Sport-IE: This is how Cologne strengthens European sports science until 2030!

Sport-IE: This is how Cologne strengthens European sports science until 2030!

The German Sport University Cologne is now part of the innovative “Sport-IE” project, which is funded by the EIT Higher Education Initiative. This project is a key part of the EU funding program Horizon Europe and aims to significantly increase innovation in sports science across Europe by 2030. Loud dshs-koeln.de the project will promote physical activity and sporting activity among the population.

A central goal of Sport-IE is to strengthen entrepreneurial skills in sports science. The initiators particularly want to help students and scientists acquire skills in developing ideas, starting a business and protecting intellectual property. This is intended not only to increase the employability of graduates, but also to address current social challenges, such as combating a lack of exercise and chronic diseases.

Strategic measures

In order to achieve these goals, the project includes a variety of measures. These include training and mentoring programs that are developed together with companies, public institutions and NGOs. This proactive approach aims to create a European platform for the exchange of best practices. The use of eit-hei.eu highlights the need to improve institutional capacity and overcome barriers to engagement to increase innovation in sport science universities (SSHEIs).

The project, which starts in April 2025 and runs for two years, is financed with a budget of 1.34 million euros. The German Sport University brings its expertise in exercise, health and education to the project. Dr. Anja Chevalier is the contact person at the German Sport University for this project and can be reached at the email address a.chevalier@dshs-koeln.de or by telephone at +49 221 4982-6480.

Market opportunities and social responsibility

Another important aspect of the Sport IE project is capitalizing on market opportunities in the sports and healthcare industries. The market for sports performance, training clothing and fitness centers is estimated to be worth around 317 billion euros by 2024. By promoting entrepreneurial thinking, those responsible for the project want to ensure that students are not only equipped with theoretical knowledge, but also learn practical skills that are relevant to the job market.

In addition, a focus is placed on the integration of vulnerable population groups. The project aims to support people with disabilities, older people and disadvantaged communities. The aim is to reduce health inequalities and promote the social and economic benefits of active lifestyles.

In summary, the Sport IE project shows how academic institutions can play a significant role in keeping society healthy while pursuing innovative approaches to sport science. Strategic collaboration between academic and non-academic partners can have a significant impact on the future of sport science education and physical activity in Europe.