CO-VALUE took centre stage at the launch of the REINFORCING Insights series with an online event focused on Citizen Engagement in Knowledge Valorisation. Organised by the REINFORCING project, the session highlighted the essential role of citizens in turning research outcomes into societal impact, promoting more inclusive and responsible innovation.

Marzia Mazzonetto, CO-VALUE coordinator from Stickydot, moderated the discussion and shared practical insights from the project. Angela Simone of Fondazione Giannino Bassetti introduced the concept of Open Responsible Research and Innovation (ORRI), encouraging participants to explore new funding opportunities within REINFORCING’s cascade calls.

The European Commission’s Iphigenia Pottaki (DG RTD) contributed a policy perspective, outlining the strategic importance of integrating citizens into innovation ecosystems and providing guidance on current EU-level initiatives.

Esteban Pelayo, CEO of Alicante Science Park and CO-VALUE partner, presented the project’s local implementation in Alicante. He highlighted how citizen co-creation is being embedded into innovation processes, generating real benefits for both the community and participating companies.

This event marked the first in a new REINFORCING Insights series aimed at exchanging best practices and advancing Open and Responsible Research and Innovation across Europe.