Open invitation to join the Enterprise Europe Network as International Network Partner.
Date: 2024-11-08
Institutions: European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency
Subjects: company growth, innovation, inter-company cooperation, inter-industrial relations, international cooperation, small and medium-sized enterprises

Open invitation to join the 
Enterprise Europe Network as 
International Network Partner 

This open invitation is published by the  
European Innovation Council and SMEs 
Executive Agency (EISMEA) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Enterprise Europe Network: 
supporting businesses to innovate 
and grow internationally 

The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  is  a  beacon  of  support  for  small  and  medium-sized 
enterprises  (SMEs),  including  start-ups,  with  international  ambitions.  As  one  of  the 
world’s  largest  business  support  networks,  it  brings  together  experts  from  over  500 
leading  organisations  around  the  globe  to  help  SMEs  innovate,  grow,  and  navigate 
international markets, establishing a vast global commercial area for trade, research, and 
innovation. 

Enterprise  Europe  Network  services  are  tailored  to  all  industrial  ecosystems,  among 
others  healthcare,  mobility,  electronics,  digitalisation,  agri-food,  renewable  energy, 
fashion, and textiles. Leveraging on their vast experience, our over 3000 experts deliver 
tailor-made  services  to  support  innovation,  facilitate  access  to  markets,  enhance 
resilience and facilitate the transition to sustainable and digital business models. 

With  a  client  satisfaction  rate  of  92%,  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  serves  over  800 
SMEs daily, leading to at least five game changing business deals for our clients every 
single  day.  The  Enterprise  Europe  Network can  be  a  catalyst  for your  business  clients' 
international growth prospects.  

The  open  invitation  is  directed  at  renowned  organisations  located  beyond  EU  borders, 
such  as  chambers  of  commerce,  innovation  agencies,  and  other  entities  that  support 
businesses  in  expanding  internationally.  Join  us  as  International  Network  Partner  and 
help  your  clients  find  European  business  partners  and  to  successfully  enter  the 
European Single Market, home to over 450 million consumers. 

This open invitation is published by the European Innovation Council and SME Executive 
Agency  (EISMEA),  established  and  acting  on  behalf  of  the  European  Commission, 
Directorate-General  for  Internal  Market,  Industry,  Entrepreneurship  and  SMEs  (DG 
GROW).  

2 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
companies in the EU Single Market. Becoming 
an International Network Partner of the 
Enterprise Europe Network can give your 
company clients privileged access to those 
opportunities, including specialised services 
and finding potential new business parners. 

“ There are huge opportunities available to 
” 

Jakub Boratynski, Director for Networks and Governance, 
Directorate General for Internal Market, Industry, 
Entrepreneurship and SMEs, European Commission 

“ 

Joining the Enterprise Europe Network as an 
International Network Partner gives you 
access to more than 500 business support 
organisations and their over 3000 experts, 
who help companies to grow, innovate and 
embrace more sustainable business models. 

Birgit Weidel, Head of Department, Innovation 
Ecosystems, SMP/Entrepreneurship and Consumers 
EISMEA – European Innovation Council and SMEs 
Executive Agency 

” 

. 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Table of contents 

01  About the Enterprise 

Europe Network 

02 Our business services 

03 The Network's client 

journey approach 

04 Our sectoral expertise 

05  Why do business in 

Europe? 

06 Joining the Network: 

what's in it for your 
organisation? 

07 How to express your 

interest to join 

ANNEX  Terms of reference & 

model Cooperation 
Agreement 

4 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
01  About the Enterprise Europe Network 

The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  helps  SMEs  innovate  and  grow  on  an 
international  scale.  It  is  the  world’s  largest  support  network  for  small  and 
medium-sized enterprises and start-ups with international ambitions.  

                                                                     © Copyright iStock 

A truly global business support network 

The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  brings  together  over 
3000  experts  from  organisations  that  are  renowned  for 
their excellence in business support. Such organisations 
include 
for  example:  chambers  of  commerce  and 
industry,  regional  development  agencies,  universities, 
research institutes or innovation agencies. 

Our  experts  provide  tailor-made  services  to  businesses. 
With  an  in-depth  understanding  of  the  local  business 
landscape, 
the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  creates 
commercial  opportunities  both  in  Europe  and  worldwide. 
Our  services  include  helping  businesses  to  enter  new 
markets,  supporting  innovation,  facilitating  technology 
transfer,  addressing  sustainability  issues,  supporting  the 
uptake of digital technologies, and promoting cross-border 
R&D cooperation. 

The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  offers  a 
targeted 
approach  aimed  at  specific  business  sectors.  Groups  of 
experts  cover  all  key  European  industrial  ecosystems, 
from  healthcare,  mobility,  electronics,  digitalisation,  agri-
food  and  renewable  energy  to  tourism  and  textile  and 
many more.  

launched 

the  Enterprise 
The  European  Commission 
Europe  Network  in  2008.  It  is  funded  through  the  Single 
Market  Programme  and  implemented  by  the  European 
Commission's  European  Innovation  Council  and  SMEs 
Executive Agency (EISMEA). 

International  Network  Partners  shall  participate  in  the 
Enterprise  Europe  Network  on  a  self-financing  basis. 
Numerous  governments  outside  the  European  Union 
have  committed  to  fund  the  participation  of  their  own 
national  organisations  in  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network.

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

5 

 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
           
 
 
02  Our business services 

The Network’s experts have the required experience and resources to 
help  businesses  innovate  and  grow.  They  advise  businesses  on  new 
market opportunities and on how to expand internationally. Learn more 
about  the  impact  of  our  services  and  inspiring  success  stories  on  the 
Network’s website at een.ec.europa.eu. 

Internationalisation 
We support businesses to enter 
international markets and to seize 
new commercial opportunities 

EU Single market 
We help businesses navigate EU 
legislation and benefit from the vast 
opportunities offered by the EU 
Single Market 

. 

Innovation 
We enhance businesses’ potential 
to innovate, grow and develop 
disruptive products and services 

Business, technology and 
R&D Partnering 
We match companies with the right 
business partners and promote new 
technologies globally 

Resilience 
We empower businesses by 
building up their agility and 
resilience to potential future 
challenges 

Access to finance 
We help businesses to identify 
different sources of finance and to 
build up investor readiness 

Access to EU funding 
We identify EU funding 
opportunities and offer guidance 
to businesses how to apply 

Digitalisation 
We help to tailor digital solutions to 
specific business needs 

Sustainability 
We guide our business clients in 
their transition to more sustainable 
business models 

6 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
03  The Network’s client journey  approach 

                                                                                                                                                                                                      © Copyright IStock 

The Hub and Spoke Model 
One  of  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network's  main 
strengths  lies  in  its  collective  expertise  and 
knowledge.  To  maximise  this  experience  for 
clients, our experts operate under the ‘hub-and-
spoke’  model,  where  all  organisations  and 
external  stakeholder  pool  resources  to  provide 
top-notch, customised services.  

functions 

independently 

Each  Enterprise  Europe  Network  partner 
but 
organisation 
collaborates towards a common goal: delivering 
exceptional  support  to  clients.  Organisations 
work  together  seamlessly,  sharing  resources 
and  expertise  to  ensure  every  client  receives 
the best possible service.  

The Network’s Client-Centric approach 
The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  thrives  on  a 
client-centric  approach,  focusing  on  specific 
business needs and goals. This means crafting 
services  from  the  perspective  of  businesses, 
addressing  all  possible 
challenges  and 
opportunities.  The  main  objective  is  to  build 
strong, 
the 
Enterprise Europe Network clients. 

impactful  relationships  with  all 

The Network Client Journey 
The  Network  client  journey,  enhanced  by  our 
tailored services, offers a clearly defined growth 
path  to  businesses.  From  initial  contact  to 
the 
achieving  pre-defined  business  goals, 
Enterprise  Europe  Network  supports  clients  in 
every stage of their growth journey.  

Tailor-made services 
Our  services  are  customised  to  the  specific 
needs  of  businesses.  Our  experts  propose 
the  key 
detailed  action  plans 
players, timelines, steps and targets to address 
the requirements of our clients. 

that  outline 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
04  Our sectoral expertise 

The Enterprise Europe Network offers unparalleled access to Europe's diverse industrial eco-
systems, providing expertise across a wide range of sectors to drive businesses forward. Our 
experts  possess  a  profound  outreach  and  deep  knowledge  in  these  specific  industries, 
working  collaboratively  to  meet  the  needs  of  business  clients.  Groups  of  experts  cover  the 
following industrial ecosystems:  

Aerospace  &  Defence,  Agri-food,  Construction,  Creative  &  Cultural  Industries,  Digital, 
Electronics,  Energy  Intensive  Industries,  Health,  Maritime,  Mobility-Transport-Automotive, 
Proximity & Social Economy, Renewable Energy, Retail, Tourism and Textiles. 

Thematic Expertise of the Enterprise Europe Network 

Beyond  sector-specific  support,  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  offers  invaluable  insights 
through so-called Thematic Groups. These groups consist of experts dedicated to enhancing 
our  business  services  and  the  overall  experience  for  clients.  For  example,  they  focus  on 
navigating  the  EU  Single  Market  successfully,  helping  businesses  to  get  expert  advice  on 
how to expand across Europe. 

Focus areas   

Tourism 

Creative & Cultural 
Industries 

Aerospace & Defence 

Textiles 

Construction 

Electronics 

Mobility Transport 
Automotive 

Energy-Intensive 
Industries 

Renewable Energy 

Agri-Food 

Health 

Digital 

Maritime Industries 
& Services 

Retail 

Proximity & 
Social Economy 

Scale-ups 

Access to finance 

Access to EU funding 

Communication 

Digitalisation 

Internationalisation 

Quality 

Innovation 

Business partnering 

Resilience 

Research  

EU Single Market 

Start-ups 

Sustainability 

Women 
Entrepreneurship 

8 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
      05  Why do business in Europe? 

The European economy 
The  EU  boasts  an  impressive  economic 
performance,  with  its  GDP  reaching  around 
€16 trillion in 2023. This positions the EU as 
one of the largest economies, accounting for 
some 17% of total global GDP.  
The  EU  Single  Market  covers  major 
economies  such  as  Germany,  France,  Italy, 
Spain or Poland, and encompasses over 450 
million  consumers,  enabling  free  movement 
of  goods,  services,  capital,  and  people 
across  Europe.  This  integration  fosters  a 
competitive  business  environment,  reduces 
innovation  and  economic 
costs,  driving 
scale  more 
can 
growth.  Businesses 
efficiently,  benefiting 
from  harmonised 
regulations and a vast customer base. 
robust  economic 
The  EU  demonstrates 
growth,  despite  major  global  challenges. 
the  region's 
This  resilience  underscores 
economic 
innovative 
and 
capabilities. 

stability 

         © Copyright iStock 

Through various free trade agreements, the 
EU is closely aligned with major economies 
such  as  Japan,  Korea,  Singapore  and  the 
United  Kingdom.  The  EU  remains  an 
economic  powerhouse,  influencing  global 
economic  trends  and  providing  substantial 
opportunities  for  businesses  and  investors 
alike.  

World  class  research  and  cutting-edge 
green technologies 

leading 

investment 

Europe  is  at  the  forefront  of  world-class 
research, 
into 
innovations  &  green  technologies.  Via  the 
Horizon Europe programme, the EU invests 
heavily  in  R&D,  driving  advancements  in 
renewable  energy  &  other  disruptive 
technologies.  This 
leadership 
cements the EU’s role as one of the global 
sustainability champions.  

research 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
06  Joining the Network: what’s in it 
for your organisation? 

The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  is  a  network  of  excellence.  It  offers 
organisations  the  opportunity  to  be  part  of  a  unique  international  business 
support platform connecting major trade blocks and even entire continents. 
Becoming  an  International  Network  Partner  of  the  Enterprise  Europe 
Network  will  help  your  business  clients  access  new  markets  and  find 
commercial partners in Europe.  

© Copyright EISMEA 

Join the Enterprise Europe Network and unlock a world 
of opportunities for your business clients: 

  Collaborate with our experts: become part of a vibrant 
community of over 3000 professional Enterprise Europe 
Network  advisors  across  Europe, 
including  sector-
renowned specialists. 
  Forge  preferential 

relationships:  connect  with 
Europe’s  top  organisations  to  help  your  clients  find 
business partners within the EU and beyond. 

  Expand  your  outreach:  enhance  your  clients’  visibility 
among  European  businesses,  pioneering  cutting-edge 
industrial and green technologies for global markets. 
  Access  exclusive  business  events:  enjoy  privileged 
access  to  onsite  and  virtual  events  at  major  business 
fairs across Europe. 

  Join  a  thriving  business  matchmaking  network: 
establish  long-lasting  commercial  partnerships  through 
a  dynamic  expert  network  and  our  virtual  marketplace, 
which  facilitates  thousands  of  international  business 
deals every year. 

  Boost  staff  expertise:  build  up  your  team's  capacity 
through  mentoring  from  experienced  Enterprise Europe 
Network  advisors  and  gain  free  access  to  specialised 
trainings and good practices. 

   Promote  your  services  and  events:  advertise  your 
services  and  events  or  trade  missions  to  thousands  of 
businesses across Europe. 

these  opportunities 

Seize  all 
the  growth 
prospects of your business clients and connect with leading 
business support organisations in Europe! 

to  elevate 

10 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
07  How to express your 
interest to join 

W 

If  you  want  to  join  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network,  read  the 
instructions  below  to  find  out  how  to  submit  your  expression  of 
interest. Demonstrate your capacity to deliver added value business 
services and outline how the participation in the Enterprise Europe 
Network will align with your organisation’s priorities. 

                To express your interest, follow the steps below: 

  Read this brochure carefully, especially the annex detailing the terms of reference for 
the  open  invitation  below.  Consider  whether  the  priorities  of  the  Enterprise  Europe 
Network align with your organisation's mandate and explore potential synergies. 
  Pitch  the  benefits  of  participating  in  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  to  your 
organisation’s executive management, president and/or relevant heads of department to 
discuss  the  prospects  of  joining  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network.  If  you  need  any 
clarifications, get in touch with us at EISMEA-EEN-INTER@ec.europa.eu.  

 

Identify potential partners in your region or country to ensure comprehensive coverage 
of all Enterprise Europe Network services and activities. 

  Reach out to the EU Delegation in your region or country to request an official letter of 

support. 

  Consult with your national policymakers and funding authorities to see if you qualify 
for  financial  support.  Alternatively,  develop  a  business  model  that  convincingly 
demonstrates  your financial  capacity to  participate in the  Enterprise Europe Network  in 
the coming years. 

  Describe  how  you  will implement  Enterprise  Europe Network  activities  and  services, 
using our official online form: https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/Open-Invitation-SMP-
EEN-INP.  Highlight  your  operational  capacity  and  staff  expertise,  demonstrating  why 
your organisation is a natural fit for the Enterprise Europe Network.  

  Submit your expression of interest. We will then assess all submissions and provide 
feedback within 1-2 months. We reserve the right not to accept an expression of interest 
if we determine that the impact on European businesses would be minimal. 

