Join our summer course:
"Building successful collaborative consortia"

What to expect

Together with like-minded innovators and entrepreneurs you will 

• Get insights in the different phases of consortium building for innovation projects
• Combine theory and practice immediately
• Hands on exercise prepares you to use the tool right away
• 7 proven strategies to find collaboration opportunities
• Find the best partners, differentiate between stakeholders, subcontractors and partners
• Learn to use diversity a a strength to build strong partnerships that deliver results
• Detect & avoid pitfalls
• Don't settle for compromise, define win win goals instead
• Adapt your interaction style for maximum effect
• Proven methodologies and tools to set up partnerships, identify consortium goals and structure your project
• Course material with exercises

Meet the trainer
Piet Verhoeve

Innovation leader with proven track record & published expert

I followed my heart when I started a PhD in engineering in the nineties, driven by a passion for innovation. It created groundbreaking insights and launched my career in the dynamic field of open innovation. My interdisciplinary approach and ability to build collaborative networks have been recognized internationally, earning me the "Best Open Innovation Practice" award twice. I've published scientific publications and books, disseminating my advanced innovation strategies to maximize changes for success.

Throughout my career, I have consistently delivered impactful results in various high-level innovation projects, collaborating with renowned organizations like imec, UGent, KU Leuven, and Televic. As CTO of Televic, I cultivated an innovation culture that created significant growth and successfully transformed the company into a multinational leader. Additionally, I have founded several successful ecosystems, including PRoF, Hangar-K, and Medvia, which unite diverse partners to achieve collective and individual objectives effectively.

Meet the trainer
Claire Van de Velde

Certified Trainer in Process Communication Model®

I have always been fascinated by human connections — how people communicate, collaborate, and thrive. After earning a PhD in Biology at Ghent University, I transitioned into science and innovation policy, advising organizations such as VLIR and VRWB and working as a policy expert for Flemish ministers. In 1995, I became Head of the Research Policy Department at Ghent University, leading project acquisition, management, and tech transfer. I played a key role in establishing the research institute IBBT (later iMinds), setting up strategic collaborations with universities and imec, and developing new project models to bridge academia, industry, and the nonprofit sector.

Today, as a senior policy advisor to the vice-rector of Ghent University, I continue to shape impactful initiatives. Alongside this role, I am a certified trainer and coach in the Process Communication Model® (PCM), helping individuals and organizations strengthen their communication skills. I have trained and coached over 1,000 professionals in Belgium and beyond, empowering them to navigate conversations effectively—even in high-stress and conflict situations. By unlocking the potential of clear and adaptive communication, I enable people to perform at their best while fostering a happier and more connected work environment.