The idea behind the B2B LOCO project is based on the assumption that cooperation between enterprises within an international network and research institutions operating in the local market will allow companies to strengthen their competitiveness and achieved results through participation in framework program projects or by utilizing the most market-ready solutions developed within these projects. The number of countries participating in the project includes both old and new members of the European Union, two candidate countries, and Israel.
The target groups for the planned activities in the B2B LOCO project are regional clusters bringing together various types of SMEs: transport and logistics companies, manufacturing and trading companies, hi-tech companies, and companies offering, implementing, and promoting green technologies. These enterprises are often ready to participate in framework program projects, but they are unaware of their own potential because information regarding the chances and opportunities arising from framework programs is directed mainly at the scientific community.
The B2B LOCO consortium will organize two international conferences for business representatives (Poland – LOGISTICS 2010, Slovenia), two workshops (Lithuania, Croatia), and three brokerage meetings (Hungary, Czech Republic, Croatia). These activities will be supported by elements of constant communication (website, newsletters). Additionally, as part of the project, an Alumni Network will be created, which will include 9 partner universities, as well as a Brokerage Network enabling entrepreneurs to exchange experiences, both on the demand and supply side.
As a result of the B2B LOCO project activities, small and medium-sized enterprises will gain access to advanced solutions developed by framework project consortia and will learn about exemplary cases of successful cooperation between SMEs and the academic community. Additionally, the project will contribute to supporting the process of creating partnerships in future framework program projects, and, as part of the project activities, information channels will be established to convey relevant information in the field of transport and logistics.