The Grant

• #167 The Dissemination Activities - The Implementation Series (10)

  Episode siteIn the second half of this Implementation Series double episode on communication and dissemination, my two guests Anna-Maria Czarny and Maëla Barçon from Hanse-Parlament move into unfolding dissemination in EU-funded projects. They unpack what dissemination really means, how it differs from communication, and why the two must work in sync. The discussion includes concrete strategies like using targeted knowledge platforms, printed materials for traditional audiences, and tailoring approaches to each project’s specific socio-economic environment.The episode also explores operational best practices—from organizing partner collaboration and indicators, to planning events that meaningfully present project results. My dear guests share candid stories, such as how a single presentation led to EU-level recognition, and why printing a book might still be your best dissemination tool. The conversation wraps up with useful do's and don'ts, like staying flexible, knowing your target groups, and never sidelining dissemination just because “you’ll do it later.”Time codes:00:01:41 The dissemination activities00:28:38 Synergies00:31:50 Organisation, collaboration and formalities00:46:30 Do's and don't's00:51:41 The toughest challenge

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• #166 The Communication Activities - The Implementation Series (9)

  Episode siteIn this Implementation Series episode, I dig into the nuts and bolts of communication and dissemination within EU-funded projects. Returning guests Anna Maria Czarny and Maëla Barçon, both project managers at Hanse-Parlament, to share their hands-on experiences and practices. We discuss the essential distinctions between communication (engaging audiences and promoting activities) and dissemination (sharing project results and knowledge), while highlighting the common confusion and overlap between the two. This nice conversation covers everything from classic tools like newsletters, social media, and websites to innovative tactics such as QR code marketing, localized web pages, and dynamic visual content. The episode offers detailed advice on setting up an effective communication strategy, organizing indicators, building partner engagement, and creatively involving target audiences. It's a practical, behind-the-scenes guide for anyone implementing EU-funded projects who wants to go beyond boilerplate templates and make an actual impact.Time codes:00:01:41 Introduction00:05:50 Fly in on communication and dissemination00:14:49 Communication activities00:23:14 The communication & dissemination strategy00:32:42 Communication activities (continued)

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• #165 A Defence and Security Cluster

  Episode siteIn this episode of The Grant Podcast, I dive into the role of CENSEC, Denmark’s national cluster for defense, space, and security, and how it facilitates access to EU funding, particularly the European Defense Fund (EDF). The conversation highlights the strategic importance of clusters in fostering innovation and collaboration among SMEs, research institutions, and government bodies. We explore the shifting landscape of defense funding in Europe, especially following Denmark’s recent reintegration into EU defense collaborations, and how this has impacted the availability of resources and support structures for organizations seeking EDF funding.The discussion also underscores the historical reluctance towards defense funding in Denmark anmd Europe and how perceptions are rapidly changing in response to geopolitical threats. The episode further delves into CENSEC’s initiatives, including its EDF Best Practice Group, which brings together grant winners, EU regional offices, the Ministry of Defence, and industry players to share insights and improve Denmark’s performance in securing EDF funding. A key focus is on strategic alliances, where experienced grant recipients mentor newer entrants to enhance participation in EU-funded defense projects. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges of EDF funding—such as its tender-like complexity, stringent co-financing requirements, and the necessity for government backing in applications. Finally, we examine the evolving European defense ecosystem, the increasing role of private-sector investments in security research, and why strengthening Europe’s defense innovation capabilities is now a crucial priority.Time codes:00:01:49 Introduction00:06:32 Fly in on CENSEC and EDF00:08:51 CENSEC 00:31:37 Facilitating EDF00:59:50 Recommemdations01:03:03 The toughest challenge

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• #164 A conversation about the European university alliances

  Episode siteIn this episode of The Grant, I dive deep into the European university alliances through the lens of YUFE – Young Universities for the Future of Europe. Guest Maria-Valerie Schegk, Secretary General of the YUFE Alliance, shares her insider perspective on how YUFE evolved from a bold vision sparked by Emmanuelle Macron’s Sorbonne speech in 2017 into a vibrant, cross-border collaboration of 10 young universities. From joint degrees and lifelong learning initiatives to engaging citizens and nurturing early-career researchers, YUFE exemplifies how university alliances can drive systemic change in European higher education. The episode also unpacks the broader landscape of the 65 European university alliances, spotlighting both the opportunities and the immense amount of alliances suddenly operating. We explore the tensions between Erasmus+ funding and the growing ambition of alliances to operate across research and education. Maria-Valerie and I offer candid reflections on funding sustainability, institutional commitment, and the strategic shift from project-based thinking to long-term integration. If you're curious about the future of European universities—and how they’re navigating complex Brussels dynamics—this conversation is for you.Time codes:00:01:49 Introduction00:05:39 Fly in on university alliances00:11:29 YUFE and Its mission 00:28:27 European universities alliances 00:38:30 The research funding challenge 00:53:44 The role and impact of alliances 01:04:37 Policy and future perspectives01:16:32 The toughest challenge

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• #163 Shorts - Attention on SoMe (3): Monitor and learn

  Episode siteIn the final episode of this batch of the Communication Shorts Series, we dive into how to measure and refine social media engagement strategies. We stress that social media is an ongoing conversation rather than a one-time announcement, requiring consistent monitoring and response. The episode explores how to track audience interactions, respond to comments effectively, and use real-time data to adjust communication strategies. The hosts also address ethical considerations when prompting audience engagement, cautioning against superficial tactics that may appear disingenuous.The discussion extends to community building and conversion optimization. We emphasize the value of turning passive followers into active participants by fostering discussions and encouraging meaningful interactions. The episode also includes insights on how to respond to criticism professionally, the benefits of repurposing past content in timely contexts, and how AI tools can enhance engagement tracking. Ultimately, this episode rounds out the series by offering a strategic approach to maintaining and growing digital influence in the EU funding communication landscape.Time codes:00:02:53 Introduction to monitor, analyze and learn00:03:41 Monitor and respond00:15:22 Analyze performance

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