Early 2020

Key objective: To strengthen the translational (proof of concept) capacities of research organisations and SMEs in the Western Balkans.

Project summary: The JRC will be providing technical and scientific support to Directorate-General Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations in the management and execution of an action funded under the IPA II Multi-country Action Programme 2018, focused on strengthening the translational (proof of concept) capacities of research organisations and SMEs in the Western Balkans.

This new initiative aims to facilitate the validation (prototype, demonstrator, etc.) and explore avenues for the commercialisation of technologies developed within Public Research Organisations (PROs) and SMEs in the Western Balkans. It will complement the existing EU4TECH action by providing a set of specific services that will enable local entrepreneurs and researchers to gain practical experience in technology transfer and maximise the potential of successful technology transfer deals in the region.

The programme aims to increase the capacity of researchers and intermediaries to identify a robust route to market and build a strong commercialisation strategy. The action will deliver concrete plans for supporting selected commercialisation projects in the Western Balkans. This will assist in unlocking the economic and social benefits of research generated in universities and research centres by transforming it into actual services and products leading to the creation of new companies and employment opportunities and to an increase in economic growth locally and regionally. 

Contact: Elena Andonova and Stoyan Kaymaktchiyski, Competence Centre for Technology Transfer, JRC