The overarching objective of this assignement is to strengthen the inter-sectoral collaboration between the science and business communities in the five EaP Partner countries by identifying existing gaps and opportunities, promoting the uptake of innovative cooperation models and fostering a structured exchange of experience and best practices with relevant EU stakeholders. This objective will be pursued through the assessment of existing SBL structures and practices in the five EaP Partner countries, identification of systemic barriers and enablers, formulation of targeted policy and operational recommendations, and the creation of opportunities for sustained dialogue and partnership-building with EU counterparts. The ultimate goal is to enhance innovation performance, improve technology uptake, and foster more dynamic, resilient, and market-oriented research and innovation ecosystems in the EaP region. A five-day study visit to Vienna for the EaP delegation and later a matchmaking event will be organised under this GSF contract.
