EIC International Trade Fairs Programme 3.0: A story of fruitful collaboration between global event organisations and the EIC

The implementation of the EIC International Trade Fairs Programme 3.0 would not have been possible without the support of its international partners. The trade fairs’ organisations are at the forefront of industries’ developments, business trends and innovation challenges. These key players are allowing European innovation to be showcased abroad, and supporting EIC-backed companies with unique business opportunities. 

Earlier this year, at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the EIC had its pavilion present and showcasing top European innovations. Pere Duran, Director of 4YFN, who’s been collaborating with the EIC for the past years in participating at the MWC, said: 

“Through the International Trade Fairs Programme 3.0, the EIC Pavilion shines a light on some of Europe’s brightest minds and most innovative solutions chosen for their transformative impact in key areas that will help us solve some of society’s most pressing challenges”. 

The trade fairs taking part in this programme play a crucial role in supporting European innovators in their internationalisation journey, facilitating strategic partnerships with key players from their sector’s innovation ecosystem. Here’s how: 

• By providing a platform for European innovators to network with industry leaders, investors, and potential collaborators from all around the world. Through networking events, matchmaking sessions and one-on-one meetings, innovators can establish valuable connections and explore partnership opportunities; 

• By offering educational sessions, workshops, and panels that provide insights into the desired market landscape, regulatory environment, and business practices. These resources equip European innovators with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complexities of expanding into the foreign markets successfully; 

• By offering access to a diverse range of investors including venture capitalists, angel investors, and strategic partners actively seeking investment opportunities in innovation. By participating in investor meetings and pitch sessions, European innovators can showcase their technologies and secure funding to support their internationalisation efforts; 

• By providing European innovators with a high-visibility platform to showcase their technologies, products, and services to a global audience; 

• By advocating for policies that support innovation and collaboration in the industry, including policies related to intellectual property protection, regulatory harmonisation, and market access. Engaging with policymakers and advocating for favorable policies during the trade fairs can create an environment for European innovators to thrive in other markets. 

About the EIC International Trade Fairs Programme 3.0 

The EIC International Trade Fairs Programme 3.0 supports the internationalisation of European SMEs, scaleups and startups, building on the success of its predecessor, the EIC Overseas Trade Fairs Programme (OTF) 2.0.    

If you’re interested in knowing more about the programme and our open calls, please visit our page in the EIC Community.     

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