  Get  ready  to  meet  with  us  online.  We  may  decide  to  invite  organisations  for  online 
interviews to clarify certain aspects of their expressions of interest and/or to get to know 
the staff assigned to work with the Enterprise Europe Network.  

  Sign  an  agreement  with  us.  If  your  expression  of  interest  is  successful,  we  offer  you 
the signature of a ‘Cooperation Agreement’ stipulating the conditions of our collaboration 
(see model agreement in annex below). 

Express your interest to join the Enterprise Europe Network 

11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Join the Enterprise Europe Network as 
International Network Partner 

Do you want to know more? 

Get in touch with us: EISMEA-EEN-INTER@ec.europa.eu 

European Innovation Council and SMEs 
Executive Agency (EISMEA) 
Established by the European Commission 
Unit I-02. SMP / COSME Pillar 
Enterprise Europe Network 
SB34 / 1049 Brussels 
Belgium 

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publication. More information on the European Union is available on the Internet (http://www.europa.eu). 
Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2024 

ISBN: 978-92-9469-925-1 
DOI: 10.2826/5426531 
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Version July 2024  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annex  Terms of Reference & 
model Cooperation Agreement 

EUROPEAN INNOVATION COUNCIL AND SMES 

EXECUTIVE AGENCY (EISMEA) 

SINGLE MARKET PROGRAMME 

Version 1.0 

History of changes 

Version 
Version 1.0 
- 

Changes made 
Publication 
- 

Date 
1  October 2024 
- 

1. 

INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................14 

1.1. 
1.1. 
1.2. 
1.3. 

THE PURPOSE OF THE OPEN INVITATION .......................................................14 
THE CONTEXT OF THE OPEN INVITATION .......................................................14 
THE ENTERPRISE EUROPE NETWORK .........................................................14 
INTERNATIONAL NETWORK PARTNERS ........................................................14 

2.  STRUCTURE OF THE INTERNATIONAL NETWORK PARTNERS .............15 

2.1.  ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ...................................................................15 
2.2.  CLIENT-CENTRIC APPROACH ......................................................................15 
SECTORAL AND THEMATIC SPECIALISATION..................................................16 
2.3. 

3.  SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES ........................................................................16 

3.1.  ACTIVITY 1: PROVISION OF VALUE-ADDED SERVICES TO BUSINESSES .............16 
3.2.  ACTIVITY 2: PROMOTION OF THE NETWORK AND COMMUNICATION .................17 
3.3.  ACTIVITY 3: NETWORK DEVELOPMENT, CAPACITY BUILDING AND QUALITY 
MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................................18 

4.  MEASURING PERFORMANCE ....................................................................18 

5.  REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL NETWORK PARTNERS ............20 

ELIGIBLE PARTICIPANTS .............................................................................20 
5.1. 
5.2. 
TYPE OF ORGANISATIONS SOUGHT ..............................................................20 
5.3.  GEOGRAPHICAL COVERAGE .......................................................................21 
5.4.  COOPERATION WITH EUROPEAN NETWORK PARTNERS .................................21 
5.5.  ORGANISATIONAL COMPETENCES ...............................................................21 
STAFF COMPETENCES ................................................................................21 
5.6. 

6.  TIMETABLE ...................................................................................................22 

7.  SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................22 

8.  ASSESSMENT AND ADMISSION PROCEDURE .........................................22 

8.1. 
8.2. 
8.3. 
8.4. 

EXCLUSION CRITERIA .................................................................................22 
SIGNATURE OF THE COOPERATION AGREEMENT ..........................................23 
STARTING DATE AND DURATION ..................................................................23 
ETHICS & SECURITY ..................................................................................23 

9. DATA PROTECTION .........................................................................................23 

10. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND POINT OF CONTACT ......................23 

APPENDIX – DESCRIPTION OF CLIENT CENTRIC APPROACH AND CLIENT 
JOURNEY INTERACTIONS ..................................................................................23 

APPENDIX – MODEL COOPERATION AGREEMENT .........................................25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1. 

INTRODUCTION 

1.1. 

The purpose of the open invitation 

This  open  invitation  to  join  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  (‘the  Network’)  as  International 
Network Partner covers the period from 1 July 2025 until 31 December 2028. The invitation 
is published by the European Innovation Council and SME Executive Agency (EISMEA) 
(‘the  Agency’),  established  by  and  acting  on  behalf  of  the  European  Commission, 
Directorate-General  for  Internal  Market,  Industry,  Entrepreneurship  and  SMEs1  (‘the 
European Commission’). 

This invitation addresses exclusively organisations under Article 9(3)(a) of the Single Market 
Programme  (SMP)  Regulation2,  who  will  participate  in  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  on  a 
self-financing  basis.  These  organisations  will  be  referred  to  as  ‘International  Network 
Partners’.  Organisations  interested  to  join  the  Network  must  neither  be  established  in  the 
European  Union  (‘EU’)  nor  in  countries  associated  to  the  SMP  under  Article  5  of  the  SMP 
Regulation3. Organisations from those countries have to apply to a call for proposals4 and are 
referred to in this invitation as ‘European Network Partners’. 

Together  with  the  European  Commission,  the  Agency  will  select  International  Network 
Partners.  To  this  end,  suitable  organisations  are  invited  to  express  their  interest  to  join  the 
Network,  describing  their  approach  to  deliver  Network  activities  and  services,  considering 
opportunities and distinct challenges businesses face in their respective countries or regions. 
The  Agency  will  sign  Cooperation  Agreements  with  selected  organisations,  meeting  the 
required conditions outlined below. 

1.1. 

The context of the open invitation 

The  European  Union  (EU)  has  embarked  on  a  major  transformation  to  a  more  sustainable, 
digital,  and  resilient  modern  economy.  The  24  million  small  and  medium-sized  enterprises 
(‘SMEs’)  in  the  EU  are  at  the  heart  of  this  transformation  as  they  represent  99%  of  all 
businesses, provide two-thirds of jobs in the private sector, and are deeply embedded in local 
communities. Innovative and export-oriented SMEs are leading this transformation. 

Nevertheless,  many  SMEs  are  daunted  by  the  complexity  of  this  transformation.  They  face 
continued barriers in doing cross-border business and they struggle to access the finance and 
support  they  need  to  innovate  and  commercialise.  They  can  find  it  difficult  to  identify 
commercial  partners  to  develop  products  and  markets.  And  they  face  major  uncertainties, 
supply constraints and labour shortages. 

Over the past years, the European Commission has acted forcefully to help SMEs overcome 
these challenges, strengthening their ability to innovate and internationalise, including through 
the  Enterprise  Europe  Network.  In  a  complex  global  geopolitical  scenario,  the  European 
Commission  aims  now  to  promote  a  strategic  autonomy,  strengthening  businesses  and 
ensuring  sustainable  supply  chains  by  reducing  dependence  on  single  risky  suppliers  and 
diversifying trade  partnerships.  This  effort  includes  enhancing  cooperation  with  reliable third 
countries, as envisaged by this open invitation. 

1.2. 

The Enterprise Europe Network 

The Enterprise Europe Network helps SMEs innovate and grow in the EU Single Market (‘the 
Single  Market’)  and  beyond.  It  is  the  world’s  largest  service  provider  for  SMEs  with 

1 https://ec.europa.eu/growth/index_en.   
2 Regulation (EU) No 2021/690 of the European Parliament and the  Council of 28 April 2021 establishing a programme for the internal  market, competitiveness of enterprises,  including 
small and medium-sized enterprises, the area of plants, animals, food and feed, and European statistics (Single Market Programme) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 99/2013, (EU) No 
1287/2013, (EU) No 254/2014 and (EU) No 652/2014 (OJ L 153, 3.5.2021, p. 1–47). 
3 The list of third countries associated to the SMP is available here: list-3rd-country-participation_smp_en.pdf (europa.eu) 
4 EU Funding & Tenders Portal (europa.eu) 

international  ambitions.  Since  its  launch  in  2008,  the  Network  has  played  a  crucial  role  in 
facilitating the access of SMEs to the Single Market and important markets in Asia, Oceania, 
Africa  and the  Americas  where  the  Network  is  present  and  in  providing  integrated  business 
and innovation support services to help them grow.  

Over  the  last  16  years,  the  Network  has  delivered  an  impressive  number  of  services  with 
significant  impact  in  terms  of  market  positioning,  cost  savings  and  job  creation  for  SMEs. 
Over  800  companies  receive  services  of  the  Network  every  day  and  92%  of  them  are 
satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of this support. Network supports on average daily 
112 enterprises with in-depth tailored advisory services and 525 enterprises with specialised 
guidance  and trainings. Every single  day these services  lead  to  the signature  of  5  business 
deals.  The  Enterprise  Europe  Network  is  represented  in  over  40  countries  and  one  of  the 
largest support platforms in the world for businesses with international ambitions. 

A  core  part  of  the  Network’s  success  has  been  its  willingness  to  continuously  raise  its 
standards  and  evolve  to  meet  new  challenges  and  opportunities,  most  recently  through  the 
introduction of services in areas such as sustainability, digitalisation, resilience, and support 
for  scale-ups.  With  the  current  Network’s  mandate  due  to  expire  in  June  2025,  the 
Commission  and  the  Agency  launched  a  call  for  proposals  in  April  2024  under  the 
Competitiveness  of  Enterprises  and  SMEs  pillar  of  the  SMP  to  identify  client-oriented 
business  support  organisations  based  in  the  EU  and  in  those  countries  associated  to  the 
SMP5, referred to in this open invitation as ‘European Network Partners’.  

1.3. 

International Network Partners 

A  key  part  of  the  Network’s  strength  has  been  its  ability  to  connect  European  SMEs  with 
potential  partners  in  third  countries  through  a  network  of  ‘International  Network  Partners’ 
(‘INPs’) outside the EU, based on common interest and mutual benefit. Over the period of the 
current  Network,  these  INPs  have  offered  market  information  and  partnership  support 
services  to  enhance  business  cooperation,  technology  transfer,  innovation  and  where 
applicable  research  collaboration  between  SMEs  established  in  the  EU  (and  SMP 
participating countries) and those operating in their respective third countries.  

INPs  help  their  clients  connect  with  European  SMEs  who  are  in  many  cases  world  market 
leaders in their industries, e.g., agri-food, automotive, digital technologies, biotech, or textiles 
&  fashion.  These  highly  innovative  European  companies  are  keen  to  find  reliable  business 
partners in fast growing international markets. 

Specifically,  becoming  an  INP  will  mean  tapping  into  the  strengths  of  the  Network,  and  so 
being able to: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Cooperate with a community of more than 3,000 professional Network advisors in 
Europe, including thematic experts, and across industrial ecosystems; 

Establish a preferential relationship with Europe’s leading business organisations in 
the Network to help their clients find business partners in the EU; 

Improve  the  outreach  towards  European  businesses  that  are  developing  cutting-
edge and green technologies, and producing high-quality products and services; 

▪  Get  privileged  access  to  online  and  onsite  events  organised  by  the  Network  at 

major business events and fairs in Europe6;  

▪ 

Join  a  dynamic  matchmaking  network  to  establish  long-lasting  commercial 
partnerships  between  European  businesses  and  their  clients.  Every  year  the 

5 EU Funding & Tenders Portal (europa.eu) 
6 See Network Events Calendar for samples of past and upcoming events: https://een.ec.europa.eu/events?f%5B0%5D=field_eventstartdate%3Anext_year 

14 

 
 
 
 
Network  facilitates  thousands  of  international  business  deals  within  the  EU  and 
beyond; 

▪ 

▪ 

Build up staff capacity to support businesses through mentoring from experienced 
European  Network  Partners,  benefiting  from  free  access  to  specialised  Network 
trainings and transfer of good practices; 

Promote  events  or trade missions  to thousands  of  businesses  across Europe  and 
beyond. 

Countries currently covered by the Enterprise Europe Network 

Becoming  an  INP  comes  without  any  financial  support  from  the  side  of  the  European 
Commission or the Agency. INPs need to demonstrate that they possess a viable business 
model and the necessary funding to join Network events and deliver services. 

2.  STRUCTURE OF THE INTERNATIONAL 

NETWORK PARTNERS 

2.1. 

Organisational structure 

Organisations  interested  in  joining  the  Network  should  have  an  outstanding  track  record  in 
providing  business  support  services  to  companies  in  areas  such  as  internationalisation, 
innovation,  digitalisation  as  well  as  environmental  and social  sustainability.  They must  have 
the  required  organisational  competences  and  skilled  staff  to  deliver  tailor-made  services  to 
local  and  European  businesses.  INPs  usually  group  into  consortia  of  maximum  3 
organisations7 to ensure that all services outlined in this open invitation can be provided to 
businesses in a particular region or country.  

Expressions  of  interest  from  a single  organisation  can  be  accepted  provided they  cover  the 
full range of services within their country or region. The organisations part of the consortium 
will  become  the  official  Network  branch  in  their  region  or  country.  The  names  of  these 
organisations will feature on the official webpage of the Network and their staff will be granted 

full access rights to the Network IT platform. 

If it is considered beneficial, a consortium may collaborate with additional local cooperation 
partners.  These  additional  organisations  should  commit  to  assist  the  consortium  providing 
Network  services  in  the  country  or  region  covered,  e.g.  organising  matchmaking  events  or 
trade  missions.  However,  these  local  cooperation  partners  will  neither  sign  the  Cooperation 
Agreement  nor  have  access  to  the  Network  IT  tools  and  community  platform.  The  project 
coordinator  needs  to  ensure  that  these  non-contractual  local  cooperation  partners  are 
systematically informed and integrated into the consortium’s activities. 

Organisations  expressing  their  interest  to  join  the  Network  should  describe  how  already 
existing  activities  can  be  linked  to  Network  services  to  generate  synergies  for  local 
businesses  and  build  partnerships  with  European  companies 
to  exploit  commercial 
opportunities.  Most  importantly,  selected  INPs  must  commit  an  adequate  level  of  their  own 
financial and human resources to fulfil their role within the Network. 

INPs must be able to provide: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Internationalisation support and partnering services, via market access advice 
and  matchmaking  services  including  technology  transfer,  and  at  least  basic 
advisory services aimed at helping SMEs meet regulatory requirements and benefit 
from  Free  Trade  Agreements  (‘FTAs’)8  or  other  commercial  agreements  signed 
between their country and the EU; 

Innovation  support,  i.e.  offering  services  to  highly  innovative  SMEs,  including 
those  who  want  to  embrace  digitalisation  and  adopt  more  sustainable  business 
models; 

Research collaboration services, i.e. support industry-academia and business-to-
business R&D as well as cross-border innovation and technology cooperation. This 
includes advice for SMEs or other Network clients to participate in major European 
research programmes such as Horizon Europe or Eureka. 

Organisations  need  to  ensure  that  staff  assigned  to  the  Network  (referred  to  as  ‘Network 
advisors’) have the required qualifications to fulfil their tasks to the highest quality standards.  

