In total, nearly 80 support service were delivered to SMEs in Bavaria, 38 KAM services and 39 EIMC services. 50 support services could be completed successfully in 2017-2018, the remaining 27 cases will be continued in 2019.
The services supported the SMEs to increase their strategic and operational capability to innovate in an international environment, by analysing the individual situation of the SMEs with an independent and critical view from outside, by comparing it against good practices of other SMEs, and by stimulating practical improvements for the company.
Direct impact of KAM services for SME clients comprises e.g. the analysis of the role of the funded project for the general development of the company, its expansion strategy and mid-term objectives, the available resources for this scope, the strategic and commercial partnerships in place, the IPR assets, the business plan and the configuration of the core team.
Direct impact of EIMC services for SME clients comprises e.g. the improvement of their vision and innovation strategy, of their focus on new markets, products or services, of their idea generation and idea management, of their knowledge management, of their interaction with external partners or of their innovation project processes. From these direct improvements of their innovation management, the SME clients finally expect a better position on the markets and an increase of profitability and growth.
Synergies were utilised intensively with EU COSME activities. The KAM and EIMC services were fully integrated in the Enterprise Europe Network’s service portfolio, namely the provision of advisory and partnering services. This included the combination of different services, e.g. identification of high potential SMEs and projects, signposting to the H2020 SME Instrument or alternative funding opportunities, mentoring during innovation projects, facilitating cooperation with third parties etc.
