The Western Balkans Innovation Vouchers pilot programme, part of the POLICY ANSWERS project, has been launched to foster partnerships and knowledge exchange between small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and public research institutions across the Western Balkans (WB). This initiative represents a strategic effort to enhance research and innovation activities in the region, ultimately contributing to economic growth and the green and digital transition.
Launch and Application Details
Announced on April 12, 2024, the call for applications is open until June 26, 2024, at 16:00. The programme specifically targets SMEs operating within the Western Balkans, while public research institutions will act as service providers. An essential criterion is that the beneficiary SME and the service provider must come from different WB economies for each application, ensuring cross-border collaboration.
Incentive Structure
The innovation vouchers provide a straightforward financial incentive, covering a portion of the costs for services rendered by public research institutions to SMEs. This financial support is intended to lower the barriers for SMEs to access advanced research capabilities and expertise, promoting the development of new products, services, and technologies.
Objectives and Impact
The pilot programme aims to:
- Stimulate research and innovation activities among SMEs in the Western Balkans.
- Foster the development of innovative products, services, and technologies.
- Bolster regional economic growth.
- Contribute to the green and digital transition of the WB economies.
By facilitating these partnerships, the programme not only enhances the innovation capabilities of SMEs but also strengthens the research ecosystem in the region, promoting a culture of collaboration and knowledge sharing.
About POLICY ANSWERS
POLICY ANSWERS is dedicated to enhancing research and innovation (R&I) policy and governance systems in the Western Balkans. It also addresses aspects of education, culture, youth, and sports, supporting policy coordination within the EU-WB cooperation framework. The project aims to boost the Western Balkans’ potential for participating in regional and multilateral R&I activities, promoting regional cooperation and networking.
Application Process and Support
Detailed information about the application process, criteria, and evaluation can be found on the Call page and in the Guide for Applicants. SMEs interested in applying for the vouchers are encouraged to review these resources thoroughly to ensure their applications meet all necessary requirements.
For any questions related to the application process, applicants can contact FITD via email at [email protected].
This initiative presents a unique opportunity for SMEs in the Western Balkans to leverage public research expertise to drive innovation, contributing significantly to the region’s sustainable development and economic resilience.
