TOOLS FOR COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION IN SMES

Abstract

SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) and micro-enterprises are the backbone of the EU economy. Their prosperity is a crucial factor for achieving more growth and more and better jobs in the EU. They are vital to fulfilling the goal of a more equal and productive society with higher social and economic integration. Yet they are often poorly equipped to fulfill their potential as innovators and entrepreneurs, especially in the relentless transition to a knowledge based society, both because of their diverse academic backgrounds and their lack of training. This paper summarizes work currently underway by two diverse teams across Europe to develop and roll out a suite of training and tools to enhance the innovation and collaboration capacities and capabilities of small and micro-businesses.

Keywords

• innovation
• collaboration
• SME
• management
• competition