What is the SME Instrument?

H2020’S SME INSTRUMENT– Objectives and approach

The SME Instrument is an impact oriented approach that must be addressed in all sections at all stages of the project development.

PURPOSES :

• Delivering strategic technologies that can drive competitiveness and growth.
• Looking for Europe’s next innovation leaders.

H2020’S SME INSTRUMENT– FUNDING SCHEME

The SME Instrument is an open call with four cut-off dates per year for each phase. It consists of three separate phases from Idea to Market.

• Phase 1: The SME will draft an initial business proposal.
• Phase 2: The SME will further develop its proposal through innovation activities, and draft a more developed business plan.
• Phase 3: The SME will receive extensive support to help polish its concept into a marketable product, and have access to networking opportunities.

H2020’S SME INSTRUMENT– PROPOSAL EVALUATION

Proposals to SME Instrument should:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the technology and market environment, to select and justify the project objectives
• Present a credible and viable methodology to achieve the project objectives
• Deliver innovations with impact
• Demonstrate the ability and capability to deliver, including work Plan, governance, policies, systems, structures, operational processes and risk management.

H2020’S SME INSTRUMENT– RECOMMENDATIONS

Make sure that your SME Instrument’s proposal:

• Addresses IP, impact and innovation in all 3 sections of the proposal.
• Gets strategic intelligence by analysing the whole landscape (scientific, technical, market, IPR, regulations, standards, etc.) to be able to justify the concept, objectives and methodology.
• Plans to create the Project results (Work Plan)
• Plans to get the project results used (dissemination and exploitation plan).
• Shows that you have the structures and procedures to implement the plans (including innovation management)