Suport Project

What is the Aim of Support?

The aim of SUPORT is to develop resources which can help SMEs to break down barriers and gain access to under-exploited research in HEIs and to help universities to find outlets for their previous research, making them more aware of marketing needs.

The project will:

 Identify the barriers that SMEs face when trying to access HEI research

• Identify the barriers & training needs that HEI staff experience when trying to access and engage with SMEs

• Design & produce a DVD training course for delivery to SMEs and HEI students

• Design & produce a complementary web-site, directly targeting SMEs

• Pilot test a training resource with target users

• Promote this resource to encourage uptake

• Carry out an evaluation of the project to feedback into future policy

As a result:

• The barriers entrepreneurs & HEIs face in six EU countries when trying engage with each other will be mapped and disseminated to stakeholders in those jurisdictions as well as the European Commission.

• Entrepreneurs will be provided with the specific skills/knowledge which can help them to innovate.

• HEI staff will gain a deeper understanding of how SMEs function.

• SME access to the course will be encouraged

• There will be a network of HEIs sharing experience of working with SMEs to promote innovation.