SME UNIVERSITY COLLABORATION – A ROADMAP TO SUCCESS

Abstract

The paper presents the most important results on a methodology of collaboration between universities and SMEs. The SUPORT project examines the current knowledge and technology transfer scenarios between Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs) and Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) in six different regions of Europe (Ireland, UK, France, Germany, Poland and Spain). Based on these studies the project developed resources (roadmaps, training courses, on-line materials) to enable SMEs to break down barriers and gain access to dormant research at HEIs. Universities are facilitated to find outlets for current and previous research, making them more responsive to current market needs. Based on these results the paper is indicated graphical roadmaps to guide participants in collaboration projects – one map specifically for HEI personnel and another for SMEs. These road maps are designed as ‘aides memoire’ for researchers and owner/managers as they embark upon, and deliver collaboration projects.

Keywords

• SME
• University
• SUPORT
• Collaboration
• Roadmap