The FabSpace 2.0 project (the open-innovation network for geodata-based innovation - by leveraging Space data in particular, in universities 2.0), funded by European Union under the Horizon Programme, aims at making universities open innovation centres for their region and improving their contribution to the socio-economic and environmental performance of societies. In order to achieve these general objectives, the FabSpace 2.0 project focuses on Earth observation data, an area with high expected socio-economic impact. In this context the universities involved in the project must endorse a new role beyond knowledge providers: co-creators of innovations. This does not mean that they will replace businesses and give up basic research, but that they collaborate with businesses to tackle market challenges and capitalize on opportunities.