The project led by the Polytechnic of Porto was one of those selected to be part of the 24 European Universities - interuniversities where students, collaborators and researchers can circulate without barriers, - an initiative launched by the European Commission to foster cooperation between Higher Education Institutions in the European Union (EU).

Named Advanced Technology Higher Education Network (ATHENA), the project aims to respond to the current and future challenges of a transnational, inclusive, innovative education, permanently aligned with the needs of the global market, addressing social and environmental challenges, as well as the priorities of European research.