As part of the Sustainability Innovation Campus (ICN), the project provides scientific support for and formative evaluation of ICN projects, with the aim of increasing the quality, impact, and visibility of excellent transdisciplinary and transformative sustainability research in the Upper Rhine region. The accompanying research creates the framework for a systematic reflection on ICN projects, further developing their methodologies and making their results usable for science, practice, and the innovation ecosystem.

The accompanying project pursues two main objectives, which are intended to strengthen both the funded projects and the ICN as a whole. These are:

1. Formative and ex-post evaluations of processes and impacts of the funded projects: Projects are assessed using defined criteria to determine whether they are having an impact at an early stage and whether their potential impact is identifiable and measurable. For the evaluation, the researchers review project documents, conduct interviews, and prepare case study reports, which are then analyzed comparatively. Through close project monitoring, joint reflection, and further development, these projects are to be optimally aligned with the ICN’s sustainability goals. In addition, systematic documentation in a database creates a robust knowledge base that helps consolidate and compare findings and promotes learning across projects and beyond.
2. Methodological support for funded projects (capacity building): To strengthen competencies in excellent transdisciplinary and transformative sustainability research, consultation meetings and training formats are offered to participating researchers at all career stages.

A structured reporting system on the progress of ICN projects ensures transparency for ICN management and funding institutions and provides an overview of the ICN project landscape. 

The accompanying project runs from November 2025 to November 2026 and is designed to contribute to excellent transdisciplinary sustainability research in the Upper Rhine region over the long term, securing and enhancing the innovative strength and effectiveness of the ICN as a driver of economic and social transformation. ITAS has taken on the role of co-project lead on behalf of KIT, cooperating closely with the Transformational Sustainability Science Group at the University of Freiburg.

The Sustainability Innovation Campus (ICN) is a joint initiative of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and the University of Freiburg. As an interface between science and practice, it supports transdisciplinary research, development, and education projects on sustainability transformation and initiates corresponding innovation ecosystems. Key topics include climate protection, resource conservation, and well-being. Further information on the Sustainability Innovation Campus and the accompanying research can be found on the project website (in German).

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