Project overview
Co-designed impactful financial instruments for boosting innovation in SMEs and start-ups
Funding schemes for market-driven research and innovation are rare in central Europe. Finance providers and policy makers often shy away from introducing such schemes due to their complexity. The FI4NN project is changing this by supporting the co-design of new finance instruments in regions that want to boost research and innovation. A knowledge centre promotes innovative instruments that already exist elsewhere and new financial instruments are piloted in seven regions.
2,09m €
Project Budget
80%
of the Budget is funded by ERDF
8
10
10
7
Duration
Start date
End date
Project progress
About the project
Project partnership
Project partners
Lead partner
Friuli Innovazione
Project partner
International Projects Department
Financial instruments and grants
9020 Klagenfurt am Wörthersee
Consulting
Sectoral Agency
Roadmap
Challenge
The primary challenge of the project is the lack of successful financial schemes for innovation, particularly for SMEs and startups in Central Europe, leading to barriers such as limited credit access, financial constraints for innovative start-ups, and underdeveloped Social Impact Investment markets in the region.
Specific Problem
The specific problem is the inadequate access to effective financial schemes for innovation in Central Europe, particularly for Research and Innovation (R&I) activities in SMEs and startups.
Idea
Our idea is to revolutionize and reshape the innovation finance landscape in Central Europe. We aim to create a Virtual Knowledge Center that redefines the old financial schemes. The core concept is to empower innovators, SMEs, startups, and investors by providing them with the tools and resources they need to not only access funding but also foster an environment of collaboration and growth.
Solution
Our solution involves the creation of a user-friendly Virtual Knowledge Center that centralizes resources, funding opportunities, and expertise for innovators, SMEs, startups, and investors. This platform acts as a hub for reimagined financial schemes, innovative financing instruments, and holistic support, with active stakeholder engagement throughout its development.
How it works
1. We will actively involve stakeholders throughout the project's development, including innovators, SMEs, startups, investors, governmental bodies, and regional experts. Regular feedback sessions, surveys, and consultation forums will ensure the platform meets their specific needs. 2. The Virtual Knowledge Center will provide access to an extensive database of innovative funding schemes, which will be curated based on the input of stakeholders to ensure relevancy.
Proof and Credibility
In the next three years we will strengthening innovation capacities and co-design impactful financial instruments for boosting innovation.
Impact
Our mission is to revolutionize the way innovation is funded and unleash the potential of central Europe's brightest minds.
News
P1 Smart
NEWS
23.02.2024
Enhancing Stakeholder Engagement through the Power/Interest Matrix
FI4INN employs the Power/Interest matrix for effective stakeholder engagement, categorizing stakeholders based on influence and interest. High Power/High Interest stakeholders require close collaboration, while Low Power/Low Interest stakeholders need occasional updates. Adapting strategies ensures efficient resource allocation. The matrix aids in identifying key allies and influencers, driving project success ...
P1 Smart
NEWS
12.01.2024
The Role of Multilevel Stakeholder Engagement in Financial Ecosystems
In today's dynamic financial landscape, the FI4INN project pioneers innovation in Central European regions, uniting diverse stakeholders. Multilevel stakeholder engagement is essential, driving innovation, creating opportunities, and adapting solutions for SMEs. FI4INN employs strategic mapping and engagement tools, fostering an interactive ecosystem for effective cooperation, trust-building, and economic growth.
P1 Smart
NEWS
11.12.2023
Enhancing Innovation Funding in Central Europe
The FI4INN project, dedicated to enhancing innovation funding access in Central Europe, conducted a transnational focus group, revealing challenges such as ambiguity in eligibility criteria and communication issues. Proposed solutions include a unified instrument for startups and simplified bureaucracy. Recommendations advocate for ex ante financing, streamlined processes, and fostering ...
P1 Smart
NEWS
09.11.2023
Revolutioning Finance for Innovation: Exploring Equity Solutions with the European Investment Fund
The Exchange of Experiences (EOE) between partners and relevant stakeholders, featured the Mandate Officer from the European Investment Fund (EIF), explaining equity solutions, including quasi-equity. In a region with limited support, EIF's commitment is a beacon of hope for bridging the financing gap and empowering entrepreneurs.
Events
No events found
Project documents
CASE STUDIES | LOANS AND GUARANTEES
CASE STUDIES | EQUITY AND QUASI EQUITY
CASE STUDIES | COMBINED INSTRUMENTS
CASE STUDIES | BOND / BASKET BOND
FI4INN
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