The North East has been selected to pilot the Open Innovation 2.0 Lab programme which is designed to encourage cross-border collaboration and to give SMEs the opportunity to devise solutions to problems faced by large manufacturers.

The project is open to all SMEs based in the North East and businesses are invited to attend a launch event on Thursday 24 January at Newcastle’s Crowne Plaza where the challenge will be unveiled. The first challenge in the programme has been set by a regional automotive manufacturer. They are looking for digital solutions to a manufacturing issue, and are keen to engage with local companies who may be able to develop a solution.

SMEs selected for the programme will be partnered with a European SME to further develop their idea and will also receive a €5000 voucher to support their work.

Open Innovation 2.0 LAB is a two year Horizon 2020 project managed by partners from Greece, Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany and the UK.

Open Innovation 2.0 LAB is led in the North East by the North East LEP, RTC and Innovation SuperNetwork.