SMEEE

Project summary

Market uncertainties make it challenging for SMEs in the Central Baltic region to enter new export markets. The SME Export Engine project is designed to bolster their competitive edge, foster connections, and boost exports, fueling local economic growth. This initiative aims to enhance the competitiveness of industrial tech SMEs and promote intelligent, eco-friendly solutions. It targets companies specializing in areas like advanced engineering, software, cybersecurity, AI, power systems, electrification, and battery technology. With a consortium of partners excelling in these fields, the project aims to unite firms with cutting-edge products, facilitate market understanding and collaboration on deals, and provide market insights. It also assists in establishing export links and supports interactions with prospective clients abroad. 

Focusing on two to three key markets within the NAFTA region, the project will refine its target areas based on thorough market analysis and SME feedback. Potential focus areas may include regions such as the Great Lakes. The project prioritizes state-sized markets for their accessibility and dynamic networks, suitable for SMEs. Partners will leverage their contacts in rapidly expanding markets that demand new industrial tech solutions, including smart machinery and digitalization. 

SMEEE’s goal is to expand the export network and share contacts across the Central Baltic region. The project’s ambition is to involve at least 80 SMEs, with the primary goal of fostering know-how and trust to form cross-border consortia. These consortia will support active businesses in securing at least 20 new sales contracts. The project will also track other agreements and investments to demonstrate its impact and reinforce trust and expertise among stakeholders.

The project is funded by the EU Interreg Central Baltic Programme.  

The Baltic Institute of Finland coordinates project management in this initiative together with the lead partner, Business Tampere.