BiUniCrowd is the University of Milano-Bicocca knowledge valorisation case study that received the highest assessment from ANVUR. In the evaluation of the case studies submitted for the 2020–2024 Research Quality Assessment, the University’s crowdfunding programme scored 39 points out of 40, placing it in Class A – Exceptional, the highest level available.
The result forms part of an overall positive assessment of the University of Milano-Bicocca’s knowledge valorisation activities: seven further case studies were placed in Class B – Excellent, bringing the total number of initiatives in the two highest assessment categories to eight.
The following received a Class B rating: Bicocca for children in vulnerable contexts, Bicocca for Global Health, initiatives to raise awareness of STEM subjects in schools, the Third Mission activities of the University Prison Education Centre, the ADV – Against Domestic Violence Training Project, support desks for populations affected by the pandemic and UniForYourEyes.
BiUniCrowd: a model recognised beyond the University
In the case of BiUniCrowd, ANVUR highlighted the programme’s ability to generate a concrete and measurable impact. The initiative involved more than 2,500 donors and raised €265,000 through 22 campaigns, with most contributions coming from individuals and organisations outside the University. The supported projects generated social, educational and environmental benefits, promoting inclusion, innovation and academic entrepreneurship.
The assessment also emphasised the programme’s strategic relevance, as it helps diversify funding sources and promotes a culture of academic entrepreneurship. ANVUR identified BiUniCrowd as a European best practice and a model for other Italian universities, also because of its media coverage and participation in international conferences.
The ability to transform support for the campaigns into subsequent results was also appreciated: patents, awards, start-ups, spin-offs and further funding, together with the development of entrepreneurial and communication skills.
From global health to social inclusion
The seven cases placed in Class B demonstrate the variety of areas in which the University of Milano-Bicocca’s knowledge valorisation activities produce an impact.
Bicocca for Global Health, with 35 points, was recognised for its ability to improve the quality of care, reduce health inequalities and strengthen local communities through training, research and international cooperation activities.
Bicocca for children in vulnerable contexts received 34 points for its recognised social impact, ranging from the prevention of early school leaving to the integration of vulnerable children, also thanks to collaboration with the Municipality of Milan and Third Sector organisations.
The initiatives to raise awareness of STEM subjects in schools, with 33 points, were positively assessed for their ability to reach approximately 4,000 students and teachers and to address the gender gap in scientific disciplines through innovative methods and female role models.
The Third Mission activities of the University Prison Education Centre, with 32.5 points, demonstrated a transformative social and cultural impact through activities ranging from legal clinics to prison staff training and projects supporting the wellbeing of incarcerated people.
Training, research and engagement with the local community
The ADV – Against Domestic Violence Training Project, with 35 points, was recognised for its ability to create a network of professionals and promote a more integrated approach among universities, practitioners and public bodies in preventing violence.
The support desks for populations affected by the pandemic, with 32.5 points, showed how the University can become a point of reference during an emergency by connecting academic expertise with professional practice and promoting initiatives to support the wellbeing of the entire community.
Finally, UniForYourEyes, with 33.5 points, was positively assessed for the social impact generated through free optometric examinations and the distribution of glasses to people experiencing financial hardship, as well as for the educational and professional benefits provided to students.
Overall, the assessment therefore presents a wide-ranging picture of the University of Milano-Bicocca’s knowledge valorisation activities: from research to education, from health to inclusion, and from engagement with schools and the local community to international cooperation, with eight cases placed in the two highest assessment categories.
Within this framework, BiUniCrowd received the highest score, but the results of the other projects demonstrate the University’s broader ability to transform knowledge, expertise and research into initiatives with a tangible impact on society.