Medibtikar project delivers opportunities for SMEs

Eurojar feature: Medibtikar project delivers opportunities for SMEs

02-02-2010

 

The EU-funded innovation project Medibtikar has achieved many positive results for SMEs in partner countries according to the latest Eurojar article published in the Lebanese daily L’Orient Le Jour.
 
The feature explains that the programme, which ended in December 2009 after three years of activity with a budget of €7.3 million, has achieved many successes including the feasibility study on the RIFF "Regional Innovation Financing Facility” in each Partner Country, which issued recommendations to address the deficiencies of financing schemes. The programme has also allowed the SMEs of Egypt, Syria, Morocco and Tunisia, through joining the largest global network of assistance to SMEs, the EU’s “Enterprise Europe Network”, to have access to over 2,500 economic experts and technology in over 40 countries.
 
The project’s results were also positive in Syria, according to the article, where a study, produced a number of recommendations on the modernisation of research and development policies and the improvement of management in the field of innovation.
 
However, in Lebanon, the project had mixed results, according to the feature. Medibtikar’s internet portal Medatex, a regional information system for the textile sector aimed to boost relations between regional actors of the textile sector, and between them and the EU, did not meet the Lebanese industry’s needs according to a member of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Lebanon.
 
The EuroMed Innovation and Technology Programme, Medibtikar aimed at disseminating innovative practices by developing exchanges between planners, policy makers and stakeholders in the ENPI South region. Medibtikar also sought to build and strengthen relationships with European public and private partners through the establishment of strong and active networks.
 
Eurojar is one of 13 projects funded across the ENPI under EuropeAid’s €19 million Regional Information and Communication Programme, which seeks to increase awareness and understanding among the citizens of the area, about the EU, its policies and relations with their countries. The Eurojar budget amounts to €1.5 million and the project will last for one year. As well as Al-Hayat, it publishes articles highlighting EU cooperation in L’Orient Le Jour and Le Commerce du Levant, and broadcasts weekly reportages on LBCI and LBCSat. (ENPI Info Centre)