FOSTERING THE INNOVATION CAPACITY OF SMES BY ESTABLISHING A CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE AND DEVELOPMENT OF RELATED TOOLS

Abstract

The present paper introduces some of the results of the project InnoPlatform, aimed at facilitating innovation and supporting the commercialisation of innovation in SMEs in Balkan-Mediterranean area with a focus on growth and internationalization. For achieving this purpose a network of Centres of Excellence in Innovation will be established as the knowledge and expertise holders providing advice and guidance to SMEs, consultants and public actors across the region. In addition, a series of practical innovation tools, services, and guidelines to support the innovation capacity of SMEs in the region, will be designed and developed.