Each  consortium  must  appoint  one  organisation  as  ‘project  coordinator’.  The  project 
coordinator  is  the  first  point  of  contact  for  the  Agency  regarding  contractual  or  operational 
issues. The project coordinator ensures the smooth functioning of the consortium.  

The project coordinator has the responsibility to oversee the implementation of the work plan, 
monitor whether all partners are on track to achieve their set performance targets and liaise 
with the Agency whenever appropriate. The project coordinator shall also ensure that all other 
important  stakeholders  in  the  local  innovation  eco-system  know  about  upcoming  Network 
events and cooperate with the consortium.  

Project  coordinators  will  regularly  meet  in  dedicated  ‘INP  Coordinators  Group’  meetings 
chaired by the European Commission and the Agency. These meetings are organised online 
or  onsite.  During  these  meetings,  coordinators  exchange  information  and  best  practices, 
receive  relevant  updates  from  the  European  Commission  and  the  Agency,  and  provide 
feedback on needs and challenges they face. 

2.2. 

Client-centric approach 

The  Network’s  clients  are  typically  SMEs9,  and  innovative  start-ups,  ready  to  scale  their 

7 Exceptions are possible in -well justified cases but it needs to be agreed upon with the Agency. 

8 https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/eu-trade-relationships-country-and-region/countries-and-regions_en  
9 SME definition - European Commission (europa.eu) 

15 

 
 
 
 
 
activities internationally and with the ambition to improve and take a leading position through 
product,  service  or  process  innovation.  Network  services  may  also  be  extended  to  other 
organisations,  including  clusters10  and  larger  corporations,  if  doing  so  would  benefit  local 
SMEs. Throughout this document, the target group will be referred to as ‘Network clients’. 

The  Network  is  built  on  a  client-centric  approach.  This  means  designing  services  from  the 
client’s perspective, with a focal point identifying the needs and ensuring close follow-up with 
the  client,  with  the  overall  aim  to  generate  concrete  impact  for  the  SMEs.  The  ‘Network 
Client  Journey’  includes  all  relationships  and  interactions  between  Network  partners  and 
their  client  SMEs  via  the  so-called  ‘hub  and  spoke’  approach.  The  example  below 
showcases  the  client  journey  for  a  Network  client.  INPs  should  follow  the  same  service 
process  for  their  local  businesses  and  support  European  Network  Partners  helping  their 
clients. 

Flow chart of Network client journey 

2.3. 

Sectoral and thematic specialisation  

Knowledge  about  sectoral/industrial  eco-systems  remains  a  key  asset  of  the  Network. 
‘Sector  Groups’  gather  Network  advisors  with  background  and  experience  in  specific 
industrial  sectors  or  ecosystems  who  commit  to  work  together  to  meet  the  needs  of  SME 
clients operating in this area. 

INPs  need  to  take  part  in  ‘Sector  Groups’  focusing  on  industrial  ecosystems11  in  their 
region/country  relevant  to  their  clients’  needs.  Sector  Groups  cover  the  following  industrial 
ecosystems:  Aerospace  &  Defence,  Agri-food,  Construction,  Creative  &  Cultural  Industries, 
Digital,  Electronics,  Energy 
Industries,  Health,  Maritime,  Mobility-Transport-
Automotive, Proximity & Social Economy, Renewable Energy, Retail, Tourism, and Textile.  

Intensive 

Participation in Sector Groups may be facilitated, particularly for INPs based in remote third 
countries,  using  appropriate  IT  platforms  and  virtual  matchmaking  tools,  enabling  the 
establishment of virtual marketplaces, brokerage events as well as company missions.12 

In  addition  to  these  sectoral  issues,  further  cross-cutting  topics  are  addressed  by  the 
Network’s  ‘Thematic  Groups’.  These  groups  are  composed  of  Network  advisors  with  a 
particular expertise and aim at improving the quality of Network services, e.g. on how to do 
business in the Single Market and beyond, as well as research & innovation support,  helping 

SMEs  to  become  more  sustainable  and  digital.  INPs  should  support  the  activities  of  the 
Thematic Group ‘SME Internationalisation’. They may join further Thematic Groups if they 
deem them relevant to their activities. 

3.  SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES 

INPs will carry out the following activities: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Activity 1: Provision of value-added services to businesses 

Activity 2: Promotion of the Network and communication  

Activity 3: Network development, capacity building and quality management 

Individual partners in a consortium are not obliged to carry out all activities. The combination 
of expertise, skills, and positioning of all partners in a consortium will guarantee that the full 
range of activities and services is provided in the region or country to be covered.  

3.1. 

Activity 1: Provision of value-added services to businesses  

The  Network's  main  aim  is to  provide value-added  services  that  help  companies  scale  their 
activities internationally and improve and take a leading position through product, service or 
process innovation. INPs will provide partnering and advisory services to their clients and with 
the  aim  of  building  partnerships  with  European  companies 
to  exploit  commercial 
opportunities.  

Partnering services  

Partnering  services  are  at the core  of the  Network’s service  portfolio.  The  aim  is to support 
Network clients to engage in cross-border 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

commercial cooperation;  

innovation partnerships as well as technology transfer; and 

research & development collaboration.  

As  an  important  part  of the  Network  Client Journey,  this support  covers the  identification  of 
suitable  partnering  opportunities  but  also  accompanying  advisory  services  to  ensure  a 
successful entry into new markets.  

The range of partnering services of INPs must include: 

▪  Organisation of international (onsite, online or hybrid) business matchmaking 
events,  including  sectorial  events,  company  missions  and  brokerage  events  and 
participation  in  large  international  fairs.  Such  events  should  be  organised  in 
cooperation  with  European  Network  partners.  The  focus  of  these  matchmaking 
events should be to facilitate international commercial and technology cooperation 
as  well  as 
in  European  research 
programmes. 

forming  consortia 

joint  participation 

for 

This also includes the mobilisation of local clusters, supporting cluster-to-business 
and  business-to-business  brokerage  events 
framework  of  cluster 
matchmaking  events  organised  with  third  countries  by  the  European  Cluster 
Collaboration Platform13 or other cluster support actors.  

the 

in 

10https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/industry/cluster-policy_en#:~:text=Clusters%20are%20groups%20of%20firms,%2C%20resources%2C%20suppliers%20and%20skills.  
11 European industrial strategy - European Commission (europa.eu) 
12 Certain Sector Group activities may only be open to participants from EU countries, in particular where security issues are at stake (e.g. defence). 

13 https://clustercollaboration.eu/  

16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
▪ 

Support  for  international  trade  missions.  This  includes  the  identification  of 
potential local business partners for European companies. There should be a joint 
effort  among  all  INPs  to  help  businesses  take  full  advantage  of  preferential  trade 
arrangements  linked  to  FTAs  signed  by  the  European  Commission  with  their 
respective third countries. 

All  events,  company  and  trade  missions  organised  or  supported  by  INPs  need  to  be 
published  in  the  Network’s  official  calendar14  and  promoted  via  relevant  social  media 
platforms to reach the target audience.  

Moreover,  INPs  are  expected  contributing  to  the  organisation  of  various  other  business-
related events such as pitching contests and corporate events for SMEs focusing on specific 
technology challenges by larger companies. In addition, INPs are encouraged to put forward 
innovative ideas for new types of events and partnering services. 

▪  Generation  of  business  and  technology  partnerships  via  the  Network  IT 

platform15 and other online tools used by the Network. This includes: 

- 

- 

- 

- 

in-depth analysis of local Network clients’ needs and capacities and drafting of 
partnering  profiles  (technology  and  business  offers  and  requests)  to  be 
published in the Network IT platform;  

identifying profiles that suit Network clients’ needs and creating expressions of 
interest on their behalf to be published in the Network IT platform; 

disseminating profiles entered by European Network Partners in the Network 
IT  platform  to  local  companies  and  potential  business  partners,  as  well  as 
active search for matching companies; 

preparing local Network clients for meetings with potential European business 
partners. 

The  delivery  of  partnering  services  may  evolve  over  the  coming  years.  All  INPs  should 
therefore  adapt  their  services  to  changing  needs  of  their  Network  clients  throughout  the 
programme period.  

Advisory services  

INPs must provide at least basic advisory services on innovation, internationalisation, national 
regulations,  FTAs  and,  where  applicable,  European  research  programmes.  The  following 
topics are part of the range of advisory services: 

▪ 

Capacity building, including:  

- 

Tailor-made  advice  for  businesses  to  overcome  barriers  to  innovation  and 
internationalisation and help them to find suitable business partners in the EU 
and/or countries associated to the SMP; 

-  Business  and  innovation  reviews  to  identify  Network clients’  business  and 
technology  needs,  and  then  to  publish  requests  or  offers  via  the  Network  IT 
platform; 

-  Business  peer-to-peer  learning  offering  the  opportunity  to  companies  to 
meet with their peers from around the world and to exchange their knowledge 
and experience. 

▪ 

Internationalisation, including: 

-  Advisory services to help local Network clients and companies find business 

partners and identify business opportunities abroad; 

- 

- 

Exchange  of  market  information  with  European  Network  Partners  and 
European  industry  clusters  about  their  home  market.  This  should  include 
information on (industrial) standards, intellectual property rights, public tenders 
open 
international  bidders,  safety  regulations,  sanitary  certification 
requirements as well as other market regulations.  

to 

This  could  also  take  the  form  of  signposting  to  national  authorities  and/or 
information portals, and if necessary, to other reliable service providers in the 
country;  

Trade  related  services  helping  local  Network  clients  and  companies  to 
includes 
benefit 
signposting  and/or  facilitating  contacts  with  national  customs  authorities  or 
other trusted services providers in the country (if necessary).  

from  preferential  arrangements 

to  FTAs.  This 

linked 

▪ 

Innovation, including:  

- 

Innovation  advisory  services  to  facilitate  international  technology  transfer 
agreements;  and  to  raise  awareness  on  intellectual  property  protection  and 
help businesses valorise their intellectual assets at international level; 

▪ 

Research & development, including:  

-  Advisory  services  helping  Network  clients  to  engage  in  bi-lateral  and  cross 

boarder R&D and technology cooperation; 

- 

(where applicable) support to access European research funding available 
under the Horizon Europe research programme or Eureka. This also includes 
awareness-raising events as well as competence building workshops focusing 
on hands-on advice to prepare quality proposals. These events should then be 
organised in close cooperation with Horizon Europe National Contact Points16. 

Research support services are particularly relevant to INPs located in countries associated to 
Horizon  Europe17  and/or  affiliated  to  Eureka18.  The  expression  of  interest  should  highlight 
whether  the  country  is  already  associated  or  whether  national  policy  makers  are  likely  to 
make a request to join the research programme in the near future. 

3.2. 

Activity 2: Promotion of the Network and communication 

INPs must give adequate visibility to the Network and promote it and its services among local 
businesses  and  multipliers.  This  must  incorporate  the  regular  use  of  cost-effective  external 
tools  and,  communication 
communication 
partnerships with national media or business associations or clusters with a wide reach into 
the local business community. 

including  social  media  and  online 

tools, 

Success stories are a powerful communication tool to share experiences, inspire, and engage 
others.  Furthermore,  stories  promote  and  increase  the  visibility  of  the  Network  towards  the 
stakeholders  and  the  public.  INPs  must  use  success  stories  showcasing  how  the  Network 
generates  impact  for  local  businesses.  Each  consortium  is  expected  to  produce  at  least  3 

14 https://een.ec.europa.eu/events?f%5B0%5D=event_date%3Agt%7C2024-05-22T15%3A51%3A09%2B02%3A00 

15 https://een.ec.europa.eu/partnering-opportunities 

16 National Contact Points - Funding & tenders (europa.eu) 
17https://ec.europa.eu/info/research-and-innovation/strategy/support-policy-making/shaping-eu-research-and-innovation-policy/evaluation-impact-assessment-and-monitoring/horizon-
europe_en   
18 https://eurekanetwork.org/ 

17 

 
 
 
 
 
 
success stories19 within the contractual period of up to 3.5 years. 

INPs  are  required  to  fully  adhere  to  the  Network's  specific  branding  rules  for  INPs  for  all 
Network  related  publications,  electronic  communication  products,  posters,  programmes  and 
other communication and event materials according to the templates and support on how to 
use the branding tools that will be provided by the Agency.  

INPs must establish an easy way to be contacted. This could be an e-mail address such as 
‘info@consortium-web-address’  or  other  suitable  channels.  Whichever  channel  is  chosen,  it 
should be monitored every day and enquiries sent to it should be instantly forwarded to the 
most appropriate consortium partner. 

All  Network  advisors  must  regularly  connect to the  Network IT  platform to interact  with  their 
European counterparts. Through the Network directory, Network advisors should display their 
professional experience and contact details. 

The expression of interest needs to include a clear communication strategy explaining how 
the  INP  consortium  plans  to  attract  businesses  in  the  region/country,  while  enhancing  the 
Network’s visibility and outreach. This strategy should include objectives, targeted audiences, 
key messages, proposed tools and social media channels. INPs should commit to: 

give  adequate  visibility  to  the  Network  and  its  services  within  their  own 
organisations; 

feature the Network name and logo on the official website of their organisations and 
to promote Network-related content on their organisation’s social media platform; 

follow the Network's branding guidelines, and the more specific guidelines for INPs; 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Participate  in  trainings,  webinars  and  workshops  organised  by  the  Agency,  the 
European Commission or European Network Partners; 

Act  as  a  trainer  or  speaker  in  Network  trainings,  webinars,  workshops  and  at  the 
Network’s Annual Conference; 

▪  Organise trainings  and  webinars  for  European  Network  Partners,  industry clusters 
and  their  clients,  e.g.,  on  business  opportunities,  research  and  innovation  topics, 
local business culture; 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Attend  the  Network’s  Annual  Conference.  Active  participation  is  essential  for 
establishing  one's  presence  within  the  Network  and  find  European  Network 
partners with whom to co-organise matchmaking events or trade missions;  

Participate  in  peer-to-peer  learning  programmes  such  as  the  Network’s mentoring 
scheme  or  staff  exchanges.  Less  experienced  INPs  must  seek  support  from 
experienced European Network partners who will act as their mentor. The Agency 
will support INPs to identity suitable mentors; 

Share  quality content,  articles,  and  news  with  European  Network Partners  via the 
Network IT platform; 

Participate in consortium, national and regional meetings;  

Attend  meetings  of  the  INP  Coordinators  Group.  This  meeting  is  designed 
especially  for  project  coordinators  and  main  contacts/project  managers.  It  is  a 
unique  chance  for  INPs  to  meet  key  decision-makers  from  the  European 
Commission and Agency who will be updating them on important operational issues 
and policy matters. 

share at least 3 success stories with the Agency within the contractual period; 

4.  MEASURING PERFORMANCE  

Performance of the INPs will be measured using the following performance indicators: 

set up a Network website for the entire consortium featuring main sections both in 
English  and  in  the  language  of  the  country  where  the  international  consortium  is 
based. Alternatively, the INP consortium should at least set up a webpage on each 
of  their  organisations’  websites  highlighting  Network  services  and  events  and 
ensure  the  promotion  of  Network  related  content,  visibly  branded,  on  their 
organisations’ social media channels. 

