Policy Support for Innovation and Learning in SMEs: The Cases of Profitnet and Profitnet Plus

Abstract

There is a variety of programmes and schemes supporting learning and innovation in SME. Most of the existing innovation policies have focused on specific groups such as the New Technology Based Firms and the High Growth ones, neglecting the majority of SME. The discussion will introduce a framework for classifying the various support systems addressed to small businesses. It will then discuss the results of the evaluation exercise of Profitnet and Profitnet Plus programmes in Sussex. More specifically it will refer to the following aspects of the programme: (i) the economic impact achieved by the programme, (ii) the members benefits in terms of business and innovation skills and innovation capabilities (iii) the collaboration and interaction induced by the programme and (iv) the members’ perceived satisfaction of the programme operations. The discussion will conclude with offering the conclusions drawn for policy support of learning and innovation in SME.