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Whether dealing with products, manufacturing processes or marketing methods in industrial
or service sectors, each EC-BIC�s aim is to turn entrepreneurs with innovative projects
into managers of thriving enterprises.
Their growth potential makes these small and medium-sized enterprises a major asset
in regional development. Thus the EC-BIC�s coupled with macro-economic support measures
for states and regions, notably the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) have
become original and specific instruments for the implementation of local development
strategies.
The creation of an EC-BIC is based on strong local consensus. The European Commission
co-finances the centre�s preparation and trial period and ties the new centre into
the European Commumity network of EC-BICs .
The Member State authorities may subsequently seed ERDF cofinancing assisstance
for the construction investments and operational costs of the established centre.
Taking into account the economic realities of the region involved, the creation
of an EC-BIC provides:
- effective development of local innovative potential
- diversification of industrial activity, meaning less local fragility and vulnerability
- development of new activities in high-potential sectors: leading to the ahort and medium-term
creation of stable, skilled jobs, which increase in number with time.
- creation of high-value products which can be exported to other regions and abroad
- encouragement of autonomous businesses through the development of original and innovative products.
Decentralized, with a finger on the pulse of local economic and social conditions,
each EC-BIC is a liaison and coordination structure in touch with the business world,
acting as a springboard for regional development.
By uniting five key-factors for success-entrepreneurial talent, innovation, market
awareness, finance and businesses planning the EC-BIC�s have already assisted the
creation of several thousands of new businesses with an average of around five employees
per company.
On the eve of the year 2000, in a constantly evolving Europe of new perspectives,
EC-BICs are more than ever the key to economic development.
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