WASHINGTON, USA: With the launch of the US–EU Match network recently, US companies and researchers will be able to have European business support delivered to their door step. The network will enhance transatlantic trade and encourage transfers of innovative ideas and technology, by helping American companies and research institutes establish links with their EU counterparts.

The US–EU Match network will link up with the existing Enterprise Europe Network. Launched by the European Commission, the Enterprise Europe Network is made up of close to 600 partner organizations in more than 40 countries. Its principal aim is to assist small- and medium-sized businesses, as well as research centers and universities, by putting them in contact with organizations that can help their enterprises develop and thrive.

"By creating a network in the United States and linking it to the Enterprise Europe Network, we will significantly enhance transatlantic innovation and trade initiatives," said Angelos Pangratis, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the European Commission to the United States.

The US–EU Match network will be led by a consortium consisting of:

• Intrasoft International S.A (Luxembourg), a leading information technology company;
• NineSigma (Cleveland, OH), an innovation broker and leading provider of open innovation services connecting companies seeking technology with global innovators;
• RTI International (Research Triangle Park, NC), a leading research institute with a strong history of supplying innovative research and technical solutions to governments and businesses;
• The European-American Business Organization, Inc. (New York City, NY), a consulting firm specializing in transatlantic business development and international tax services.
  
  

The US–EU Match network will provide companies and research institutes with a range of services, including:

• Information on opportunities such as research calls for proposals, technology requests and partner searches.
• Organization of networking meetings to provide a forum for U.S. business and research to meet European counterparts.
• Information and training workshops on the application process for European calls and research grants, and the preparation of technology offers and requests.
• Network website (web forum, contact database, polls, etc.).
• Organization of on-demand support (bespoke services) responding to client needs.