Cultural Heritage Research for Next-Gen Sustainable Society

This paper explores the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), focusing on Mission 4 (“Education and Research”) and the role of universities in fostering a cultural ecosystem. The study aims to understand how concepts of cultural ecosystems and university involvement apply to NextGenEU-funded projects, specifically through the case study of the extended partnership called CHANGES-Cultural Heritage Active Innovation for Next-Gen Sustainable Society, involving universities, entities, and institutions. Methodologically, content analysis is employed to scrutinize the CHANGES research proposal, focusing on the design of knowledge generation and transfer. Findings confirm universities may play a central role in shaping knowledge flows within cultural ecosystems. Initial findings underscore the significance of knowledge-driven initiatives and interdisciplinary collaboration in the cultural heritage field. Criticalities include the challenge of connecting researchers from diverse fields within a multidisciplinary framework, as well as the short timeline for achieving the mission. The complexity of the project and the need to foster cohesion among diverse stakeholders is a crucial aspect. However, the paper highlights the potential for NRRP funds to drive innovative models in cultural heritage management, with universities facilitating knowledge sharing and transfer. Future research aims to assess the ex-post impa