Small and medium-sized enterprises : participation in FP7 projects in the biotechnologies activity

Biotechnology is among today's most innovative technologies and is a significant driver of economic growth within the bioeconomy. We are now able to produce bio-based products in more eco-efficient and sustainable ways. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working in the biotechnology field, which are behind much of the innovation and job creation taking place in Europe, are among those harvesting the potential of the bioeconomy. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the measures taken by the European Commission to encourage SME participation in EU-funded projects within the FP7 activity 'Biotechnologies', and of the opportunities that SMEs found. It updates knowledge on SMEs' profiles, share of funding received, their added value for projects, business benefits, etc. The positive results confirm that the European Commission's efforts to support SME participation have paid off.