The aim of the Enterprise Europe Network is to help small and medium enterprises in developing their innovation potential and to introduce them to the possibilities of the policy of the European Commission. This new initiative of the Commission, launched in February 2008, offers companies a central location where they can seek advice and a variety of easily accessible services. The Enterprise Europe Network represents some 500 regional advisory services in 40 European countries. The new support network for enterprises will help its customers in finding business partners, especially if they want to begin operation abroad. It can arrange site visits, evaluate a company's needs, and offer advice on various issues. A reliable database links the various sponsoring organizations, which are in constant contact with each other and merge supply and demand.
SMEs receive information and tailored personalized service. The Enterprise Europe Network offers the following services:
1. Assisting companies in beginning international activities
An estimated one million European SMEs could be involved in border trade and investment. The Enterprise Europe Network will contribute to exchanges between enterprises and develop new ideas, nurture potential partnerships and stimulate firms to expand their horizons. Furthermore, the network organizes special consultation meetings where companies can find trustworthy partners. Building technology partnerships between SMEs: This is possible thanks to innovation transfer. It is not only a further step towards internationalization, but also an additional way to profit from investments in research. The network is assisting SMEs in identifying partners and making contractual arrangements with them.
2. Encouraging innovation, new products and business opportunities in the Internal Market
The network advises SMEs on technical issues, such as relating to intellectual property rights, standards and EU legislation. Thus, in a first step a way is paved to establish themselves in neighboring markets. Promoting innovation: The Enterprise Europe Network encourages SMEs to become more innovative as the exchange of research results can provide the impetus for new ideas and possibilities. Thus, for example, cooperation with clusters is improved since different innovation activities are more concentrated. Access to innovative technologies will help SMEs face global competition.
3. Assistance in accessing EU projects and funding opportunities
For companies, universities and research institutions in Berlin and Brandenburg, the 7th research framework offers excellent opportunities to increase market potential and competitive advantages through co-operation with excellent partners in Europe.
4. Collection of feedback for decision makers
The Enterprise Europe Network, as two-way communication channel, will connect entrepreneurs and EU decision-makers and enable the exchange of ideas. The network ensures that the policies and initiatives of the Commission are useful for SMEs and do not create unnecessary bureaucracy.
Sponsoring organizations for the Enterprise Europe Network in the capital region Berlin-Brandenburg are: the TSB Innovation Agency Berlin GmbH, Berlin Partner GmbH,Future Agency Brandenburg GmbH, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Frankfurt (Oder).
