Dialogic präsentiert auf dem International Network for SMEs.

Innovation is not an isolated activity: a company's innovation performance depends on interactions with other companies, knowledge institutions, intermediaries, etc. Companies often collaborate to develop new products or services, or to optimize their internal processes. They find 'resources' at their partners that the company itself does not possess. Resources, such as money, materials, but especially knowledge, are essential for innovation. An 'open innovation process' fits not only large companies but also certainly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). After all, it is the small companies that encounter limitations in 'resources' (including time!) and can therefore benefit from partnering.

Policymakers are increasingly taking into account the trend of open innovation and the necessity for companies (especially SMEs) to involve external partners in their innovation processes. One policy instrument that aligns with this idea is the Innovation Voucher Scheme. This instrument was first introduced in the Netherlands in 2004, in pilot form, by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. A voucher represents a limited amount of money that can be used to have a knowledge question answered by a (public) knowledge institution. The voucher scheme aims to contribute to the innovativeness of the enterprise, make public knowledge institutions more demand-driven, and - above all - encourage sustainable relationships between SMEs and researchers. Dialogic evaluated the Dutch scheme in 2008.

There are now dozens of voucher programs in Europe, sometimes with similar, sometimes with different (primary) objectives and design characteristics.

At the annual conference of the International Network for SMEs (INSME), Bram Kaashoek, on behalf of Dialogic, discussed the generic design of voucher instruments in Europe (with the Dutch case as the main example); the rationale behind this instrument and its effects. INSME organized the event around the theme: SME Innovation - Boosting Development and Growth in Times of Change. The congress took place in Rio de Janeiro from May 10 to 13 and attracted 200 visitors from 25 countries.

The presentation by Bram can be viewed on the INSME website. Additionally, the website provides more information about the conference and about INSME as a network organization.

If you have any questions/comments, please contact Bram Kaashoek