Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are often overlooked in larger European projects. An EU-funded initiative addressed the need to boost the participation of smaller outfits in innovative collaborations within the aerospace industry.
The EU-funded SME-AERO-POWER (Empowering European aeronautical SMEs to participate in EU research) project set out to overcome this shortfall by refining proven methods of improvement in related areas of action.
Project objectives followed a strategic three-level approach in order to improve on and broaden the participation of SMEs in innovative collaborations with big industry outfits as well as in framework bids. This involved mobilisation of SMEs, coaching and self-realisation for SMEs and relevant intermediaries as well as developing competences.
Further details:
http://cordis.europa.eu