For each 31 company we have carried out need analysis, assessed their gaps and challenges. Based on the results corresponding action plans were developed. We have assisted companies with the utmost objectivity, problem-solving approach, focusing on the needs and expectations of the companies, following rules of professionalism and dedication. Also, we have assisted SMEs in all matters related to increasing sales figures and promoting exports to international markets, where synergies between COSME and H2020 were achieved.
Implementation strategy was implemented to high extent. The current situation of innovation development is still worrying, gap between science academy, research community and private sector still exist. Insufficient R&D investments, insufficient R&D results commercialized, with insufficient developed technologies to be transferred to business, all leave significant space for improvement.
As foreseen, limited innovation readiness showed in only 6 applications for Phase I, but no success stories and approved projects. Still, we believe that our success is shown in making SMEs aware of the programme and possibilities for them. Our success is that Investment Development Fund, based on our joint request, opened a special credit line for innovative projects, with favourable conditions, as to support companies with innovative growth and development potential. This could be helpful not only to SMEs being above threshold, but not funded in SME Instruments, but also to all SMEs to raise their technological readiness level, and become more competitive for both national and EU level.
Therefore, our Consortium encouraged SMEs to participate to Horizon 2020 and SME Instrument, and in particular to use the most of our EICM services. We were successful in making assessments using different innovation management tools.
All partners had very good cooperation with companies, and stable and firm cooperation with many ministries, institutions and other business support organizations.
