What role is there for SMEs in R&D projects?

Aiming at new and breakthrough technologies is part of the European Commission’s programme to boost competitiveness, create jobs and support growth in Europe. The new EC funding programmes and directives are putting a strong emphasis on areas of research and innovation with a strong industrial dimension, where mastering new technological opportunities will enable and drive innovation, and SMEs are key to this vision. But how can SMEs collaborate with high-level researchers on developing new technologies and bringing them to market?

Meet the Tyndall Researchers!

The Enterprise Europe Network in Cork is helping local SMEs to engage with some of the top researchers in the region to learn more about potential opportunities for collaboration.  On Tuesday 31st March, Kieran Drain, CEO of Tyndall National Institute, will be speaking at a Cork Chamber breakfast briefing.  Following the briefing, the Enterprise Europe Network will be hosting an interactive session with some of the Tyndall research staff, to outline how SMEs can engage with the Tyndall on R&D and EU projects.  The session will include practical tips on how to engage with the Tyndall, an overview of some current projects, and examples of past projects which given rise to successful research-SME collaborations. This session is particularly aimed at SMEs with interest/expertise in the areas of Food, Agri and Environment.

Speakers and themes will include the following:

- How SMEs can engage in EU projects with Tyndall (Giorgos Fagas)

- Health, Food/Agri including med tech, animal health, point-of-care diagnostics (Alan O’Riordan)

- Food/Agri including process analytics, bio-sensing – milk (Karen Twomey)

- Environment including water treatment, eco-India project (Aidan Quinn)

- Gate One - Access for SMEs (Tom Healy)

The session will last about one hour.  To book click here or contact Katherine@corkchamber.ie for more information.