Imagine if… 

… there was a dynamic network of agile, efficient smaller-sized universities across different European regions that serve as game-changers and role models for their staff and students, the surrounding communities and the development of innovative ecosystems. Based on this bold vision, the Smaller Universities Network for Regional Innovative and Sustainable Evolution (SUNRISE) sets out to promote impactful changes in rural, remote, maritime… areas: 

To motivate and equip university staff to act as ambassadors for knowledge development with institutional and associated partners and by actively including students; 

To facilitate the new generations of students to become committed, responsible, and responsive professionals and citizens. Students, professionals and citizens are conscious of the positive or negative impact of their decisions and actions. We aim to educate future problem-solvers dedicated to promoting human welfare; 

To enable the universities of the SUNRISE network to connect, through approaches to complementarity and by developing new interdisciplinary links; 

To empower communities within the regional innovation ecosystems where these universities are immersed, embedding European values with democracy at the core of all actions; 

Establish connections with other EU and non-EU regions, bringing the world to our regions; 

To provide effective regional solutions to boost the Triple Transition for greener, more digital and social living. 

The SUNRISE alliance will enhance and provide focus to the mission of our universities, boosting our rankings and our reputations, thus attracting more students. The alliance aims to revitalise and contribute to local economies, by embracing a European perspective and by fostering (further) sustainable/circular practices: Thinking globally and acting locally.