Complex development of regional cooperation in the field of open ICT innovations (KA 179)
Funded by Karelia ENPI 2007-2013

Objective of the project

The objective of the project was to create and further develop the ICT competence incubation infrastructure and a set of well-prepared teams, capable of independent challenging research, development and entrepreneurship activity with possible future implementation in industry.

Main activities

• Evaluation of competences and demands. • Building competences: education and development of ICT innovation environments. • Application development and dissemination.

Achievements

The Project developed and further enhanced regional competences in the field of open ICT innovations by establishing proper infrastructure, and enabling and organizing educational, research and development activities especially for students from the Republic of Karelia and Oulu region. A variety of public events, including conferences, intensive courses, and trainings organized by the Project, created a vivid platform for cross-border cooperation to foster mutual understanding and knowledge sharing between industry and academy representatives. Local teams established cross-border cooperation networks, developed infrastructures and up-to-date competences demanded by ICT industry. Besides, these advancements formed a basis for continuation of cross-border collaboration. Youth of Karelia and Oulu regions, especially university students, got the latest technologies and learned to have clear focus on measurable and industry-relevant outcome. Culture, methodology and procedures for developing high-quality mobile applications, services and solutions were developed. The youth got access to lab infrastructure and equipment, up-to-date competences, and network of contacts to allow efficient cooperation with leaders of ICT industry. Visibility of their results was increased for leaders in ICT research and industry in home country and worldwide. New jobs in ICT sector were created on both sides of the border, as well as opportunities for establishing new companies.