Innovationchecks PLUS

Purpose and goal

The basic aim of the pilot project has been to outline a model for continuation investments /- financing, connected to the Innovationcheck BAS model. In the PLUS mode the intention was to reinforce the resources to the innovation projct in order to achive further growth and to develope business models. In order to fulfull the aim, goals were set up focusing on defining a systematic model to add on the originla 8 step method use by IUC Network, and to select SMEs willing and able to participate in the process. From the evaluation we can find that all these goals have been achieved.

Results and expected effects

16 SMEs have been involved in the PLUS project. All of them participated in the BAS mode but did not finalize these innovation projects. All 16 have accomplised their pre defined project intentions in the PLUS mode ambitions. 2/3 of the SMEs have descibed how they during the project have reached the market / customers. The additional 1/3 answer that they have an plan to go ahead towards the market after ending the project. All of the company representatives rate the PLUS model and the application of the model very high and recommend future use of the model in other SMEs

Approach and implementation

Initially a selection out of about 200 SME innovation project were done in order to pick out SMEs with interest, willingness and potential to participate in the PLUS pilot project. None of the selected 16 SMEs had fully ´reached´ the market and needed more time, more knowledge, more testing or other additional development to add an innovative product or service in their business offer. The projects have been operated by the companies but with a regular support from the IUC coaches and in close cooperation with the external competences. Very satisfactory results.