The innovation landscape is changing. Traditionally, the concept was dominated by STEM-centric models focused primarily on technological inventions. However, innovation is increasingly recognized as a process where value is created through the recombination of existing knowledge to address complex societal, cultural, and policy challenges. Within this framework, digital social sciences, arts, and humanities are uniquely equipped to bridge the gaps between technological advancements and social or cultural needs. By utilizing technology to innovate data use and test solutions, SSH can drive meaningful change.

The Evolution of Research Infrastructures

To fully realize this potential, contemporary SSH research infrastructures must transform into "infrastructures of engagement". This transformation fosters real-world applications of SSH knowledge. A central pillar of this effort is the development of specialized innovation centers – entities responsible for innovation management that engage diverse stakeholders in designing and testing solutions to real-world challenges. The OPERAS (Open Scholarly Communication in the European Research Area for SSH) consortium has adopted this approach by establishing its Innovation Lab as a strategic mechanism for mission-driven innovation.

Strategic Establishment and Advanced Ecosystem

As OPERAS transitions toward its legal status as a European Research Infrastructure Consortium (ERIC), the Innovation Lab will serve as its innovation center. Starting from 2026 the Lab will be hosted at the Poznań Supercomputing and Networking Center (PCSS; formerly PSNC) in Poland. This allows the Lab to leverage a world-class technical and collaboration ecosystem. Key resources available through the PCSS headquarters include:

• High-Performance Computing (HPC): Providing the power for data-intensive research.

• PIAST-AI Factory: Offering computing resources.

• HERIFORGE Excellence Hub: A dedicated space for R&D collaboration in cultural heritage.

• Living Labs and EDIHs: Facilitating direct interaction between researchers and the broader European innovation landscape.

A Specialized Two-Track Support Framework

The Lab's support structure is divided into two distinct tracks, each tailored to different aspects of applied SSH research:

1. Scholarly Communication Services: This track focuses on the scholarly publishing ecosystem. It aims to refine digital services, such as open-access workflows and discovery platforms, to enhance the quality and reuse of research.

2. SSH Impact: This track is dedicated to strengthening the applicability of research results beyond academia. It facilitates knowledge transfer between researchers and industry, NGOs, and policymakers.

Direct Support for SSH Innovators

To bridge the gap between research and application, the Lab will issue "calls for engagement" offering specialized support:

• SSH Gateway to AI Factories: Providing researchers with access to computing infrastructure and GPU resources for prototyping R&D projects.

• Data Science Support: Offering expert guidance in data-based methods to uncover insights from complex datasets.

• Service Design & Improvement: Delivering UX/UI support and software quality enhancements to improve the usability of SSH services.

Through these initiatives, the OPERAS Innovation Lab seeks to engage a community striving to maximize the societal impact of the SSH. Through this paper, we will aim to provoke discussion about the SSH community needs and adapt the Lab’s service offer.