3.3. 

Activity  3:  Network  development,  capacity  building  and  quality 
management 

Unique clients in 
the client journey 

Exchanging  knowledge  and  expertise  is  a  key  driver  for  the  high  service  quality  and  the 
success of the Network in terms of generating concrete impact for SMEs. For this reason, it is 
of crucial importance for INPs to dedicate adequate resources to collaborate with European 
Network  Partners.  All  Network  partners  should  seek  to  enhance  their  own  skills  and  share 
good practices and innovative service methodologies. 

The  Network’s  training  activities  aim  to  increase  the  competences  of  Network  advisors, 
reflecting  the  fact  that  the  strength  of  the  Network  lies  in  the  professionalisation  of  every 
individual, as well as in fostering the Network’s common capital of knowledge and expertise. 
For this reason, INPs should:  

Achievements 

▪ 

Seek  membership  in  Sector  or  Thematic  Groups  or  any  other  group  formally 
organised by the Network, the Agency and/or the European Commission; 

19 https://een.ec.europa.eu/success-stories  

This  performance  indicator  counts  the  number  of  unique  Network 
clients receiving tailor-made services based on needs assessment and 
drafted action plan. These are customised services to companies that 
have  already  started  their  Network  client  journey.  The  indicator 
measures  how  many  Network  clients  get  continuous  support.  The 
support  requires  close  ties  and  in-depth  knowledge  of  the  client’s 
situation  and  regularly  updated  needs  assessments  part  of  a  detailed 
action plan.  

indicator  captures 

This  performance 
the  Network’s  client  base 
receiving  impact-driven  support  through  services  as  described  in 
Activity  1.  All  services  delivered  to  Network  clients  are  aiming  at 
generating  Achievements  and  a  positive  impact  for  the  Network client 
on a short- and/or long-term perspective. 

This  performance  indicator  counts  the  number  of  Achievements  from 
Network partnering and advisory services. They result from tailor-made 
services with measurable impact for the Network client. This impact is 
associated with the company’s financial growth, i.e., increased market 
share, 
turnover,  optimised  costs  or  realised  savings, 
improved  quality  of  products,  services  or  processes,  new  product  or 
service innovations. The indicator captures the outcome of the Network 

increased 

18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
support to clients.  

Partnering Achievements  

INPs  must  generate  Partnering  Achievements  (PAs)20  with 
the 
contribution of at least one European Network Partner. PAs lead to 
a  positive  outcome  for  the  Network  clients  concerned.  They  mark  the 
successful  conclusion  of  a  concrete,  medium- 
long-term 
collaboration  between  a  client  of  the  INP  and  a  client  of  a  European 
Network  partner  (based  either  in  the  EU  or  country  associated  to  the 
SMP). The result of this collaboration is associated with considerable, 
measurable and/or identifiable impact for the Network client.  

to 

Examples:  

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Joint venture between Japanese and European company to 
develop  new  sustainable  chromium  plating  coating 
technologies. 

Commercial  agreement  between  US-based  business-to-
business  online  fashion  platform  and  European  clothing 
manufacturer. 

Research  &  Development  collaboration  between  South 
Korean and European companies to develop space satellite 
technologies.  

Advisory Achievements 

INPs  must  generate  Advisory  Achievements 
the 
contribution  of  at  least  one  European  Network  Partner.  Advisory 
Achievements lead to a positive outcome for the Network client. They 
facilitate  and  consequently  mark  the  successful  entry  to  a  market  or 
international presence of a Network client. The result is associated with 
considerable, measurable and/or identifiable impact for the client. 

(AAs)  with 

Advisory  services  may  cover  the  following  topics:  internationalisation, 
innovation,  participation  in  EU  research  and  innovation  programmes 
(such  as  Horizon  Europe),  intellectual  property  protection,  assistance 
for  participation  in  international  public  tenders,  support  to  exploit 
preferential  trade  terms  linked  to  a  FTA,  market  intelligence  (national 
rules  &  regulations,  standards,  certification  requirements,  opening  a 
branch,  etc.),  support  in  increasing  the  sustainability  performance  of 
the company, support with digitalisation of the business processes, or 
increased  resilience/preparedness  of  the  company  to  value  chain 
disruptions. 

Examples: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Award  of  funding  for  research  &  development  of  heart  rate 
algorithm measurement. 

Company  successfully  exports  organic  certified  horticulture 
seeds and eliminates tariff payments. 

Tailor  made  support  for  electronics  manufacturer  to  remain 

competitive and to enter a new market. 

Important: it should be noted that to reach Achievements, INPs need 
to have the contribution of at least one European Network Partner 
(via the hub and spoke model). Both Network partners will then report 
the  Achievement  together  in  the  Network  IT  platform.  Achievements 
have  a  clear  international  dimension  and  demonstrate  the  Network 
effect. They are important milestones in the Network client journey.  

In  line  with  the  terms  and  conditions  set  out  in  the  Cooperation 
Agreement,  the  Agency  cannot  consider  as  Achievements  positive 
outcomes  for  Network  clients  generated  between  two  different  INPs 
and without the support of at least one European Network Partner. The 
activities  and  services  of  INPs  need  to  target  the  EU  Single  Market 
and/or countries associated to SMP. 

Contribution to 
other Network 
partners’ client 
journeys  

This performance indicator counts the number of services provided to 
another  Network  partner’s  client  journey.  This  indicator  relates  to  the 
Network effect and captures the hub and spoke model. It measures the 
contribution  as  a  spoke  to  the  client  journey  of  another  Network 
partner. 

There are often situations encountered during the work of the Network 
advisor when he or she needs to reach out for expertise from Network 
colleagues  in  other  organisations  or  countries  to  address  client’s 
needs.  This  type  of  support  is  sought  with  the  aim  of  receiving 
professional support.  

All Network advisors are expected to provide support services to other 
Network  colleagues  in  matters  where  they  have  highly  skilled  or 
specialised competencies that can address the needs of that Network 
partner’s  client.  The  contribution  may  include  the  same  topics  as 
indicated under Achievements above. 

Success stories 

This  performance  indicator  counts  the  number  of  success  stories 
produced by the INPs for communication purposes. INPs are expected 
to  produce  at  least  three  success  stories  involving  European  and 
local Network clients within the contractual period.  

INPs will set annual performance targets for the number of  

▪  Unique Network clients in the client journey;  

▪ 

▪ 

Achievements from Network partnering and advisory services; 

Success stories. 

The number of ‘contributions to other Network partners' client journeys’ will be monitored by 
the Agency via the Network IT platform. It is not necessary to set any specific yearly targets 
for this performance indicator. 

In addition, INPs should provide an estimate on the annual number of 

20 Partnership Achievements may be: business, technology transfer, or research PAs. 

19 

 
 
 
▪  Matchmaking  events  and/or  company  missions  they  will  support  and/or  organise 

and promote via the official Network Calendar21; 

▪ 

▪ 

Partnership  proposals  from  businesses  they  will  generate  and  promote  via  the 
Partnership Opportunity Market Place22; 

Expressions  of  interest  made  and  received  from  businesses  for  partnership 
proposals generated via the Partnership Opportunity Market Place.  

Each year, the Agency will assess the performance of the INPs. All partners in a consortium 
are  required  to  contribute  to  the  performance  of  the  Network.  Those  partners  whose 
performance remains below the set targets and significantly below Network averages will be 
offered  training  and  mentoring  support.  However,  repeated  failure  by  INPs  or  by  the  entire 
consortium  to  meet  the  set  targets  may  lead  to  the  discontinuation  of  the  Cooperation 
Agreement.  

The data collection for the different indicators for the performance monitoring of the INPs will 
be  automated  in  the  Network  IT  platform.  For  this  reason,  INPs  are  expected  to  regularly 
report their achievements in the Network IT platform and keep their information constantly up 
to date. 

5.  REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL 

NETWORK PARTNERS 

5.1. 

Eligible participants 

To be eligible for this open invitation, organisations must be: 

▪ 

Legal entities (public or private bodies); 

and must neither be established in an: 

▪ 

▪ 

EU Member State nor overseas country or territory linked to it; nor in 

A third country associated to the Single Market Programme23. 

Organisations must be based in countries and/or group of countries which: 

▪ 

▪ 

Have  an  established  SME-support  infrastructure  based  on  a  network  of  business 
support organisations serving SMEs in a defined geographical area; and 

Have strong commercial links with at least one EU Member State. 

Priority countries 

Priority will be given to expressions of interest from organisations in countries, which have: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

concluded  comprehensive  Free  Trade  Agreements  (FTAs),  economic  partnership 
agreements  and/or  investment  agreements  with  the  EU  or  are  at  an  advanced 
stage of negotiations24;  

concluded strategic agreements with the EU related to security of supply including 
of critical raw materials; and/or 

established  thriving  research  and  innovation  partnerships  (e.g.  via  participation  in 
European research programmes or cluster cooperation arrangements). 

21 https://een.ec.europa.eu/events?f%5B0%5D=event_date%3Agt%7C2024-05-24T15%3A16%3A18%2B02%3A00  
22 https://een.ec.europa.eu/partnering-opportunities  
23 The list of third countries associated to the SMP is available here: list-3rd-country-participation_smp_en.pdf (europa.eu) 
24 https://policy.trade.ec.europa.eu/eu-trade-relationships-country-and-region/countries-and-regions_en  

The European Commission and the Agency  reserve the right not to consider expressions of 
interest, 
the 
participation  of  INPs  in  accordance  with  the  political  priorities  and  founding  values  of  the 
European Union, and if the impact on European SMEs is considered insufficient.  

to  suspend  negotiations  of  cooperation  agreements  or 

to  discontinue 

Specific cases 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Natural persons — Natural persons are not eligible; 

International  organisations  —  International  organisations  (e.g.,  United  Nations 
Agencies) are not eligible; 

their  national 

Entities  without  legal  personality  —  Entities  which  do  not  have  legal  personality 
under 
that  their 
representatives have the capacity to undertake legal obligations on their behalf and 
offer  guarantees  for  the  protection  of  the  EU  financial  interests  equivalent  to  that 
offered by legal persons; 

law  may  exceptionally  participate,  provided 

Legal entities created under EU law25 — legal entities created under EU law cannot 
be part of the consortium; 

EU  restrictive  measures  —  Special  rules  apply  for  certain  entities  (e.g.  entities 
subject to EU restrictive measures under Article 29 of the Treaty on the European 
Union (TEU) and Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU)26, 
and entities covered by Commission Guidelines No 2013/C 205/0527). Such entities 
are  not  eligible  to  participate  in  any  capacity,  including  as  affiliated  entities  to 
organisations expressing their interest, associated local partners or similar. 

5.2. 

Type of organisations sought 

In  accordance  with  the  provisions  below,  INP  consortia  should  be  composed  of  the 
appropriate  mix  of  organisations  to  ensure  delivery  of  the  full  range  of  Network  services  in 
their selected region or country.  

The following type of organisations may apply28:  

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Business  support  organisations  such  as  sector  and  industry  associations,  export 
agencies,  chambers  of  commerce, 
transfer  centres,  business 
incubators, industrial clusters; 

technology 

National or regional Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs); 

Business organisations and/or businesses representative organisations; 

National & regional development agencies; 

National  or  regional  innovation  agencies  and  research  organisations  such  as 
universities and alike. 

These  business  and  innovation  support  organisations  must  have  access  to  a  large  pool  of 
business  clients  and  must  be  deeply  rooted  in  the  regional/national  innovation  eco-system 
and have a strong interest in promoting business interests abroad. They should have a strong 
mandate by either regional or national authorities to support local businesses to innovate and 
internationalise. Europe and in particular the Single Market should be one of the main target 

25 EU-funded networks and/or centres set up outside the EU fostering the internationalisation and innovation capacity of EU-based companies are eligible to expressions of interest for this 
open invitation. 
26 Please note that the EU Official Journal contains the official list and, in case of conflict, its content prevails over that of the EU Sanctions Map. 
27  Commission  guidelines  No  2013/C  205/05  on  the  eligibility  of  Israeli  entities  and  their  activities  in  the  territories  occupied  by  Israel  since  June  1967  for  grants,  prizes  and  financial 
instruments funded by the EU from 2014 onwards (OJEU C 205 of 19.07.2013, pp. 9-11).  
28 This list is deemed non-exhaustive and purely indicative. 

20 

 
 
 
markets of their clients, typically SMEs and/or scale-ups. 

5.3. 

Geographical coverage 

In many countries, a single consortium may be able to cover the entire market and reach out 
to  most  local  SMEs.  This  may  be  more  difficult  in  larger  countries.  Therefore,  it  will  be 
possible to set up several consortia in the same country. In such cases, the regional coverage 
of the different consortia could overlap. Expressions of interest should consider the existence 
of  further  consortia  in  their  country  and  describe  how  to  cooperate  with  them.  The  Agency 
reserves the right to sign Cooperation Agreements with  more than one consortium within 
the same country or region.  

The  proposed  consortium’s  name  should  have  a  geographical  reference.  For  consortia 
covering  the  entire  country  (e.g.  Enterprise  Europe  Network  Singapore,  short  version:  EEN 
Singapore).  For  larger  markets,  which  are  unlikely  to  be  covered  by  a  single  consortium, 
further  geographical  references  should  be  added  (e.g.,  Enterprise  Europe  Network  West 
Canada, short version: EEN West Canada). 

5.4. 

Cooperation with European Network Partners 

INPs and European Network Partners based in EU Member States or countries associated to 
the  Single  Market  Programme  usually  engage  if  both  sides  have  Network  clients  keen  on 
finding  business  partners  in  their  respective  markets.  Importantly,  all  Network  partners 
cooperate without charging each other fees.  

In  addition  to  the  EU  funds  received  under  the  SMP,  European  Network  Partners  finance 
Network services mostly with their own resources. On their side, INPs must have the financial 
capacity  to  offer  the  Network  services  described  above  without  charging  European 
Network  Partners  and  their  Network  clients  any  fees.  In  return,  European  Network 
Partners will not charge Network clients of INPs, either. 

For  the  expression  of  interest,  INPs  must  describe  how  they  will  fund  the  different  Network 
services.  If  INPs  receive  no  financial  support  from  regional/national  government  authorities, 
they need to explain their business model for the service delivery. For example, INPs could 
come up with a business model charging fees only to their own local Network clients, e.g. for 
technology scouting services or success fees for the signature of business deals.  

INPs  must  never  charge  European  Network  Partners  or  European  companies  for 
Network services as described in this open invitation. Only in exceptional cases, it may be 
possible for INPs to levy moderate registration fees from European companies for exclusive 
matchmaking  events  taking  place  at  international  fairs.  The  Agency  reserves  the  right  to 
discontinue  the  Cooperation  Agreement  with  INPs  charging  fees  to  European  Network 
Partners and European companies, which is against the basic principles of the Network. 

5.5. 

