Connect your business to new international opportunities with the support of EEN
For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), research institutions, and innovation stakeholders, collaboration is essential for innovation and sustainable growth. Building the right partnerships can accelerate product development, expand into new markets, and improve competitiveness. The Bucharest-Ilfov region is a key hub for innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship in Romania, and the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) plays a crucial role in connecting local businesses to international partner networks and resources.
What is the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN)?
Launched in 2008, the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) is the world’s largest support network for SMEs with international ambitions. The network operates in over 60 countries, bringing together more than 600 organizations, including chambers of commerce, technology centers, innovation support institutions, and universities. In Romania, and especially in the Bucharest-Ilfov region, EEN offers free services that help SMEs expand internationally by identifying business partners, facilitating technology transfer, and supporting research collaborations.
The Enterprise Europe Network offers a unique and powerful platform for discovering international business, technology, and research partners. Whether you’re a startup seeking growth, a researcher looking for collaborative projects, or a company exploring new markets, EEN’s partnering services can provide a strategic edge.
Collaboration is no longer optional—it’s a priority. And with EEN, finding the right partner has never been easier.
Types of partnerships available through EEN
🔹 Business Partnerships
EEN helps companies identify commercial partners for:
- Distribution in foreign markets;
- Franchising or subcontracting;
- Strategic alliances for the development of new products and services.
Example: A French organic cosmetics company can use EEN to find a distributor in Poland or co-develop a new product with a biotechnology company in Germany.
🔹 Technology Transfer
EEN connects organizations seeking to license, acquire, or jointly develop new technologies. This process supports the commercialization of innovations and fosters cross-border research collaborations.
Example: A Spanish university developing microbiome-based dermatological treatments can find a Belgian startup interested in licensing the technology or participating in a clinical trial.
🔹 Research and Development (R&D) Collaborations
EEN facilitates the creation of consortia for projects funded by the European Union, such as Horizon Europe. SMEs and research institutions in the Bucharest-Ilfov region can engage in applied research projects alongside partners from across Europe.
Example: An Italian AI company may collaborate with a Dutch university and a Slovenian robotics firm to apply for funding under Horizon Europe for digital health solutions.
🔹 Sector-Specific Matchmaking Events
EEN organizes brokerage events, virtual matchmaking sessions, and innovation tours across sectors such as digital technology, life sciences, energy, and sustainable manufacturing. These events offer pre-arranged meetings to explore collaboration potential.
Example: At a health innovation matchmaking event, a Nordic skincare company may discover a biotech startup from Vienna developing postbiotic-based anti-inflammatory solutions.
Local support for SMEs in Bucharest-Ilfov
In the region, MSP, as an EEN partner, provides tailored support for companies through its experts ready to help your business access international markets, find trusted partners, and accelerate innovation:
- Creating partnership profiles and identifying the best opportunities;
- Targeted searches in the EEN international database;
- Facilitating B2B meetings at trade fairs and international events;
- Support for EU funding applications.
Why collaborate with EEN?
The benefits of partnering through EEN are clear:
- Access to international markets with reduced risk;
- Verified partnerships through a trusted network;
- Accelerating innovation through technology transfer and joint development;
- Expanding your network in public and private sectors;
- Expert support from local advisors and sectoral experts.
How to get started?
If you represent a company or organization from the region and are interested in international development, follow these steps:
- Contact the MSP team – local EEN partner who can guide you through the process of identifying suitable partners.
- Create a partnership profile: Share information about your business, technologies, or research projects you’re interested in.
- Use the online matchmaking platform: Search for and respond to relevant profiles.
- Participate in sector-specific events: Join matchmaking sessions, trade fairs, or thematic conferences.
- Receive continuous support: Get assistance with EU funding applications and developing an international expansion strategy.
🔗 EEN website: https://een.ec.europa.eu/
📧 EEN MSP contact: https://magurelesciencepark.ro/en/prosme-een/
🔍 Access EEN Partnership database: https://een.ec.europa.eu/partnering-opportunities
Open your business to new markets, collaborate with European and international partners, and take advantage of the Enterprise Europe Network support directly from your region!
#EENcanHelp #PartneringOpportunities
