KAM Activities and results:
As a result of the KAM activity in 2014, a needs analysis was carried out with each of the 3 successful Scottish SME instrument beneficiaries to determine areas of focus for coaching. All three SME Instrument beneficiaries have selected coaches and are embarking on coacing activities.
Description of Work performed:
SME Instrument beneficiaries from June 2014 cut off date were assigned to their KAMs within the Enterprise Europe Network Scotland team in October 2014, following SME contract signature. All 3 beneficiaries were based in the central belt of Scotland and therefore under the geographic remit of Scottish Enterprise.
The coordinator of Enterprise Europe Network Scotland, once receiving confirmation from EASME, assigned a KAM to each of the beneficiaries: KAMs were matched according to sectoral expertise and/or previous interaction with the company. After an initial phone call to the SME to introduce the KAM and coaching service, meetings were set up and a needs analysis was carried out to determine areas of focus for coaching. On the back of this discussion, The KAM drew up a list of potential suitable coaches. The SMEs were then helped to select a coach that met their requirements and the KAM qualified the coach. The KAM made the appropriate introductions, set out the role of the coach and KAM in supporting the company going forward.
Innovation Management Capacity building and results:
13 SMES were supported under this action line, all off whom undertook a supported IMPROVE assessment and all based in the Scottish Enterprise region.
SMEs targeted for the Innovation Management Capacity Service and supported IMPROVE assessment were selected by their Scottish Enterprise account managers as those with innovation and growth ambition, but with challenges in their innovation processes and strategies. All SMES had applied and/or received related grants and support services from SE and were hence known to them. The 13 SMES undertaking the Improve assessment all identified areas of their innovation management and processes on which to concentrate. These companies are now engaged with Scottish Enterprise/Enterprise Europe Network Scotland staff to help address the areas concerned.