Organisational competences  

Organisations  expressing  their  interest  to  join  the  Network  must  have  the  know-how, 
qualifications,  and  financial  resources  to  offer  Network  services  throughout  the  entire 
contractual period.  

Organisations  must  be  committed  and  have  all  the  necessary  skills  and  expertise  to 
implement  the  activities  and  services  described  above.  The  professional  capacity  to 
successfully  support  businesses  and  a  long-standing  experience  in  those  areas  are  key 
qualifications for Network partners. To demonstrate their capacity, organisations are required 
to:  

▪ 

▪ 

Show  that  they  have  the  capacity  to  reach  out  to  the  Network’s  target  group  and 
address  the  local  business  community.  Network  partners  should  avail  of  a  wide, 
suitable client base; 

Demonstrate how they provide partnering, advisory and capacity building services 
through  a  clearly  defined  and  monitored  impact-driven  delivery  process.  This 
must include a description of the following capacities:  

-  Experience  in  assisting  companies  in  international  commercial  and/or 
technology  and  research-oriented  partnerships  from  identification  of  specific 
needs to the signature of long-term business and technology cooperation; 

-  Experience  in  assisting  businesses  undergoing  periods  of  high  growth  and 

international expansion based on innovative products and services; 

-  Experience  in  providing  services  on  research  and  innovation  cooperation, 

including activities linked to EU research programmes;  

-  Ability  to  work  with  leading  European  business  support  organisations  in  an 

international innovation and technology-oriented Network. 

5.6. 

Staff competences  

Each organisation part of a INP consortium needs to nominate a minimum of three Network 
advisors.  We  recommend  that  for  countries  with  smaller  markets,  their  combined  work 
should  match  at  least  that  of  a  full  time  equivalent.  For  large  countries,  the  commitment  in 
working  days  should  be  proportionate  to  their  market  dimension  and  go  beyond  that  of  a 
single full time equivalent.  

All appointed Network advisors must publish their professional profile in the Network directory 
on  the  Network  IT  platform.  This  profile  should  include  information  about  the  professional 
expertise,  background  and  contact  information.  Sharing  this  information  is  considered 
necessary  to  ensure  that  Network  advisors  can  find  competent  contact  points  in  different 
countries. All INPs must ensure compliance with the applicable data protection rules. 

Network advisors delivering services to businesses should have:  

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Completed higher education or equivalent by experience; 

A  very  good  command  of  written  and  spoken  English  in  addition  to  the  local 
language; 

Several years of experience in providing support to companies on a broad range of 
innovation or internationalisation issues; 

A good understanding of the local business and innovation support eco-system; 

Excellent  analytical  and communications skills  to  assess the  needs  of  businesses 
and provide appropriate support services based on this analysis; 

In  addition,  Network  advisors  must  have  at  least  basic  knowledge  to  identify 
digitalisation and sustainability challenges for businesses. 

The expression of interest must include short summaries of the CVs of the operational staff 
nominated  to  become  Network  advisors.  Moreover,  staff  continuity  is  considered  very 
important  in  the  Network.  Where  staff  changes  are  unavoidable,  the  integration  of  new 
equivalent  qualified  staff  should  be  facilitated  as  much  as  possible.  In  case  of  departures, 
organisations have to transfer the acquired knowledge to new staff and ensure that they take 
up  suitable  training  opportunities  provided  by  the  Agency,  the  Network  and/or  the  assigned 

21 

 
mentor.  

6.  TIMETABLE  

Contractual period 

1 July 2025 - 31 December 2028 

Publication of open 
invitation 

1 October 2024 

Submission of expressions 
of interest  

This open invitation does not set any specific cut-off dates for 
expressions  of  interest.  However,  expressions  of  interest 
should be submitted no later than 12 months before the end of 
the contractual period, i.e., 31 December 2027. 

Assessment of 
expressions of interest  

Expressions  of  interests  are  normally  assessed  within  1-2 
months after submission of the official form via EUSurvey29.  

Information about results 

Usually, 1-2 months after submission of expression of interest. 

Signature of Cooperation 
Agreement 

2-3  months  after  submission  if  the  expression  of  interest  is 
accepted. 

Info-session 

The European Commission and the Agency will hold an online 
in 
info-session  about 
November/December 2024). The exact date will be announced 
on  the  Network’s  website.  The  recording  will  be  made 
available via our public website as well.  

this  open 

(probably 

invitation 

7.  SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS 

Expressions  of  interest  must  be  submitted  electronically  via  the  EUSurvey  portal30. 
Expressing interest on paper or via email is not possible. No expression of interest received 
via any other channel than the relevant EUSurvey portal will be considered.  

Expressions of interest may be submitted in any official EU language. However, for reasons 
of  efficiency,  organisations  are  invited  to  submit  their  expression  of  interest  in  English. 
Moreover,  expressions  of  interest  must  contain  all  required  information  and  mandatory 
supporting documents, i.e.: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Administrative information about all organisations part of the consortium;  

Description of the implementation of the different activities and services; 

Short summaries of the CVs of the proposed Network advisors31; 

Letter  of  support from  the EU  Delegation32  present  in  the country  (to  be  uploaded 
as  PDF  file).  There  is  no  specific  template  for  the  letter  of  support.  The  EU 
Delegation should be asked to endorse their support in written. 

8.  ASSESSMENT AND ADMISSION PROCEDURE  

In close cooperation with the European Commission, the Agency will assess each expression 
of interest. This assessment shall be carried out by a selected panel of staff of the European 
Commission and the Agency, and comprise: 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

▪ 

Due  diligence  checks  of  the  organisations  that  form  the  consortium  based  on  the 
information submitted; 

Check if all submission requirements as outlined in this open invitation are met;  

Verification  of  operational  and  financial  capacity  of  the  organisations  part  of  the 
consortium. And,  in  particular, the  proposed  business  model  and/or  other  sources 
of funding available for the participation in the Network; 

Check  of  technical  capacity  of  the  staff  proposed  based  on  the  CV  summaries 
provided and public LinkedIn profiles (if available);  

In-depth assessment of the description of Network activities and services and their 
compliance with the conditions outlined in this open invitation; 

Evaluation if the proposed activities and services will have a measurable impact on 
businesses and other typical Network clients; and 

Analysis  if  the  expression  of  interest  covers  the  priority  markets  and  all  other 
conditions outlined in this open invitation. 

Organisations  may  be  invited  to  online  interviews  to  clarify  certain  elements  of  their 
expressions of interest and/or to meet the staff proposed to work as Network advisors. 

Expressions of interest, which do not or only partially meet the requirements outlined in this 
open  invitation  shall  not  be  admitted.  Only  expressions  of  interest  which  comply  with  the 
requirements outlined above and which constitute an added value to the overall performance 
of the Network, will be admitted as International Network Partners.  

The  Agency  reserves  the  right  to  propose  other  forms  of  non-contractual  collaboration  to 
consortia  not  admitted  to  the  Network.  This  includes  for  example  ad  hoc  cooperation  for 
selected  matchmaking  events,  fairs  or  trade  missions.  The  European  Commission  and 
Agency shall not be held liable for any costs incurred for the preparation and submission of 
expressions of interest. 

The result of the assessment will usually be communicated by  email within 1-2 months after 
the  submission  of  the  expression  of  interest.  Organisations  may  ask  for  a  written  summary 
indicating the reasons in case of a negative outcome or the suspension of their expression of 
interest.  At  a  later  point  in  time,  and  potentially  following  a  period  of  non-contractual 
collaboration  as  outlined  above,  expressions  of  interest  that  were  negatively  assessed  may 
be  re-submitted,  provided  they  have  been  substantially  improved  in  accordance  with  the 
feedback provided by the Agency. 

8.1. 

Exclusion criteria 

Organisations in one of the following exclusion situations cannot participate: 

▪ 

bankruptcy,  winding  up,  affairs  administered  by  the  courts,  arrangement  with 
creditors, suspended business activities or other similar procedures; 

29 https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/Open-Invitation-SMP-EEN-INP  
30 https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/Open-Invitation-SMP-EEN-INP  
31 The reply to this open invitation involves the recording and processing of personal data (such as name, addresses and CVs). S uch data will be processed pursuant to Regulation (EU) 
2018/1725  of the European Parliament and of the Council of 23 October 2018 on the protection of natural persons with regard  to the processing of personal data by the Union 
institutions, bodies, offices and agencies and on the free movement of such data (OJ L 295, 21.11.2018, p.39-98). Unless indicated otherwise, the questions and any personal 
data requested that are required to assess the expression of  interest in accordance with the criteria set out in this open invitation for  expressions of interest will be  processed 
solely for that purpose by the Agency.  For more information see the Data protection notice on:  general EISMEA DPN. 

32 https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/eu-world-0_en     

22 

 
 
 
 
▪ 

▪ 

guilty  of  grave  professional  misconduct33  (including  if  done  by  persons  having 
powers of representation, decision-making or control, beneficial owners or persons 
who are essential for the implementation of the project);  

guilty  of  fraud,  corruption,  links  to  a  criminal  organisation,  money  laundering, 
terrorism-related  crimes  (including  terrorism  financing),  child  labour  or  human 
trafficking (including if done by persons having powers of representation, decision-
making  or  control,  beneficial  owners  or  persons  who  are  essential  for  the 
implementation of the project); or 

▪ 

any other situation provided for in Article 136 of the EU Financial Regulation34. 

8.2. 

Signature of the Cooperation Agreement 

Organisations whose expressions of interest was assessed positively will be invited to sign a 
Cooperation  Agreement  with  the  Agency  (see  ‘model  cooperation  agreement’  below).  This 
agreement  will  set  the  conditions  for  their  participation  in  the  Network  as  International 
Network Partner.   

Importantly,  all  organisations  part  of  the  consortium  are  required  to  thoroughly  review  the 
conditions  stipulated  in  the  model  Cooperation  Agreement.  Each  organisation  must  verify 
compliance  can  be  ensured  through  their  respective  legal  departments  before  expressing 
interest  to  join  the  Network.  The  Cooperation  Agreement  cannot  be  adapted  to  specific 
requests from organisations upon successful assessment of their expression of interest. 

A  data  transfer  agreement  to  be  annexed  to  the  Cooperation  Agreement  may  be  required 
depending on the country of establishment and operation of the international partner pursuant 
to  Commission  Implementing  Decision  (EU)  2021/914  of  4 June  2021  and  Regulation  (EU) 
2018/172535. 

▪ 

Have a military focus. 

Organisations based in countries or territories currently in the state of war that would render 
an active participation in Network activities impossible cannot submit expressions of interest.  

9. DATA PROTECTION  

9.1  

Processing of personal data by the Agency 

Any  personal  data  related to  the expression  of  interest,  and  if  applicable  to  the subsequent 
monitoring  and  management  of  the  agreement,  will  be  processed  in  accordance  with 
Regulation  (EU)  2018/172537  under  the  responsibility  of  the  EISMEA  Head  of  Unit  I-02 
SMP/COSME acting as the data controller and for the purposes set out in the data protection 
notice38 without prejudice to the possibility of transferring the data to the bodies responsible 
for inspection and audit in accordance with EU legislation. 

The partners must inform their staff about this processing and give their approval to be signed 
up to the Network's communication and IT tools and to receive email alerts on contractual and 
operational issues related to the implementation of the Network project. 

9.2 

Processing of personal data by the partners 

The  partners  must  process  personal  data  related  to  the  expression  of  interest,  and  if 
applicable to the subsequent  implementation  of  the  agreement,  under  their  responsibility  as 
data  controller  in  compliance  with  the  applicable  EU,  international  and  national  law  on  data 
protection  (in  particular,  Regulation  (EU)  2018/1725  and  Regulation  (EU)  2016/67939).  
Further conditions are outlined in the Cooperation Agreement. 

10. 

  Additional information and point of contact  

Once  the  Agency  has  received  back  the  signed  Cooperation  Agreement,  it  will  be 
countersigned  by  the  responsible  authorising  officer.  A  copy  of  the  agreement  will  then  be 
sent to the INP project coordinator.  

Organisations  may  contact  the  Agency  for  questions  related  to  the  submission  and 
preparation of the expression of interest. Any questions should be sent to the following email 
address:  

8.3. 

Starting date and duration  

EISMEA-EEN-INTER@ec.europa.eu  

The starting date and duration will be indicated in the Cooperation Agreement. The maximum 
duration of the agreement will be 42 months, from 1 July 2025 until 31 December 2028. All 
Cooperation Agreements will end on 31 December 2028, regardless of their date of entry into 
force. 

Questions  may  be  anonymised  and  published  as  frequently  asked  questions  on  EISMEA’s 
website.  The  Agency  plans  to  host  an  online  info-session.  The  exact  date  and  any  further 
information  will  be  published  on  the  Agency’s  website  as  soon  as  available.  Once  the  info-
session has taken place, the Agency will make the recording available on their public website. 

8.4. 

 Ethics & security 

Organisations must comply with: 

▪ 

▪ 

Ethical principles36; and  

Applicable EU, international and national law.  

and may not: 

33  Professional  misconduct  includes  violation  of  ethical  standards  of  the  profession,  wrongful  conduct  with  impact  on  professional  credibility,  false  declarations/misrepresentation  of 
information,  participation  in  a  cartel  or  other  agreement  distorting  competition,  violation  of  IPR,  attempting  to  influence  decision-making  processes  or  obtain  confidential 
information from public authorities to gain advantage. 

34   Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2018/1046 of  the  European Parliament  and  of the Council of  18 July 2018 on the  financial rules applicable to the  general  budget of  the Union,  amending 
Regulations (EU) No 1296/2013, (EU) No 1301/2013, (EU) No 1303/2013, (EU) No 1304/2013, (EU) No 1309/2013, (EU) No 1316/2013, (EU) No 223/2014, (EU) No 283/2014, 
and Decision No 541/2014/EU and repealing Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 966/2012. 

35 Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2021/914 of 4 June 2021 on standard contractual clauses for the transfer of personal data to third countries pursuant to Regulation (EU) 
2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 199, 7.6.2021, p. 31–61 ) mainly for non-EU countries not covered by a Commission Adequacy Decision. 
36 International Network Partners must ensure that the  activities  and  services proposed  do  not: aim  at  human cloning for reproductive purposes;  intend to  modify the  genetic heritage of 
human beings which could make such changes heritable  (with  the  exception  of  research  relating  to  cancer  treatment  of  the  gonads,  which may be financed), or intend to 
create human embryos solely for the purpose of research or for the purpose of stem cell procurement, including by means of somatic cell nuclear transfer. 

APPENDIX – DESCRIPTION OF CLIENT 
CENTRIC APPROACH AND CLIENT JOURNEY 
INTERACTIONS 

The Network’s client-centric approach 

The  Network  is  built  on  a  client-centric  approach.  This  means  designing  services  from  the 
client’s perspective, with a focal point identifying the needs and ensuring close follow-up with 
the  client.  This  approach  aims  at  creating  strong  relationships  with  Network  clients  and 
generating concrete impact for businesses.  

