ROCKET Reloaded

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ROCKET Reloaded is a sequel to the project “ROCKET”. Within the framework of this original project, eleven innovation projects and six feasibility studies were executed. ROCKET has also been elected as a best practice by both the European Commission (through the WATIFY program) and INTERREG Europe (KISS ME program). The mix of a number of predefined innovation projects that serve as inspiration and example, and an open part that has room and budget for new innovation projects to be defined during the program provides a strong instruments for SMEs to increase and strengthen their innovative activities. The preference in ROCKET Reloaded is given to companies that have not participated as a lead partner in any of the projects in ROCKET. Furthermore, the percentage of new partners in the open part will be higher than 40%. ROCKET Reloaded will strengthen the regional competitive advantage because of four fundamental points. 1. KETs are assigned as a key priority by the European Commission in the 2020 strategy. The key enabling technologies are economic engines and will play a significant role in innovation and job growth. 2. The involved regions all have a strong link with high-tech. Each region in the project has the KETs as a strategic priority in their Smart Specialisation Strategies. Furthermore, a contribution will be made towards the valorisation of new knowledge in these areas because of the implementation of think tanks. 3. The project builds upon earlier success. During ROCKET, a great deal of experience has been gained and there is a strong network of specialists. Excellent projects have been prepared that are now ready for further advancement. 4. There will be an active search for synergies with other INTERREG programs, such as MIND, iPro-N, Digipro, Food2020, Enerpro & D-NL HIT to maximize the gains of each European euro.

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