This booklet provides a comprehensive introduction to the origins, evolution, and future outlook of the Living Lab movement. It has been created to guide readers through the development of Living Labs over the years and highlight the path ahead. While earlier publications, such as the “ENoLL & Its Community” booklet from 2014, covered certain aspects of Living Labs, this publication is the first to focus solely on the full trajectory of the movement—from its roots to the dynamic, expanding ecosystem it represents today.

In recent years, the ENoLL Members Catalogue has focused on showcasing the community aspect of Living Labs, but there has been no single, consolidated publication devoted to exploring the historical background and future ambitions of this ever- growing movement. Over the past decade, both Living Lab research and practice have thrived. Certain foundational principles have converged, creating a shared framework for the movement, while other aspects, such as specific application domains, have diversified, demonstrating the adaptability of Living Labs to a wide range of challenges and contexts. 

As deeply rooted entities within their respective environments, LivingLabs are inherently shaped by their unique surroundings and networks of stakeholders. This connection makes them responsive to change and, in many instances, powerful drivers of positive transformation. By fostering more sustainable and desirable futures, Living Labs play an active role in shaping the course of innovation, amplifying their impact and societal relevance.

This booklet is envisioned as a living document, evolving in step with the Living Lab movement. Developed from existing research, documentation, and practical experiences, it provides a reflection on the history and policies that have supported Living Labs, a snapshot of the current landscape, and a forward-looking perspective on emerging opportunities and challenges. Regular updates and contributions are planned to ensure that this publication remains relevant and aligned with the latest advancements in the Living Lab community.

As part of ENoLL’s communication materials, this booklet is intended for a broad audience. It aims to be a valuable resource for professionals, institutions, and individuals with an interest in open and user-centred innovation, innovation management, policy development, and social and territorial innovation. Whether the reader is a researcher, policy-maker, business leader, or simply someone with a passion for innovative solutions, this booklet is designed to inform, inspire, and offer guidance on the transformative impact of Living Labs.