Strengthening Russian business ties with Europe
Russian SMEs can play an important role in contributing to the knowledge economy of Europe and the world. By helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Russia to improve their innovation capabilities and networking skills, the EU has created a powerful business and research ally in its eastern neighbour. The EU-funded project 'Enhancing Russian SME collaboration and business development through communities of practice' (Rusmeco) aimed to strengthen Russia's SMEs by providing these businesses with concepts and knowledge that will render them more competitive, both locally and globally. It achieved its goals by setting up a Community of Practice (CoP) on Innovation Management in between Moscow, St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg. The Rusmeco CoP profited from regional face-to-face meetings and trainings. The cross-regional exchange of experiences and knowledge was enabled by an online portal that offered online events, training content and collaboration services. As a result, Rusmeco has provided the basis for a stronger collaboration of Russian SMEs with European partners by enhancing their innovation and networking capabilities and creating a strong cross-regional community.