The different levels of interaction with Network clients are categorised as follows: 

37 OJ L 295, 21.11.2018, p. 39–98. 
38 https://eismea.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-04/EISMEA-DPN-calls.pdf  

39OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1). 

23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
▪ 

First  level  services  (usually  basic  in  nature)  give  direct  and  straightforward 
solutions  to  a  company’s  problem,  so  that  the  company  does  not  need  further 
assistance on the specific query. 

Often short-term in nature, first level services tend to be standardised; they are not 
specifically customised and provide off-the-shelf solutions to companies. They are 
usually, but not necessarily, delivered as one-to-many services.  
Examples  include  simple  direct  answers  to  clients  by  providing  up-to-date 
information  to  queries,  e.g.,  via  referral  to  existing  websites,  other  stakeholders, 
frequently asked questions  (FAQs), information events, webinars, etc. without any 
requirement for further analysis of the client’s need. 

▪ 

Second  level  services  (usually  advanced  in  nature)  support  clients  facing  more 
complex  issues  or  barriers  and  help  them  prepare  or  implement  medium-  and 
longer-term business plans. Second level services are provided when a company’s 
problem  or  request cannot  be  attained  with  off-the-shelf  or standardised  answers. 
They are, by definition, tailored to the specific needs of the company and should be 
linked  appropriately  with  relevant  first  level  services  as  well  as  with  services 
provided by other Network partners via the hub and spoke model.  

Second level services require an elaborate analysis to address the client’s needs in 
the short-  and medium-  to  longer  term,  as  part  of  a client  journey.  They  are  often 
more  technical  and  specialised  and  require  higher  level  of  competences  from 
Network  advisors.  Consultation  among  Network  advisors,  e.g., via Sector  Groups, 
can in many cases be necessary.  

Second  level  Network  services  focus  on  partnering  and  advisory  support.  They  lead  to 
achievements considered as important milestones in the Network client journey: 

▪ 

▪ 

Partnering  services:  all  types  of  international  brokerage  and  matchmaking 
services and events aiming to generate sustainable growth for companies through 
international  business  and  technology  cooperation.  In  the  Network  client  journey, 
they lead to Partnering Achievements (PAs). 

Advisory  services:  all  types  of  services  aiming  at  increasing  companies’ 
sustainable  growth,  competitiveness  or  resilience  in  an  international  scope, 
including  capacity  building  services  aiming  at 
increasing  Network  clients’ 
knowledge, capacity for innovation and adaptability to new economic conditions. In 
the Network client journey, they lead to Advisory Achievements (AAs). 

Not all partners in a consortium need to possess the entire range of competencies required to 
meet a particular Network client’s needs. Where expertise or special knowledge is missing to 
address a specific Network client need, other Network partners can be called on to contribute.  

Network  services  are  expected  to  generate  measurable  impact  for  businesses,  e.g. 
expressed  in  increased  market  share,  turnover,  optimised  costs  or  realised  savings  in 
international  activities,  improved  quality  of  products,  services  or  processes  or  product  or 
service innovation. 

Hub and spoke model 

The Network’s greatest strength lies in the collective knowledge and expertise of all Network 
partners.  To  put  this  to  the  best  possible  use  for  Network  clients,  all  Network  consortia  are 
expected to play an active part in the Network’s hub-and-spoke model.  

In the hub-and-spoke model, different entities (Network partners and external stakeholders), 

each remaining individually managed and accountable under their contracts, pool their assets 
together  contributing  to  one  central  goal:  providing  high-end  customised  services  to  a 
Network  client.  All  Network  partners  should  have  this  same  objective  and  work  with  each 
other and external stakeholders in the same way. 
This working method implies that while there is one ‘lead’ Network partner for each client in 
the  client  journey  (the  “hub”),  individual  services  which  do  not  fall  into  the  hub’s  key 
competence will always be provided by the Network partner or external stakeholders who is 
best suited and best placed to deliver high quality support to the client (the “spoke”).   

Within  their  role  of  Network  hubs,  Network  partners  provide  tailor-made  advisory  and 
partnering services and pull together the complementary services of the spokes, i.e. partners 
of  the  same  consortium,  partners  from  other  consortia  in  the  same  country,  partners  from 
other countries, or external stakeholders. 
This means that Network partners will be acting as spokes for companies who are in a client 
journey  of  a  different  Network  partner,  and  companies  who  are  not  based  in  their  region  or 
country.    In  line  with  the  common  principles  of  the  Network  this  support  will  remain  free  of 
charge when offered by Network partners. 

All  Network  partners  should  plan  resources  for  the  provision  of  services  to  SMEs  as  a 
“spoke”,  which may mean that the  client company is  located  in  a different  region  or country 
than the Network partner. Such support activities are recognised as contribution to the quality 
of the Network’s services and are reflected in the key performance indicators. 

Network client journey 

The relationships and interactions between Network partners and their clients are reflected in 
the client journey. The Network client journey is the company's growth path realised with the 
help  of  the  Network  services.  The  Network  client  journey  is  the  complete  experience 
companies  go  through  when  interacting  with  the  Network,  i.e.,  a  sum  of  all  services, 
achievements and touchpoints between the Network and a company. 

These services shall be mostly tailor-made and adapted to the actual Network client’s needs. 
Action  plans  should  determine  and  document  the  concrete  actors  involved,  including 
identification  of the  hub  and  the  spokes, timing  and steps  addressing  the  needs,  as  well  as 
the desired targets.  

Network  advisors  must  ensure  recording  and  tracking  of  the  activities  with  their  Network 
clients in  the Network IT platform to ensure continuous analysis and improvement of growth 
or innovation strategies. The different stages of the Network client journey are as follows: 

1. Client Needs 
assessment 

The initial step in the Network client journey is to assess the main 
characteristics and the needs of the company as well as the ability 
and  capacity  of  the  Network  to  respond  to  these  needs.  If  the 
company  does  not  meet  the  requirements  to  be  served  by  the 
Network (e.g. due to lacking capacity of the company to engage in 
international  activity),  the  Network  partner  must  signpost  the 
company  to  a  stakeholder  outside  the  Network  who  could  better 
address the client’s needs. 

In  case  the  company  qualifies  for  support,  the  Network  partner 
must identify the main contact point to interact with the client (the 
hub).  This  will  be  the  case  manager  for  this  Network  client.  All 
interactions with the Network client will be followed in the Network 

24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
2. Action Plan 

3. Achievements 

IT platform. The needs assessment must be regularly reviewed to 
reflect  the  Network  client’s  changing  capacity,  dynamics  or 
ambitions and any changes in external factors.  

The  action  plan  describes,  starting  from  the  needs  assessment, 
the  concrete  actions  of  the  hub  and  all  the  foreseen  touchpoints 
(interactions)  between  the  Network  client  and  the  spokes  to 
respond  to  the  identified  needs.  It  contains  information  on  the 
actors and the objectives and sets deadlines for completion of the 
services. The Network client’s engagement in the process needs 
to be ensured. 

The action plan can be reviewed and should be regularly updated. 
If a new need or challenge is identified, the Network advisor must 
adapt the action plan. During the Network client journey, the hub 
or  the  spokes  can  change  if  deemed  appropriate  to  provide  the 
best  support  to  the  Network  client.  Since  the  Network  client 
journey  is  about  maximising  quality  of  the  service  and  building 
relationships with the client, smooth communication with Network 
clients at all stages is key. 

The successful delivery of Network services is expressed through 
generating Achievements. Achievements bring high impact to the 
Network client’s business and are considered as milestones in the 
Network  client  journey.  The  achieved  results  will  be  measured 
against the objectives set in the action plan. 

COOPERATION AGREEMENT UNDER 
ARTICLE 9(3)(a) (SMP40) 

Open invitation to join the Enterprise Europe Network as International Network Partner  

SMP-COSME-2024-EEN-INTERNATIONAL 

(Insert project title)  
(Insert acronym for consortium) 
(Insert country) 

The  European  Innovation  Council  and  SME  Executive  Agency  (’EISMEA’  or  the  ‘Agency’), 
acting  under  powers  delegated  by  the  European  Commission  (the  ‘Commission’),  and 
represented for the purposes of signature of this Cooperation Agreement (the ‘agreement’) by 
Natalia Martínez Páramo, Head of Unit, or the duly authorised representative, 

of the one part, 

and  

(Insert full official name) (ACRONYM) 
(Insert official legal form) 
(Insert official address in full) 

4. Impact 

At the end of the Network client journey, the Network advisor shall 
carry out an impact assessment in order to determine the effect of 
the services provided to the Network client. 

hereinafter  called  the  ‘co-ordinator’,  represented  for  the  purposes  of  signature  of  the 
agreement by (Insert name, forename and function) 

APPENDIX – MODEL COOPERATION 
AGREEMENT 

and the following ‘co-partners’: 

(Insert full official name) (ACRONYM) 
(Insert official legal form)  
(Insert official address in full) 

Disclaimer:  This  appendix  sets  out  the  conditions  that  may  apply  to  the  Cooperation 
Agreement. It is provided solely for informational purposes. The legally binding agreement will 
be that which is signed by the parties. 

represented for the purposes of signature of the agreement by (Insert name, forename and 
function) 

(Insert full official name) (ACRONYM) 
(Insert official legal form)  
(Insert official address in full) 

represented for the purposes of signature of the agreement by (Insert name, forename and 
function) 

(Idem for each co-partner) 

EUROPEAN INNOVATION COUNCIL AND SMES 

EXECUTIVE AGENCY (EISMEA) 

collectively  referred  to  as  the  ‘partners’,  and  each  individually  identified  as  ‘partner’  for 
purposes of the agreement where a provision applies without distinction to the co-ordinator or 

40 The Programme for single  market, competitiveness  of enterprises, including small  and medium-sized enterprises, and European statistics  – see Regulation (EU) No  2021/690  of the 

European Parliament and the Council of 28 April 2021 (Official Journal of the European Union, OJ L 153, 3.5.2021, p. 1–47). 

25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
a co-partner41 

of the other part,  

HAVE AGREED 

Whereas  it  is  the  aim  of  the  agreement  to  encourage  the  provision  of  services  to  support 
cross-border business cooperation, technology transfer and research collaboration; 

Whereas  the  agreement  aims  at  setting  up  relationships  of  cooperation  on  the  basis  of 
mutual benefit between SMEs and startups based in Europe and other international markets; 

To an action entitled (Insert acronym for consortium) to be carried out in the framework of 
the agreement established between the parties according to the following provisions. 

Whereas the development of Network services and access to the Network IT  tools shall also 
fall within the scope of the agreement; 

To  the  Recitals,  the  Special  Conditions,  the  General  Conditions  and  the  Annex  which 
form integral parts of the agreement. 

Whereas  partners  should  provide  services  to  the  highest  quality  and  to  their  best 
endeavours; 

The  Recitals  sets  out  the  context  of  the  agreement  established  between  the  parties  in  the 
field of services in support of business and innovation. 

Whereas organisations in countries not participating in the SMP will be invited to propose the 
establishment of a Network consortium on a self-financing basis. 

The  Special  Conditions  and  the  General  Conditions  indicate  the  subject  and  duration  of 
the agreement and the operational arrangements for the agreement. 

I - SPECIAL CONDITIONS 

ARTICLE I.1 - SUBJECT 

The following document is annexed to the agreement: 

Annex - Description of implementation of activities and services 

I.1.1 

The terms of the Special  Conditions, of which the Recitals forms an integral part, shall take 
precedence  over  those  in  the  other  parts  of  the  agreement.  The  terms  of  the  General 
Conditions shall take precedence over those in the Annex. 

By signing the agreement, the parties accept its terms. 

RECITALS 

Whereas  the  Enterprise  Europe  Network  (the  ‘Network’)  is  an  important  instrument  of  the 
Commission to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups to grow and 
innovate internationally; 

The agreement sets the terms and conditions which shall apply to the action entitled 
(Insert acronym for consortium) (the “action") and which are hereby taken note of 
and  agreed 
the 
implementation of the different activities and services described in the Annex. 

the  partners.  The  action  shall  be  pursued 

through 

to  by 

I.1.2  All  activities  and  services  planned  in  the  Annex  need  to  target  the  European  Union 
(‘EU’)  Single  Market  and/or  associated  countries  participating  in  the  SMP  under 
Article  5  of  the  SMP  Regulation42.  Activities  such  as  matchmaking  events  or  trade 
missions  targeting  third  countries  equally  participating  in  the  SMP  under  Article 
9(3)(a) are not covered by this agreement. 

ARTICLE I.2 - DURATION 

I.2.1 

The  agreement  shall  enter  into  force  on  the  date  when  the  last  of  the  two  parties 
signs. 

Whereas the Network shall stimulate the innovation capacity of SMEs and startups through 
technology transfer and international research collaboration; 

I.2.2 

The duration of the action shall be 42 months from 1 July 2025 (the ‘starting date of 
the action’) ending not later than 31 December 2028 (the ‘end date of the action’). 

Whereas  the  Agency  is  responsible  for  implementing  part  of  the  Regulation  (EU)  No 
2021/690  of  the  European  Parliament  and  of  the  Council  of  28  April  2021  establishing  a 
programme  for  the  internal  market,  competitiveness  of  enterprises,  including  small  and 
medium-sized enterprises, the area of plants, animals, food and feed, and European statistics 
(Single Market Programme) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 99/2013, (EU) No 1287/2013, 
(EU) No 254/2014 and (EU) No 652/2014 (the ‘SMP Regulation’); 

Whereas  pursuant  to  Article  9(3)(a)  of  the  SMP  Regulation,  entities  established  in  a  third 
country  which  is  not  associated  with  the  SMP  (the  ‘International  Network  Partners’)  may 
participate in specific actions to support the Network. International Network Partners shall not 
be  entitled  to  receive  EU  financial  contributions.  The  Agency  shall  support  International 
Network  Partners  by  making  available  to  them  the  appropriate coordination  and  operational 
support.  

ARTICLE I.3 – ROLE OF THE PARTNERS 

I.3.1 

The partners: 

a)  Shall  have  full  responsibility for  ensuring that  their  respective contribution to the 

action is implemented in accordance with the agreement. 

b)  Shall  agree  upon  appropriate  arrangements  between  themselves  for  the  proper 
implementation  of  the  action  through  the  conclusion  of  a  separate  internal 
agreement  regarding  their  operation  and  co-ordination.  This  internal  agreement 
shall include all provisions necessary for the management of the partners and the 
implementation of the action. 

c)  Shall support the integration of new or additional partners to the consortium upon 

41 Each participating co-partner should sign the agreement on the last page. 

42 https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/smp/guidance/list-3rd-country-participation_smp_en.pdf 

26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
recommendation by the Agency or upon invitation by the partners themselves. 

d)  May  identify  further  local  business  support  organisations  and/or  stakeholders  in 
the  country  associated  to  the  contractual  partners  (the  ‘wider  consortium’)  with 
which  the  partners  cooperate  to  better  cover  all  regions  of  the  country  or  to 
improve the service delivery. 

