In recent years, SMEs in Romania have had to adapt rapidly: changing processes, adopting existing technologies, finding efficient solutions with limited resources and operating in an unpredictable economic context.
Most of the time, these efforts are not considered “innovation” in the traditional sense.
What is INNOVENTURE
INNOVENTURE is a national initiative that combines:
- applied academic research, dedicated to understanding how innovation actually manifests in SMEs,
- with a national innovation competition, designed specifically for the realities of the Romanian entrepreneurial environment.
The competition is open to SMEs in four key industries for Romania’s economy: Construction | Food | IT & Tech | Auto-Moto
What we mean by innovation
INNOVENTURE does not focus solely on patents, laboratories, or large research budgets.
We recognize innovation where it truly exists:
- in decision-making processes,
- in the way people are involved,
- in the intelligent adoption of technology,
- in adapting processes to work better,
- in the ability to find solutions under pressure.
This is the real innovation practiced by SMEs.
Why this competition is different
- it does not penalize the absence of formal R&D structures,
- it does not require “textbook” strategies,
- it does not evaluate companies through rigid indicators.
Instead, it acknowledges adaptation, resilience and practical creativity—exactly where they occur.
For many SMEs, participating in INNOVENTURE is the first opportunity where their day-to-day efforts are evaluated and validated as innovation.
How it works
Participation involves completing a structured questionnaire that:
- takes approximately 15–20 minutes,
- is free of charge,
- is designed specifically for SMEs.
SMEs can participate:
- either only in the research,
- or also in the innovation competition (optional).
Evaluation is conducted by a multidisciplinary jury, consisting of experts from the private sector, academia, associations and institutions, organized by industry.
Recognition and visibility
The competition concludes with the INNOVENTURE Gala, a national event dedicated to recognizing real innovation in SMEs.
Results are documented in a dedicated publication and relevant initiatives gain visibility within business ecosystems, clusters, and institutions.
Why INNOVENTURE matters
Romania is not lacking in innovation. It needs fair criteria, appropriate language and real recognition.
INNOVENTURE does not aim to teach SMEs what innovation is. It aims to observe it, understand it, and make it visible.
Registrations open until March 15, 2026
More details: www.innoventure.ro
