From 1998 to 2008 INNOVA was partner of the IRC Secretariat, the Coordination Unit of the Innovation Relay Centres, grouping 71 European Innovation Centres for innovation and technology transfer in 33 countries, backed by the European Commission.

The IRC was considered as one of the largest European Networks in charge of innovation and technology transfer.

In the framework of the Network, INNOVA carried out a re-qualification activity of the IRC model and its services offer through the application of benchmarking methodologies and exchange of best practices. INNOVA also contributed to training activities for the IRCs.