In this episode of Beyond StArtups, we’re joined by João Leitão, Vice-Rector of the University of Beira Interior and Associate Professor of Economics, to discuss how the IMPACTWHEEL project is helping universities across Europe move beyond traditional academic models to create measurable societal and entrepreneurial impact.

IMPACTWHEEL is a €1.34M project running from 2025–2027, bringing together 10 institutions across Portugal, Slovakia, the United Kingdom, Spain, North Macedonia, Italy, and Latvia. The initiative has already delivered training and mentoring for around 800 students and staff, created new partnerships and support structures, and supported 13 startups.

Together, we explore how IMPACTWHEEL is strengthening innovation ecosystems by connecting students, researchers, startups, and university leadership through a m ...