In the case of complex and resource-intensive initiatives like citizen science projects, institutional support plays a vital role. In this section our researchers discuss the ways in which their respective institutions provided support for their projects. The researchers also explore avenues for recognising the value of citizen science projects and demonstrating the impact they have on researchers' career trajectories. Additionally, the section offers insights into how European Universities, and universities in general, can assist researchers in effectively engaging with citizens to foster their participation.

Institutional support can be critical for putting in place a citizen science project. Most of the interviewed researchers have received support from their institutions in its different forms: the institutions have provided space and equipment, helped to manage the project and the funds, ensured communication on the project, etc.

However, there is still untapped potential for institutions and university alliances to further bolster citizen science initiatives:

• Offer educational resources that guide researchers in applying for grants involving citizen engagement activities.
• Deliver training programs focused on honing project management skills
• Aggregate expertise in citizen science methodologies, creating a centralised knowledge hub for researchers
• Establish a repository of available funding sources
• Provide researchers with toolboxes on possible stakeholders and associations of citizens organised on the territory to engage citizens
• Propose tailored assistance in reaching out to local communities
• Allocate funding opportunities for experiments, allowing researchers to explore innovative research methods on a smaller scale
• Foster a network of citizen science experts, providing an opportunity for a recurrent knowledge exchange and collaboration
• Include citizen science in communication plans to make best projects known to the local community