NRW.Europa2

ended

The NRW.Europa2 project is coordinated by ZENIT in a consortium with two partners: NRW.BANK and NRW.International. It covers the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NUTS 1). The project provides integrated, growth-oriented business support services in the areas of internationalization (EU and beyond) and innovation from one source (no-wrong-door concept), especially to the primary target group of SMEs. Further target groups are HEI, research institutes and multipliers. This is in line with the COSME programme and other EU, national and regional policies and priorities. The Work Programme is implemented by qualified and experienced staff with efficient allocation of budget. Services are needs-based, customized and categorized in Work Packages. Activities include information and advice services, facilitation of cross-border partnerships, provision of a communication channel between SMEs and the European Commission (feedback), access to finance and funding, and promotion of resource efficiency. Activities related to innovation support are closely linked to the innovation management support services provided in the H2020-funded part of EEN. The above-mentioned activities are flanked by stringent project management as well as extensive communication and PR work in order to present the EEN as a single brand and increase visibility. The project fosters Network building, e.g. by participation in Sector Groups. NRW.Europa2 aims to generate as much impact and value added for SMEs as possible. These are measured through several mechanisms (e.g. PIs) and achievements are documented, reported and fed into a process of continuous improvement (quality control). NRW.Europa2’s activities are supported by the partners’ host organisations and regional ministries. The project is embedded in the regional business support landscape and creates synergies. A supporting Stakeholder Network of some 60 regional and sectoral players facilitates access to clients and proximity to SMEs.