The Innovation Catalyst methodology is a structured approach designed to foster innovation within organizations and teams. It focuses on identifying strategic challenges, generating creative ideas, and transforming them into practical solutions through iterative and collaborative processes. Key players in this methodology are the Innovation Catalysts, who act as change facilitators, promoting a culture of innovation and guiding teams in adopting tools, techniques, and an innovative mindset.
In the BEST project, we will apply this methodology, developed by the Kersnikova Institute with the support of partners in the DIVA project, which was initially aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By training SME representatives for the Catalyst role, participants acquire essential skills to tackle future challenges, such as:
- Developing innovative thinking and art-thinking;
- Digital skills for service marketing and development;
- Understanding opportunities from the transition to a low-carbon society;
- Building connections and networks with organizations that share similar or complementary goals.

Goals of the BEST Project
The project aims to strengthen the tourism and cultural sectors in the program area, enabling faster recovery and improving resilience to external factors such as pandemics or environmental disasters. By using the Innovation Catalyst methodology, we will deliver training and education to enhance the innovative and creative skills of stakeholders.
One of the methodology's key aspects is linking the creative sector with other fields (private, public, and non-governmental sectors) to increase their innovative potential in the context of the digital and green transition. This approach has significant potential for transfer to new target groups and areas beyond the partnership.
Flexibility and Transferability of the Method
The Innovation Catalyst methodology is not tied to a specific sector or organizational form. It can be applied across various economic activities, public institutions, service providers, and non-governmental organizations. It is also easily transferable to geographic areas outside the project partnership.
The innovative approaches brought by this method are already used in globally recognized research laboratories such as MIT, Nokia Lab, and Google AI. The methodology stands out for developing modern solutions that are socially responsible and geared toward sustainable growth.
Over time, the Innovation Catalyst has the potential to gain global prominence, much like the service design method, as it offers valuable solutions for addressing contemporary challenges with a visionary approach.