Support for transnational cooperation between craft firms and small enterprises
Within the framework of the multiannual action programme for small and medium-sized enterprises, including craft firms, the European Commission has published a call for tender to implement a test programme intended to support pilot cooperation projects. These would help craft firms and small enterprises form durable partnerships with enterprises in other states of the European Economic Area (EEA). It has become evident that transnational cooperation between craft firms and small enterprises in the EEA is an effective way for these enterprises to widen their knowledge of markets in other states, explore new potential markets and improve their economic competence through contacts with different business practices. It is, however, very difficult for these companies, on their own, to find satisfactory partners and establish lasting economic relationships with them. Most of the time it is necessary for these companies to consult accompanying organizations for advice and support. The aim of the test programme is to help these enterprises exploit the advantages of the single European market with the establishment of partnerships supported by accompanying organizations. The call for tender therefore addresses organizations with sound experience in the field of consultancy and guiding of craft firms and small enterprises. They must be able to prove their competence in the organization of transnational cooperation and support for enterprises. Transnational cooperation between enterprises may involve the joint production of goods and services, and distribution and research into new markets. The financial contribution comprises a backing for consultancy and accompanying organizations for the preparation and implementation of pilot transnational cooperation projects between enterprises. Each pilot project must involve enterprises and organizations in at least two states. The European Commission will be able to cover up to 50% of the total costs of each accepted pilot project, up to a maximum of ECU 20,000. European Commission support will depend on the success of the project. Each project is to comprise three phases: - Informing enterprises and preparing meetings between enterprises from various states: selection of participants, coordination of work and meetings between experts from accompanying organizations in the states involved; - Organizing meetings between selected enterprises assisted by experts from accompanying organizations; - Implementation of cooperation projects and support for companies: follow-up of meetings, selection of appropriate partners, assistance in translations, preparation of contracts, etc. A report summarizing and analysing the results obtained will be requested. For further information, please contact: European Commission Directorate-General for Enterprise Policy, Distributive Trades, Tourism and Cooperatives (DG XXIII) Unit B/3 "Improvement of conditions for enterprise and market access" 200 rue de la Loi (AN80) B-1049 Brussels Fax +32-2-2952154 Proposals must be sent to: European Commission Directorate-General XXIII/B 200 rue de la Loi (AN80 4/44) B-1049 Brussels