Before the series of ip4inno training seminars started, the Consortium carried out a joint study and analysis of SMEs training needs. Intermediaries (chambers of commerce, innovation agencies and other business advisory bodies), researchers and SMEs were interviewed for the study.

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Identified training needs

Intermediaries seem to be the group which requires less training; many have worked with intellectual property (IP) already and are aware of quite a number of IP methods and tools. However, they may wish to receive training on how to train others, or refresher courses. They may also require training on why IP is important to better train and advise SMEs.

For researchers, the value of IP for academic promotion should be increased.

The IP strategy of SMEs is directly related to the brand image of the enterprise or to its business strategy. If the IP strategy of SMEs is mostly based on reputation/advertising IP as an economic asset, we can identify training needs in these fields.

Recommendations for training sessions

While conceptualising the training for trainers, which will provide basic qualifications for first level guidance, a more comprehensive training at consultant level, either public or private, or preferably both should be considered. IP issues should be embedded among normal business planning, so that SMEs can see the IP systems' impact on solving their business problems.

The integration of IP tools in the academic curriculum should be a priority in order to improve the use of IP tools by researchers.

Based on the interviews with intermediaries and SMEs, we can see a strong need for more targeted IP training for SMEs. However the specific training events must be tailor-made depending on which approach the SME prefers to take. Courses should be broad in subject (not just for patents. It also should touch on practical issues like procedures, costs, funding) and short (one day maximum) but intense.