Small to medium-sized enterprises across Ireland can grab grants to work alongside academic experts and come up with innovative business solutions.

Inter TradeIreland’s FUSION programme offers companies funding worth up to £29,500 (€34,500) to team up with a college or university on a knowledge transfer project.

Through the scheme, SMEs are partnered with a suitable academic institution and employ a science or technology graduate to work on a 12 month innovation project.

Funding covers 50% of the graduate’s salary, along with other project costs including any necessary equipment. The academic partner in the project can also claim up to £15,000 (€17,425) to cover costs some of the costs they incur.

As well as the financial support, the FUSION programme also provides comprehensive advice, consultancy and a series of master-classes to ensure the project’s success.

Margaret Hearty, Inter TradeIreland’s director of business programmes and services, said:

“Our FUSION programme partners SMEs with the best ideas and expertise on the island to give businesses the edge by improving their capabilities, while at the same time making a tangible impact on their bottom line.”

For further information about the FUSION programme, visit the Inter TradeIreland website (opens a new window)

Source: Inter TradeIreland, 15/06/2010