EC2U is a collaboration between nine European universities including each higher education institution's associated partners. The work within the alliance includes education, research, campus development, student activities, and sustainability.
Within the European alliance EC2U, nine comprehensive universities collaborate to enhance mobility, quality, and strengthened competitiveness. The work within the alliance includes education, research, campus development, and sustainability. Furthermore, various administrative processes are discussed, such as working methods and procedures to facilitate student mobility. Umeå University has been part of the EC2U alliance since 1 May 2025.
Homepage of the EC2U alliance - www.ec2u.eu
In addition to the member universities, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv (Ukraine) participates as a strategic partner in the work of EC2U.

Illustrative map of Europe showing participating countries in the EC2U alliance.
Over 500 staff, students and partners across Europe met to share ideas and discuss the future of education.
Build ideas, collaborate with peers, and develop an entrepreneurial mindset. Deadline 31 May.
Students and staff at Umeå University, as well as the general public, are welcome to watch online and vote.
All universities in the European alliance collaborate with the surrounding community by engaging several associated partners.
Umeå University's associated partners: Umeå Municipality, Region Västerbotten with Norrland University Hospital in Umeå, IKSU, Folkuniversitetet, Västerbotten's Chamber of commerce, Umeå University Holding AB and the Student Unions at Umeå University.
The work within the EC2U alliance is organised into different focus areas. Umeå University has representatives in all focus areas.
Inclusive, Engaged and Mobile EC2U Community
Digital EC2U Alliance
Good Health and Well-Being
Quality Education
Sustainable Cities and Communities
Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
EC2U Lifelong Career
EC2U Innovation Hub
Virtual Institute for Quality Education – Education Sciences
Virtual Institute for Life on Land
Virtual Institute for Materials & Methods for a Sustainable Future
The EU's initiative on European Universities alliances aims to have universities in different European countries collaborate across disciplines in deep strategic alliances to address various future issues and societal challenges. The goal is to improve the quality of European higher education and contribute to inclusion and strengthened competitiveness. Students within the alliance should be able to customise their education with courses from the different universities.
European Universities – A European Education Area by 2025 – In Swedish (uhr.se)
About the European Universities Initiative (education.ec.europa.eu)
Enhance your academic, professional & intercultural skills
• European Masters Programmes
• Campus Life
• Ambassador Programme
• Summer schools, entrepreneurial opportunities, a PhD network and much more!
Facilitate professional development, collaboration & access to a diverse network of peers and resources
• Virtual Institutes
• Joint & Local Events
• Topical Conferences and Workshops
• Joint Projects
Refining skills, fostering growth & expanding collaboration
• Cross university collaboration
Boost administrative efficiency and share best practices through successful inter-institutional partnerships.
Optimise impact by promoting knowledge exchange & fostering community engagement
• Collaboration in joint projects
Access to a dynamic network of researchers, academic staff, and stakeholders