Collaboration between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and universities is crucial for innovation and research development. Innovative SMEs bring practical experience, innovation, and market knowledge, while universities provide expertise and research capacities.
One of the opportunities that collaboration between innovative SMEs and universities offers is the development of new products and services. SMEs can provide information about market needs and potential opportunities, while universities can contribute with their expertise and experience in various fields such as technology, engineering, and science. Through collaboration, these two sides can develop innovative products and services that meet market demands and are competitive on local, regional, international, and global markets.
Another possibility is the improvement of SMEs’ business operations. By collaborating with universities, small and medium-sized entrepreneurs can access new technologies and research methods, and enhance their processes and products. This enables them to improve the quality, efficiency, and competitiveness of their end products/services, which can result in increased sales and profit growth.
The third possibility is the career development for students and employees. Through collaboration with SMEs, universities can provide their students and employees with opportunities to gain practical experience and prepare for careers in the business world. This can also help SMEs find experts with the necessary knowledge and experience.
In conclusion, collaboration between SMEs and universities is important for innovation and research development, and it can contribute to the development of innovative products and services, the improvement of SMEs’ business operations, and the career advancement of students and employees. Therefore, collaboration between SMEs and universities should be supported and promoted to ensure that their potential for innovation development and business improvement is fully utilized. In the coming period, the announcement of several grant competitions is expected, aimed at: (1) exclusively promoting the innovation of SMEs and the development of new products and services, or (2) encouraging collaboration between SMEs and universities and other research organizations (such as institutes) to synergistically strengthen society’s and the business community’s innovation capacities.
