Workshop “CZARMA REGON December 2025: Knowledge Valorisation” Connected Research, Business, and Public Administration

Prague, 3 December 2025 – In cooperation between CZARMA and the Prague University of Economics and Business (VŠE), another meeting in the CZARMA REGON series took place both on-site at VŠE and via online stream. This time, the session focused on knowledge valorisation, with special attention to the field of social sciences and humanities. The aim of the workshop was to show how research results can be translated more effectively into practice—whether in the business environment or in public policymaking—and what role research managers play in this process.

The event attracted representatives of research organisations, project managers, knowledge transfer specialists, and public administration professionals, who discussed specific tools and examples of how to strengthen the societal impact of research.

Speakers included:

• Alfred Radauer (IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences)
  He presented the European approach to the shift “from technology transfer to knowledge valorisation” and outlined the current situation in Austria. Using concrete examples, he demonstrated how to systematically support the use of research results across disciplines—including the social sciences and humanities—and what competencies are needed at both the institutional and individual levels. Alfred also shared with the Czech community a link to the website of the Austrian national contact point for intellectual property, where templates for IP agreements such as NDAs or transfer contracts can be found.
• Zdeněk Vondra and Martin Pělucha (Prague University of Economics and Business)
  They focused on examples of knowledge transfer into practice and public administration. Using cases from regional development, public policy, and marketing, they illustrated how results of social science research can inform decision-making processes, contribute to “fair” policies, and generate real impact for the wider public. They also emphasized the importance of long-term cooperation between academia, public institutions, and business partners.
• Jana Lachmann (UNICO, Horizon Europe project widerAdvance Facility)
  She introduced specific support opportunities available for researchers and project managers in the areas of communication, dissemination, and exploitation of European project results. Participants learned about the tools and services offered within widerAdvance—ranging from individual consultancy and communication strategy development to assistance with exploitation planning—all aimed at increasing the visibility, accessibility, and long-term impact of EU-funded projects. The next application round opens on 31 January 2026!

The subsequent discussion focused on identifying the best first steps for those who are new to knowledge valorisation, especially in the social sciences and humanities. Participants agreed that the foundation lies in contacts—being visible, actively engaging in relevant networks, and building relationships with people and organisations that can be key to applying research results in practice.

It was also noted that it is useful to approach valorisation with a certain “business mindset.” It cannot be done as something “extra”; it needs clear prioritisation. Teams should think carefully about where it makes the most sense to start and ensure they have the capacity to pursue these activities. Only then can more systematic approaches to knowledge transfer and research impact be developed.

Presentations from the event and additional materials are available on the CZARMA REGON website.

About CZARMA REGON

CZARMA REGON is a regular event organised by the Czech Association of Research Managers and Administrators. It continues the long-standing tradition of monthly meetings of research organisations’ grant and project office representatives, held every first Wednesday of the month since 2011.