How Research and Technology Infrastructures give SMEs a winning edge

The Insider is a go-to podcast hosted by Ricardo Migueis from INESC Brussels and dedicated to providing an in-depth overview of EU Research and Innovation. This episode focuses on the pivotal role Research and Technology Infrastructures (RTIs) play in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with Claudia Pfander from Euro-BioImaging, Andrew Smith from Elixir, Nuria Valls Vidal from ALBA Synchrotron and Ed Mitchell from ESRF. 

From flexible, low-barrier access routes to full support from A to Z, the panelists discuss how outreach, visibility, and orchestrators like RTOs and alumni help bridge the gap between RTIs and SMEs.

The discussion also focuses on the need for sustainable funding and effective policy frameworks to ensure long-term support for these infrastructures.

Takeaways

• Research and technology infrastructures (RTIs) play a crucial role in supporting SMEs in various sectors.
• Outreach, visibility, and effective communication are essential to ensure SMEs are aware of the services provided by RTIs.
• Orchestrators, such as RTOs and alumni, play a vital role in bridging the gap between RTIs and SMEs.
• Sustainable funding is necessary to support the operations of RTIs and their engagement with SMEs. Dedicated personnel are crucial for bridging the gap between RTIs and SMEs and facilitating engagement.
• Understanding industry needs is essential for developing high-quality services and improving SME access to RTIs.
• Flexible and low-barrier access routes are necessary to facilitate SME access to RTIs.
• Policy frameworks and coordination strategies at the European level can play a significant role in enhancing SME access to RTIs.
• Provision of full support from A to Z, including access and feedback, is critical for SMEs to benefit from RTIs.

Tune in here for an in-depth conversation about the future of RTIs and the crucial connection between research, innovation and industry!