FIT FOR HEALTH · Promoting participation of high-tech research-intensive SMEs in Health

Fit for Health aims to sustainably enhance the participation of European small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Calls for the FP7 Health Theme. Focusing on research-intensive, high technology SMEs, the project offers targeted support measures, covering the entire innovation pipeline of the Health sector. Key assets of Fit for Health are highly qualified consultancy, hands-on trainings, effective SME-academia matchmaking and guidance to strategic use of FP7 by SMEs and clusters. Particular attention will be given to SMEs in enlarged Europe, Acceding and Candidate countries. SMEs and researchers will be supported during all phases of FP7-projects, including consortium building, proposal writing, grant negotiation, project management and efficient valorisation of project results. Cooperation between SMEs and academia will be strongly encouraged by dedicated services and tools. A well-established, highly visible database and a sophisticated matchmaking-tool, already proven in preceding initiatives, will support the formation of competitive project consortia. Partnering Days and Virtual Brokerage Events will provide excellent interaction platforms for SMEs and academia. Target group-specific on-site and virtual trainings for FP7 Newcomers, Applicants and participants of funded FP7 projects will be a hallmark of the project. “Valorisation Trainings” and specific Partnering Events will support SMEs and researchers in successfully exploiting project results. Strategy meetings and trainings will support SMEs and clusters for a strategic, sustainable approach towards FP7. The consortium of 27 partners from 22 countries joins highly experienced FP7 NCPs for “Health” and “SMEs” with renowned innovation experts and trainers, ensuring excellent coverage of the entire innovation pipeline. Strategic Third Parties contribute the perspective of Venture Capital and Bank Financing. The efficiently managed network is also optimally connected to other key support networks for SMEs.