SPREAD2INNO: SPREADing the global potential of developing innovation ecosystems to strengthen INNOvation in regional and local businesses

As part of the EU project SPREAD2INNO, Fraunhofer IPK is collaborating with partners from six European countries to provide targeted support to startups in less innovation-intensive regions of Europe. The project's main objective is to develop a transferable and scalable model that promotes young, innovative companies and strengthens regional and European innovation ecosystems.

Fraunhofer IPK's role encompasses several key tasks.  First, the institute identifies and analyzes regional innovation actors, initiatives, and best practices. As part of a comprehensive mapping process, regional innovation centers, accelerators, funding institutions, and incubators are documented and evaluated systematically. The goal is to highlight existing European structures and link them to the specific needs of young companies. Success stories are documented to facilitate transfer to other regions. The results of this analysis are entered into a filterable database, which forms the basis for the organization and content design of six regional innovation events in Bulgaria, Greece, and Italy. These events provide start-ups in less developed innovation regions with the opportunity to network with experts, investors, and industry leaders; further develop their business models; and participate in pitch formats. The events also serve as platforms for knowledge transfer, initiating cooperation, and promoting regional innovation. Over 120 companies and numerous other stakeholders participate in the local events.

Another key aspect of Fraunhofer IPK's work involves developing and implementing customized feasibility studies for business model development. These analyses are based on targeted questionnaires that collect comprehensive information about the business models of participating startups. A study is created for each selected company, resulting in 72 studies total. These studies provide start-ups with a structured basis for strategic decisions and investor discussions.

The project's findings are incorporated into joint recommendations for action and a best practice handbook. These will serve as a basis for future programs at the regional and European levels. The SPREAD2INNO project demonstrates how innovation potential can be activated in less established regions through structured analysis tools, targeted training, and international networking. The project also highlights Fraunhofer IPK's role as an expert in strengthening European innovation landscapes.