  Organisations  part  of the  wider consortium  i)  are  not  contractual  partners  of  the 
Network; ii) do not have access to the Network IT tools; and iii) are not eligible for 
direct operational support from the Agency. 

It  is  recommended  for  partners  to  sign  a  separate  formal  agreement  with  the 
wider  consortium  specifying  the  exact  terms  of  the  cooperation  and  what 
contribution  these  organisations  shall  make  to  the  implementation  of  the  action. 
The Agency should be informed about the activities and services rendered by the 
wider consortium. 

I.3.2 

The co-ordinator shall: 

a)  Be  the  main  intermediary  for  communication  between  the  co-partners  and  the 
Agency in accordance with Article I.10. Any claims that the Agency might have in 
respect of the agreement shall be discussed with involvement of the co-ordinator, 
save where specifically stated otherwise in the agreement; 

b)  Be responsible for supplying all documents and information to the Agency which 
may  be  required  under  the  agreement.  The  co-ordinator  shall  not  delegate  any 
part of this task to the co-partners43 or to any other party. Where information from 
the co-partners is required, the co-ordinator shall be responsible for obtaining and 
verifying this information and for passing it on to the Agency; 

c) 

If required by the Annex, establish a wider consortium with further organisations 
associated to the contractual partners. The co-ordinator is expected to keep the 
wider  consortium  informed  and  ensure  their  participation  or  contribution  to 
Network activities and services; 

d)  Inform  the  co-partners  of  any  event  of  which  the  co-ordinator  is  aware  that  is 

liable to affect substantially the implementation of the action. 

I.3.3 

The co-partners44 shall: 

a)  Forward to the co-ordinator the information needed to draw up reports and other 

documents provided for in the agreement; 

b)  Ensure that all information to be provided to the Agency, in accordance with the 
agreement,  is  validated  by  the  co-ordinator,  save  where  the  agreement 
specifically stipulates otherwise; 

c) 

Inform  the  co-ordinator  immediately  of  any  event  liable  to  substantially  affect  or 
delay the implementation of the action of which they are aware. 

I.3.4 

The Agency shall: 

43 Where applicable when co-partners form part of the consortium. 
44 Where applicable when co-partners form part of the consortium. 

a)  Animate and provide partners with technical assistance to implement the activities 

and services described in the Annex; 

b)  Provide communication tools  and contribute towards their visibility;  

c)  Provide access to the Network intranet, databases and other online tools; 

d)  Offer technical support for the effective use of the Network IT tools; 

e) 

Invite  the  partners,  at  their  own  expense,  to  participate  in  trainings,  webinars, 
annual conferences as well as sector and thematic group meetings.  

ARTICLE I.4 – OBJECTIVE OF THE ACTION AND SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES 

I.4.1 

I.4.2 

The  Network  is  expected  to  play  a  crucial  role  in  helping  businesses  to  innovate 
and  to  enter  new  markets.  The  main  objective  of  the  partners  will  be  to  establish 
commercial,  technological  and  research  related  partnerships  between  European 
SMEs/startups and companies in their countries. 

In  order  to  achieve  the  above  objectives,  the  partners  will  provide  advisory  and 
partnering  services  to  facilitate  cross-border  business  cooperation,  technology 
transfer and research collaboration. The partners therefore shall: 

a)  Help  SMEs  and  startups  to  benefit  from  opportunities  and  overcome  barriers 
doing business within the EU Single Market and other international markets; 

b)  Support  businesses 

to  Free  Trade 
Agreements  (FTAs)  signed  by  the  EU  with  other  major  trade  blocks  and 
countries; 

to  exploit  preferential 

terms  related 

c)  Ensure  a  client-centric  approach  by  working  together  to  support  SMEs  and 
startups  to  innovate,  license  or  access  new  technologies  and/or  find  business 
partners in the EU Single Market and beyond; 

d)  Ensure high levels of visibility at local, regional, national and international level to 
make  the  Network  a  natural  first  port  of  call  for  SMEs  and  startups  with  high 
innovation and internationalisation potential; 

e)  Provide  support  for  learning  and  skills  development  and  capacity  building  for 

SMEs and startups. 

The  partners  may  only  provide  Network  services  to  companies  registered  within  the 
internationally  recognised  borders  of  the  country  they  cover45.  All  Network  services  and 
activities related to the given country must take place  within these internationally recognised 
borders. 

ARTICLE  I.5  –  FINANCIAL  AND  HUMAN  RESOURCES  REQUIRED  FOR  NETWORK 
ACTIVITIES 

45 See also Guidelines on the eligibility of Israeli entities and their activities in the territories occupied by Israel since June 1967 for grants, prizes and financial instruments funded by the EU 

from 2014 onwards: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=uriserv:OJ.C_.2013.205.01.0009.01.ENG 

27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pursuant to Article 9(3)(a) of the SMP Regulation, entities referred to in the first subparagraph 
therein shall not be entitled to receive financial contributions from the Agency. The partners 
themselves  must  secure  the  required  financial  and  human  resources  to  implement  the 
activities and services described in the Annex.  

With  the  signature  of  the  agreement,  the  partners  assure  to  have  the  necessary  funding  to 
implement  these  activities  and  services  from  their  organisations’  own  budget.  Partners  may 
also  seek  funding  from  regional  and/or  national  governmental  budgetary  authorities 
sponsoring Network activities.  

To  ensure  sufficient  human  resources  to  successfully  implement  Network  activities,  each 
partner in the consortium shall: 

a)  assign  an  adequate  number  of  staff  acting  as  official  contact  persons  for  the 
Network  and  the  Agency.  The  contact  details  of  staff  has  to  be  visible  in  the 
Network directory; 

b)  ensure  staff  assigned  to the  Network  have  the  required  qualifications  to  fulfil  their 

tasks to high quality standards; 

c)  Build  up  the  capacity  of  staff  by  participating  in  Network  trainings,  workshops, 
webinars, staff exchanges and mentoring schemes to better support businesses in 
the innovation process; 

improve  the  quality  of  their  services  and  to  generate  more  concrete  results  for 
SMEs and startups.   

ARTICLE I.7 – USE OF THE VISUAL IDENTITY OF THE NETWORK  

I.7.1 

I.7.2 

I.7.3 

  The  Network's  visual  identity  and  its  characteristic  logo  are  the  property  of  the 
Agency. The Agency shall allow the partners to use it free of charge for the term of 
this agreement. Partners commit themselves to follow the instructions and guidance 
notes published by the Agency. 

  The coordinator shall ensure that the partners use the logo for all Network activities. 
Promotion  and  information  products  bearing  the  Network  logo  must  only  contain 
information  which  is  useful  to SMEs  and startups,  and meet the  objectives  of this 
agreement. 

  The  partners  must  not  permit  the  use  of  the  Network's  visual  identity  and  its 
characteristic  logo  to  other  organisations  not  part  of  this  agreement  without  prior 
authorisation of the Agency. This includes also the wider consortium.  The partners 
shall  inform  the  Agency  without  delay  of  any  improper  use  of  the  logo  by  third 
parties in their countries. 

I.7.4 

  The partners may use the Network’s visual identity and logo only as of and as long 

as this agreement with the Agency is in force. 

d)  make  available  additional  staff  in  peak  periods,  e.g.  for  the  organisation  of 
matchmaking  events,  trade  missions  and/or  any  other  events  organised  by  the 
Network.  

I.7.5 

  The  partners  shall  not  use  the  official  logo  of  the  European  Union,  European 
Commission  and  other  European  institutions  in  their  promotional  materials, 
websites or social media accounts. 

ARTICLE I.6 – ANNUAL REPORTING AND CONSULTATION  

ARTICLE I.8 - GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS 

I.6.1 

The action is divided into yearly reporting periods. 

I.8.1. 

  Any communication in connection with the agreement shall be in writing, and shall 

I.6.2 

The partners shall reach the annual performance targets set in the Annex. 

I.6.3 

Data  on  the  performance  of  the  partners  is  visible  on  the  Network  IT  tools. 
However, if requested by the Agency, the partners shall submit additional reports. 
These  reports  must  be  submitted  in  a  timely  manner  and  in  accordance  with  the 
guidelines provided by the Agency.  

The  partners  will  receive  annual  feedback  as  to  whether  the  Agency  judges  the 
activities carried out to be in line with the description of the implementation of the 
different activities and services in the Annex.. Those partners not submitting reports 
do not fulfil the obligations incumbent on them under the terms of the agreement. 

I.6.4 

The  comparison  of  the  report  with  the  agreed  targets  shall  be  the  basis  for  the 
assessment of the performance and whether partners have fulfilled their contractual 
obligations. Partners, who in two consecutive years fail to reach the agreed targets, 
or  perform  considerably  below  Network  averages,  are  considered  not  fulfilling  the 
obligations incumbent on them under the terms of this agreement.  

I.6.5 

 Should the Agency identify specific quality and/or performance issues, the partners 
shall  agree  to  participate  in  the  Network’s  mentoring  scheme  and  to  collaborate 
with the Agency and European Network Partners. This collaboration is intended to 

be sent to the following addresses: 

For the Agency: 

  European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) 
  Natalia Martínez Páramo, EISMEA Head of Unit I.02 
  SB34  03/DCS 
  B-1049 Brussels 
  Belgium 

Ordinary  mail  and  emails  shall  be  considered  to  have  been  received  by  the  Agency  on  the 
date on which it is formally registered by the Agency unit responsible referred to above. 

For the co-ordinator: 

Mr/Ms (insert name) 
(Insert function) 
(Insert official denomination) 
(Insert full official address) 

I.8.2 

Any  communication  from  the  Agency  to  the  partners  and  vice  versa  should  be 
made  via  the  co-ordinator,  save  where  specifically  indicated  otherwise  in  the 

28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
agreement.  This  does  not  exclude  direct  contacts  between  the  Agency  and  co-
partners.  In  case  of  such  direct  contacts,  the  co-ordinator  should  always  be 
informed and/or kept in copy. 

ARTICLE I.9 - LAW APPLICABLE AND COMPETENT COURT 

The agreement is governed by the EU law applicable and, on a subsidiary basis, by the law of 
Belgium. 

If a dispute concerns the interpretation, application or validity of the agreement, the Parties 
must bring action before the EU General Court — or, on appeal, the EU Court of Justice — 
under Article 272 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU).  

Where  the  partner  is  legally  established  in  a  country  other  than  a  Member  State  of  the  EU 
(the  ‘non  EU  partner’),  the    parties  may  bring  any  dispute  concerning  the  interpretation, 
application or validity of the agreement, if such dispute cannot be settled amicably, before the 
Belgian  Courts  —  unless  an  association  agreement  to  the  EU  programme  provides  for  the 
enforceability of EU court judgements under Article 272 TFEU. 

If one party has brought such proceedings before the Belgian Courts, the other party may not 
bring  a  claim  arising  from  the  interpretation,  application  or  validity  of  the  agreement  before 
any other court than the Belgian Court already seized. 

Alternatively, a dispute concerning the interpretation, application or validity of the Agreement, 
may,— in the absence of an amicable settlement — in agreement by both parties be settled 
in accordance with the rules for arbitration46 published on the Funding and Tenders Portal of 
the European Commission.  

In  any  case,  if  a  dispute  concerns  administrative  sanctions,  offsetting  or  an  enforceable 
decision  under  Article  299  TFEU,  the  parties  must  bring  action  before  the  General  Court  — 
or, on appeal, the Court of Justice — under Article 263 TFEU.  

ARTICLE I.10 – DATA PROTECTION 

I.10.1 

Processing of personal data by the Agency 

Any  personal  data  related  to  the  monitoring  and  management  of  the  agreement  will  be 
processed  in  accordance  with  Regulation  (EU)  2018/172547  under  the  responsibility  of  the 
EISMEA  Head  of  Unit I-02  SMP/COSME  acting  as the  data  controller  and  for the  purposes 
set  out  in  the  data  protection  notice48  without  prejudice  to  the  possibility  of  transferring  the 
data to the bodies responsible for inspection and audit in accordance with EU legislation. 

The partners inform their staff about this processing and give their approval to be signed up to 
the  Network's  communication  and  IT  tools  and  to  receive  email  alerts  on  contractual  and 
operational issues related to the implementation of the Network project. 

I.10.2 

Processing of personal data by the partners 

The  partners  must  process  personal  data  related  to  the  implementation  of  this  agreement 
under their responsibility as data controller in compliance with the applicable EU, international 
and national law on data protection (in particular, Regulation (EU) 2018/1725 and Regulation 

(EU) 2016/67949). To this end, they must ensure that personal data is: 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

processed  lawfully,  fairly  and  in  a  transparent  manner  in  relation  to  the  data 
subjects; 

collected for specified, explicit and legitimate purposes and not further processed in 
a manner that is incompatible with those purpose; 

adequate, relevant and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for 
which they are processed; 

accurate and, where necessary, kept up to date; 

kept  in  a  form  which  permits  identification  of  data  subjects  for  no  longer  than  is 
necessary for the purposes for which the data is processed; and 

processed in a manner that ensures appropriate security of the data; 

limit international transfers and further transfers to countries not ensuring adequate 
safeguard of protection. 

In case of a personal data breach which may affect in particular the personal data 
of  the  Network's  communication  and  IT  tools,  partners  shall  promptly  take  the 
appropriate  technical  and  organisational measures to  stop  the  breach  and  without 
undue delay inform the Agency at the latest within 48 consecutive hours.  

In  case  of  a  data  subject  request  in  particular  related  to  personal  data  of  the 
Network's  communication  and  IT  tools,  partners  shall  reply  to  the  data  subject 
without undue delay and without undue delay inform the Agency and keep record of 
such requests, in line with Regulation (EU) 2018/1725. 

- 

Partners should appoint a point of contact for data protection matters. 

The  partners may  grant their  Network  staff  access  only  to  data that  is strictly  necessary  for 
implementation,  management  and  monitoring  of  this  agreement.  The  partners  must  ensure 
that  the  staff  is  under  a  confidentiality  obligation  and  informed  about  the  data  protection 
requirements. 

The  partners  must  inform  the  person  whose  personal  data  are  collected  and  processed  for 
the implementation of this agreement either by the partners themselves or by the Agency. For 
this purpose, they must provide them a data protection notice (on the basis of the Agency’s 
one)50 with all relevant information, before collecting and transmitting their data to the Agency. 
This  applies  the  same  way  for  personal  data  of  staff,  clients,  partners,  contractors  or  other 
persons. 

An  additional  data  transfer  agreement  may  be  required  depending  on  the  country  of 
establishment  and  operation  of 
to  Commission 
Implementing Decision (EU) 2021/914 of 4 June 2021 and Regulation (EU) 2018/1725  51. 

international  partner  pursuant 

the 

ARTICLE I.11 – EQUALITY OF CONDITIONS 

European and International Network Partners engage if both sides have Network clients keen 
on finding business partners in their respective markets. All Network partners must cooperate 
and offer free of charge Network services to each other and/or their Network clients. 

