Support networks and facilities for innovation and R&D

Business innovation centres (BICs) give support to innovative businesses and entrepreneurs. They aim to help young companies survive and grow during the start-up period when they are most vulnerable. This is known as incubation.

Services include:

• information about sharing premises with similar companies, such as in science parks
• advice about management, strategy and planning
• technological help
• help with finding manufacturers and markets for innovative products and services
• expert partnership and mentoring
• access to training
• access to other sources of help

The European Community runs a scheme to certify BICs, of which more than 150 are gathered under the umbrella of the European Business Network (EBN).