Internationalisation service

Regional Soft Landing and Ecosystem Access

Provided by Startup Europe Regions Network (SERN) · Belgium

Service description

This individualised service supports EIC beneficiaries in expanding into new European innovation ecosystems by facilitating strategic connections with regional innovation actors, public authorities, clusters, accelerators, research organisations and business support organisations. The objective is to accelerate market access, partnership development and ecosystem integration through tailored soft-landing support. 

Delivered by SERN's international network of regional innovation ecosystems and innovation experts, the service typically spans 3 to 6 months and is suitable for EIC Pathfinder, Transition and Accelerator beneficiaries across all technology sectors seeking to validate new markets or establish collaborations in Europe. 

The service starts with an internationalisation assessment to define the beneficiary's expansion objectives, target markets and collaboration needs. Based on this analysis, experts identify the most relevant European regions and ecosystem actors, preparing a tailored ecosystem engagement plan. 

Activities include mapping regional innovation ecosystems, identifying strategic partners and support organisations, facilitating introductions to relevant stakeholders, organising tailored online or in-person matchmaking meetings, advising on regional innovation opportunities, and providing guidance on local ecosystem dynamics. Where appropriate, beneficiaries are supported in participating in ecosystem events, regional missions and networking activities to strengthen their European presence. 

Expected outcomes include a tailored internationalisation roadmap, access to a portfolio of relevant European stakeholders, facilitated introductions to strategic partners, and an actionable ecosystem engagement plan that supports future collaboration, business development and market expansion. 

The service combines individual mentoring, ecosystem brokerage, stakeholder introductions and regular follow-up meetings, concluding with a final review session and recommendations for sustaining long-term engagement within the selected European innovation ecosystems.

Applications on rolling basis meaning, 3–6 months duration of the service.

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