SPRINT regional technology advisory centres
The trend towards the increased involvement of the regions in technology policy is strengthening. This is visible in the growing number of technology transfer structures and networks such as science parks throughout the European Union. The Commission's SPRINT programme is designed to encourage the promotion and development of infrastructure for innovation and technology transfer. Regional Technology Advisory Centres (RTACs) are an important part of this development, and provide information, advice and assistance on technical matters to businesses with a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The SPRINT RTAC working group was set up in 1990 to investigate ways in which their contribution to the innovation process could be maximized. The group is composed of representatives from virtually all EU Member States. Group meetings are held in Luxembourg and receive financial and administrative support from the SPRINT programme. The output of the RTAC working group includes: - RTAC newsletter; - "WHO's WHO" directory; - Technology tools directory; - Study projects on a number of subjects including operating efficiency and company networking.