MELIITA 3 H2020 · Maltese-European Linkages for Internationalisation, Innovation and Technology Transfer [3]

The objective behind the MELIITA 3 proposal is to support the smart growth of Maltese SMEs by increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of investments in research, development and innovation and to contribute to a better and more efficient connection of stakeholders and players along the innovation chain. By combining the actions under this Horizon2020 programme with the support being offered under COSME, the Network will be best positioned to offer both business and innovation support along the entire value chain. Services are thus being provided to clients in the wider context of, and in line with, the Europe 2020 strategy. There are two specific objectives which the Malta consortium will aim to achieve by end 2019, namely:● To ensure that key SME beneficiaries of the Horizon2020 programme are supported efficiently and effectively so that their full potential can be exploited; and● To ensure that the innovation management capacity of Maltese micro and SME clients is enhanced.In order to achieve the first objective, the consortium will commit to assisting beneficiaries of funding schemes like SME Instrument, Fast Track to Innovation, and Future and Emerging Technologies Open through Key Account Management [KAM] services. Specialised Network personnel will be deployed to facilitate coaching services to such clients following the assessment of coaching needs and identification of suitable coaches. The second main objective will be attained through the deployment of Network services to assess the innovation management capacity of pre-identified clients. The activity under this work package is planned to help SMEs become aware of, and address, the main deficiencies in their innovation management systems since this is perceived as a potential barrier to the creation of economic impact from innovation activities.