European networks

TAFTIE

2009-07-31T17:09:26Z

TAFTIE is the European Network of Innovation Agencies. It represents a group of 21 organisations from 20 European countries and has established an intense collaboration in the field of the implementation of national technology Programmes.

The main purpose of TAFTIE is to encourage international co-operation between its member organisations and, through this, to assist companies' participation in international innovation and R&D projects. It is particularly keen to encourage SME's to take part in such projects. Through TAFTIE companies can be guided to the Programme best suited to their individual requirements. The association also allows national technology programmes to be strengthened and expanded at the international level.

Further information.

PIN-SME

2009-07-31T16:39:49Z

PIN-SME is an association formed in 2007 to represent the interests of Europe’s ICT SME sector. Currently eight national and regional associations are members, representing some 50,000 ICT SME companies that account for around 200k jobs.

Further information.

The UK Higher Education Europe Unit

2009-07-31T16:34:49Z

The Europe Unit is a sector-wide body which aims to raise awareness of the European issues affecting UK higher education and to coordinate the UK’s involvement in European initiatives and debates. Launched in January 2004, the Unit seeks to strengthen the position of the UK higher education sector in debates on the Bologna Process and EU policy.

Further information.

Enterprise Europe Network

2009-07-31T16:30:55Z

A network of over 550 regional actors covering more than 40 countries and delivering business and innovation support services such as information on EU matters, business and technology cooperation, exploitation and transfer of research results or participation in EU funded RTDI and other schemes.

Services from the Network are particularly designed for SMEs, but are also available to all businesses, research centres and Universities across Europe.

Further information.

ERRIN

2009-07-31T16:14:53Z

ERRIN (European Regions Research & Innovation Network) is is a unique network of 70 dynamic EU regions and their Brussels representation offices. Originally supported by the European Commission's Directorate-General for Research in the frame of the Regions of Knowledge Pilot Action Programme ERRIN has since 2007 been moving to a sustainable Network.

ERRIN's five principal goals are: Knowledge Sharing at the EU level; Inter-regional exchanges; Practitioner development; Policy and thematic developments; Working with other Networks and Organisation. In particular it facilitates knowledge exchange, joint action and project partnerships between its members with the aim to strengthen their region's research and innovation capacities. ERRIN also aspires to influence EU policies in order to make them respond better to the needs of European regions and it engages in debate with EU institutions.

The West Midlands is taking a lead role in the establishment and running of ERRIN’s ICT Working Group.

Further information.