However, International Network Partners may decide to charge fees for services to their own 

46 https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/common/guidance/rules-for-arbitration_en.pdf   
47 OJ L 295, 21.11.2018, p. 39–98. 
48 https://eismea.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-04/EISMEA-DPN-calls.pdf  

49OJ L 119, 4.5.2016, p. 1). 
50 https://eismea.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-04/EISMEA-DPN-calls.pdf  
51 Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2021/914 of 4 June 2021 on standard contractual clauses for the transfer of personal data to third countries pursuant to Regulation (EU) 
2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council (OJ L 199, 7.6.2021, p. 31–61 ). 

29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
local  Network  clients.  Only  in  duly  justified  cases  may  International  Network  Partners  levy 
moderate  registration  fees  on  clients  of  European  Network  Partners  ,e.g.  for  exclusive 
matchmaking  events  taking  place  at  major  international  fairs  in  their  countries.  International 
Network  Partners  charging  fees  to  Network  clients  of  European  Network  Partners  will  be 
considered not to fulfil the obligations incumbent on them under the terms of this agreement. 

The Network remains a ‘Eurocentric’ SME and startup support platform. International Network 
Partners  must  target  their  activities  and  services  towards  the  EU  Single  Market  and/or 
countries  associated  to  the SMP under  Article  5  SMP  Regulation. This  agreement  shall  not 
cover  use  of  the  Network  IT  tools  for  supporting  Network  clients  of  International  Network 
Partners to enter any other international market. 

II -GENERAL CONDITIONS 

ARTICLE II.1 – UNDERTAKINGS BY THE PARTNERS 

By signing the agreement, the partners undertake to: 

-  Respect the common general objectives, as referred to in the Recitals; 

-  Fulfil the obligations stipulated in the agreement and under the Annex; 

-  Do everything in their power to realise the common general objectives outlined in 

the agreement; 

Any situation constituting or likely to lead to a conflict of interest during the implementation of 
the agreement must be brought to the attention of the Agency, in writing, without delay. The 
partners shall undertake to take whatever steps are necessary to rectify this situation without 
delay. The Agency may request information on which measures have been taken with a view 
to  ensuring  that  the  measures  taken  are  appropriate.  The  Agency  reserves  the  right  to 
instruct the partner to take additional measures, and a timeframe for doing so, if it deems it 
necessary. 

ARTICLE II.4 – OWNERSHIP/USE OF THE RESULTS 

II.4.1 

II.4.2 

Unless  stipulated  otherwise,  ownership  of  the  results  of  the  action,  including 
industrial  and  intellectual  property  rights,  and  of  the  reports  and  other  documents 
relating to it shall be vested in the partners. 

Without prejudice to the paragraph above, the partners grant the Agency the right 
to  make  free  use  of  the  results  of  the  action  as  it  deems  fit,  provided  it  does  not 
thereby  breach  its  confidentiality  obligations  or  existing  industrial  and  intellectual 
property rights. 

ARTICLE II.5 – CONFIDENTIALITY 

II.5.1 

The  Agency  and  the  partners  undertake  to  preserve  the  confidentiality  of  any 
document,  information  or  any  other  material,  in  any format,  disclosed  in  writing  or 
orally,  directly  related  to  the  subject  of  the  agreement  that  is  duly  classed  as 
confidential. 

-  Regularly communicate to the Agency information in its possession pertaining to 

matters of common interest falling within the scope of the agreement. 

II.5.2 

 The Agency and the partners must: 

ARTICLE II.2 – LIABILITY 

II.2.1 

II.2.2 

The  partners  shall  have  sole  responsibility  for  complying  with  any  legal  obligation 
incumbent on them. 

The Commission or the Agency shall not, in any circumstances or on any grounds, 
be held liable in the event of a claim under this agreement relating to any damage 
caused during the execution of the action. Consequently, the Commission and the 
reimbursement 
request 
Agency  will  not  entertain  any 
accompanying any such claim. 

indemnity  or 

for 

II.2.3 

Except  in  cases  of  force  majeure,  the  partners  shall  make  good  any  damage 
sustained  by  the  Agency  as  a  result  of  the  execution  or  faulty  execution  of  the 
action. 

II.2.4 

The partners shall assume sole liability towards third parties, including for damage 
of any kind sustained by them while the action is being carried out. 

ARTICLE II.3 – CONFLICTS OF INTEREST 

The  partners  take  all  necessary  measures  to  prevent  any  risk  of  conflict  of  interest  which 
could  affect  the  impartial  and  objective  performance  of  the  agreement.  Such  conflict  of 
interests  could  arise  in  particular  as  a  result  of  economic  interests,  political  or  national 
affinities, family or emotional ties or emotional reasons, or any other common interests. 

a)  not  use  confidential  information  or  documents  for  any  purpose  other  than  to 
perform its obligations under the agreement without the prior written agreement of 
the other party; 

b)  ensure the protection of such confidential information or documents with the same 
level  of  protection  as  its  own  confidential  information  and  in  any  case  with  due 
diligence;  
not  disclose,  directly  or  indirectly,  confidential  information  or  documents  to  third 
parties without the prior written agreement of the other party. 

c) 

II.5.3 

The confidentiality obligations set out in this Article are binding on the Agency and 
the  partners  during  the  performance  of  the  agreement  and  for  as  long  as  the 
information or documents remain confidential unless: 

a) 

b) 

c) 

the  disclosing  party  agrees  to  release  the  receiving  party  from  the  confidentiality 
obligation earlier; 
the confidential information or documents become public through other means than 
a breach of the confidentiality obligation; 
the  applicable  law  requires  the  disclosure  of  the  confidential  information  or 
documents. 

II.5.4  

The partners must obtain from any natural person with the power to represent it or 
take  decisions  on  its  behalf,  as  well  as  from  third  parties  involved  in  the 
performance of the agreement, a commitment that they will comply with this Article. 
At  the  request  of  the  Agency,  the  partners  must  provide  a  document  providing 
evidence of this commitment. 

30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
II.5.5 

The  Agency  may  disclose  sensitive  information  to  its  staff  and  to  other  EU 
institutions  and  bodies.  It  may  moreover  disclose  sensitive  information  to  third 
parties, if: 

a) 

b) 

this  is  necessary  to  implement  the  Agreement  or  safeguard  the  EU  financial 
interests; and 
the recipients of the information are bound by an obligation of confidentiality. 

ARTICLE II.6 – PUBLICITY 

II.6.1 

Any communication  or  publication  by the  partners,  in  any  form  and  medium, shall 
indicate  that  sole  responsibility  lies  with  the  author  and  that  the  Agency  is  not 
responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein. 

II.6.2 

The partners authorise the Agency to publish the following information in any form 
and medium, including via the Internet: 

a)  The partners’ name and address; 

b)  The subject and purpose of the agreement; 

c)  The good practices and success stories achieved; 

d)  The  main  general  performance  indicators  such  as  the  number  of  advisory  and 

partnering achievements generated; 

in  accordance  with  the  political  priorities  and  founding  values  of  the  European 
Union.  

Following the period of suspension, the Agency reserves the right to terminate the 
grant  agreement  in  application  of  Article  II.11  or  to  resume  the  action  should  the 
exceptional circumstance no longer apply. 

ARTICLE II.9 – FORCE MAJEURE 

II.9.1 

II.9.2 

II.9.3 

Force majeure shall mean any unforeseeable exceptional situation or event beyond 
the  parties'  control  which  prevents  either  of  them  from  fulfilling  any  of  their 
obligations under the agreement, is not attributable to error or negligence on their 
part, and proves insurmountable in spite of all due diligence. Defects in equipment 
or material or delays in making them available (unless due to force majeure), labour 
disputes, strikes or financial difficulties cannot be invoked as force majeure by the 
defaulting party. 

A  party  faced  with  force  majeure  shall  inform  the  other  party  without  delay  by 
registered  letter  with  advice  of  delivery  or  equivalent,  stating  the  nature,  probable 
duration and foreseeable effects. 

Neither  of  the  parties  shall  be  held  in  breach  of  their  obligations  under  the 
agreement  if they  are  prevented from  fulfilling them  by  force majeure.  The  parties 
shall make every effort to minimise any damage due to force majeure. 

II.9.4 

Actions  under  way  which  are  subject  to  force  majeure  may  be  suspended  in 
accordance with Article II.8. 

e)  The names and contact details (email addresses) of the assigned staff to work on 

the Network. 

ARTICLE II.10 – ASSIGNMENT 

Upon a reasoned and duly substantiated request by the partners, the Agency may agree to 
forgo such publicity if disclosure of the information indicated above would risk compromising 
the partner's security or prejudicing his commercial interests. 

ARTICLE II.7 – EVALUATION 

Whenever the Agency carries out an evaluation of the action's impact measured against the 
objectives  of  the  SMP,  the  co-ordinator,  with  the  support  of  the  co-partners,  undertakes  to 
make  available  to  the  Agency  and/or  persons  authorised  by  it  all  such  documents  or 
information as will allow the evaluation to be successfully completed. 

ARTICLE II.8 – SUSPENSION 

II.8.1 

The  partners  may  suspend  the  implementation  of  the  action  if  exceptional 
circumstances  make  it  impossible  or  excessively  difficult,  notably  in  the  event  of 
force majeure. They shall inform the Agency without delay, giving all the necessary 
reasons and details and the foreseeable date of resumption. 

If the Agency does not terminate the agreement under Article II.11.3, the partners 
shall  resume implementation  once  circumstances  so  allow  and inform  the Agency 
accordingly. 

Claims against the Agency may not be transferred. 

In exceptional circumstances, the Agency may authorise the assignment of the agreement to 
a  third  party  following  a  reasoned  written  request  from  the  partners,  submitted  by  the 
coordinator. In such scenario, the Agency must make its agreement known in writing before 
the  proposed  assignment  takes  place.  In  the  absence  of  the  above  authorisation,  or  in  the 
event of failure to observe the terms thereof, the assignment shall not be enforceable against 
and shall have no effect on the Agency. 

In no circumstances shall such an assignment release the partners from their obligations to 
the Agency. 

ARTICLE II.11 – TERMINATION 

II.11.1 Termination by the co-ordinator 

In duly justified cases, the co-ordinator, in agreement with the co-partners, may terminate the 
agreement  at  any  time  by  giving  30  calendar  days’  written  notice.  Where  they  avail 
themselves  of  that  right,  they  must  undertake  to  complete  the  implementation  of  any 
cooperation agreement which has entered into force before the date when termination of the 
agreement takes effect. 

II.8.3  

The Agency reserves the right to suspend the implementation of the action any time 

II.11.2 Termination of the participation of a partner 

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In duly justified cases, a partner may terminate participation to the agreement at any time by 
giving 30 calendar days' written notice.  

The  request  should  be  addressed  to  the  Agency  by  the  co-ordinator  on  behalf  of  the 
concerned  partner.  The  co-ordinator  shall  include  with  any  such  request  to  the  Agency  the 
remaining  partners’  proposal  to  reallocate  the  tasks  of  the  leaving  partner  and,  where 
relevant, the nomination of a replacement complying with all requirements set out in the open 
invitation. 

The termination of the participation of the partner concerned shall take effect on the date of 
the  Agency’s  approval.  A  written  amendment  to  the  cooperation  agreement  shall  be 
concluded  between  both  the  Agency  and  the  partners  to  adapt  the  action  to  the  new 
implementing conditions resulting from the partial termination. 

II.11.3 Termination by the Agency 

The  Agency  may  decide  to  terminate  the  cooperation  agreement  or  the  participation  of  a 
partner to the agreement in the process of being implemented, without any indemnity on its 
part, in the following circumstances: 

with a short notice. 

II.11.5 Automatic termination of the agreement upon entry into force of a SMP specific 
agreement with third countries 

If a national government of a given country signs a specific agreement with the Commission 
to  be  associated  to  the  SMP  under  Article  5  SMP  Regulation,  entities  from  such  country 
become eligible to apply to a call for proposals to receive EU funding for providing Network 
services within its territory upon entry into force of the association agreement. 

The partners will be invited to participate in a competitive call for proposals. The application in 
the  call  for  proposals  may  lead  to  the  signature  of  a  grant  agreement  with  the  successful 
applicant(s) selected by the evaluation committee. This agreement will then expire as soon as 
the grant agreement with the selected applicant(s) enters into force. Should the partners not 
participate in the call or the application does not lead to the signature of a grant agreement, 
this agreement will expire upon entry into force of the association agreement. 

ARTICLE II.12 – SUPPLEMENTARY AGREEMENTS 

II.12.1  

Any amendment to the agreement must be the subject of a written supplementary 
agreement. No oral agreement may bind the parties to this effect. 

In the event of a legal, financial, technical, organisational or auditing change in the 
partners’ or partner's situation that is liable to substantially affect the agreement; 

II.12.2  

If  one  or  several  partners  fail  to  fulfil  one  or  more  obligations  incumbent  on  them 
under the terms of this agreement, including its Recitals and the Annex; 

The supplementary agreement may not have the purpose or the effect of making 
changes  to  the  agreement  which  might  call  into  question  the  decision  admitting 
the  partners to the  Network  or  which might  result  in  unequal  treatment  between 
partners. 

In the event of force majeure, notified in accordance with Article II.9, or if the action 
has  been  suspended  as  a  result  of  exceptional  circumstances,  notified  in 
accordance with Article II.8; 

II.12.3  

If the request for amendment is made by the co-ordinator, in agreement with the 
co-partners,  it  must  send  it  to  the  Agency  in  good  time  before  it  is  due  to  take 
effect. 

If one or several partners are declared bankrupt, being wound up or is the subject 
of any other similar proceedings; 

If  one  or several  partners  are  found  guilty  of  an  offence involving his  professional 
conduct by a judgment having the force of  res judicata or if it or they are guilty of 
grave professional misconduct proven by any justified means; 

If  one  or  several  partners  are  guilty  of  misrepresentation  or  submit  reports 
inconsistent with reality; 

g) 

In the event of any situation listed under Article II.8.3. 

II.11.4 Termination procedure 

The  procedure  is  initiated  by  registered  letter  with  advice  of  delivery  or  equivalent.  The  co-
ordinator shall ensure that all partners are duly informed. 

The  Agency  shall  first  submit  an  initiation  letter  of  the  termination  procedure  to  the  co-
ordinator and shall allow the partners to submit observations within 30 days. 

Following  the  receipt  of  the  reasons  given  by  the  partners,  or  in  case  that  no  statement  of 
reasons  has  been  received  following  a  reminder,  the  Agency  may  terminate  the  agreement 

if  required:  Data  Transfer  Agreement  between  separate  controllers 
[Enclosure 
pursuant  to  Commission  Implementing  Decision  (EU)  2021/914  of  4  June  2021  and 
Regulation (EU) 2018/1725] 

SIGNATURES 

For the Agency 
Ms Natalia Martínez Páramo,  
EISMEA Head of Unit I.02 

For the co-ordinator and co-partners 
Insert name(s) of org./acronym 
Insert name(s), forename(s), function(s) 

*   *   * 

32 

a) 

b) 

c) 

d) 

e) 

f)