WP 0 Integration of the action into the EEN general services
The action is closely integrated in the general services of EEN Norway. Both the KAM and EIMC advisers deliver the full range of Network services and all EEN advisers promote the action to potential clients in their own region.
The progress and process of the action is discussed at the weekly common network meeting held via VR every Tuesday, updating all EEN advisers to the current status of the services.
WP1 Implementation of KAM services for the beneficiaries of the SME instrument
Two Norwegian SME instrument projects were given the go-ahead after the June 2014 cut off, i.e. in time for implementation to start in 2014. The first was given the starting date 1 October, the second 1 December. Naturally, only two service packages could be started. After the results were published the beneficiaries were divided between the two Key Account Managers. Contact was established immediately after the Commission had given the green light in form of letters of notification to the EEN coordinator dated 22 October and 24 November respectively.
As regards the implementation of KAM services the objective was threefold:
1. To identify weaknesses in the innovation capacities of the beneficiary that hinder the realization of growth.
2. To identify suitable coaches
3. To accompany the beneficiary through the SME instrument.
Company 1
Initial contact: Contact was established by phone and the Key Account Manager explained the services available and the process to follow, received a first briefing on the project and started the preparation for the first meeting and the gap analysis. 0.5 day.
Analysis: For the first company an analysis was carried out using the Osterwalder Business Canvas method and concrete needs when it comes to the realization of the phase 1 project and enabling the company for the next phase. The gap analysis was conducted mid-December. Due to a busy schedule the company was not available earlier. The Osterwalder method was used and the company’s needs were identified as described in the case tracker. The company did not reach a conclusion regarding the use of or selection of coach before the end of the year. 1 day in total.
Company 2
Initial contact: Contact was established by phone and the Key Account Manager explained the services available and the process to follow, received a first briefing on the project and concluded the preparation for the first meeting and the gap analysis. Preparations for the use of the Osterwalder, Life-cycle and the business innovation tree were made. 1 day.
WP 2 Implementation of EIMC services
Following the initial training organized by the IMProve Academy, the innovation specialists set out to define the target group in concrete terms. Applicants to Horizon 2020 projects in need of enhancing their innovation competence and capacity were seen as key targets. These companies were also seen as highly motivated for IMProve and EIMC services. In this first stage, three existing and well-known clients of Innovation Norway were selected, both SMEs with growth potential.
Analysis: A gap analysis based on the IMProve tool was carried out in the selected companies and draft action plans were made.
Challenges: The demand for advisory and support services regarding the SME instrument and Horizon 2020 in general increased dramatically in the autumn. It was necessary to give priority to those cases. Little time and resources were left to proactive mobilizing of SMEs to EIMC services. Therefore only three EIMC packages were started. None of them were finalised during 2014. The innovation specialists have also identified a lack of relevant tools to be used after the main analysis has been completed. There is a need, for instance, for tools for generating new ideas, improving the innovation culture among other. However, the processes are well underway. Appr. 10 days in total.
WP 3 Project management and quality assurance of the project
The management and quality assurance of the action is carried out by the EEN Coordinator and the SME NCP, who are closely monitoring the action and supporting the KAM and EIMC advisers in their work. Establishing a joint understanding of processes, tools and sevices as such are important elements. It has also been important to ensure a strong link between WP 0 and WP 3.
