Scheme Details

Madr&d is a network of public research centres and private non-profit entities dealing with technological innovation. Its aim is to raise awareness about the regional supply of science and technology, coordinate available resources, identify and follow up regional needs for technology and innovation.

Rationale and objectives

Madr&d, the Regional Information and Technological Promotion System was established as a result of the RITTS project. The network is built on agreement between R&D institutions and more than 1000 Madrid-based innovative firms. The system includes 35 Members: 11regional universities, 12 public research centres, municipalities and regional and national enterprise associations. Members of the network have a common database and a common technology transfer methodology. Moreover they have a common tool for technology audits and for the valorisation of technologies, as well as common process to follow up commercialisation and other common services.   The main objectives of the network are:

• Assist high quality research;
• Promote cooperation between firms and R&D Institutions;
• Strengthen scientific culture;
• Rise awareness of innovation and European cooperation.

Key activities

Madr&d includes several initiatives such as:  

• Sector-specific “Innovation Circles” consisting of companies, researchers and other experts have been set up to assist companies with the introduction and development of Technology Watch and Economic Intelligence activities. The innovation circles operate in areas of biotechnology; materials; microsystems and nano-technology; ICT; and environment and energy.
• Provision of science and technology indicators for the region of Madrid.
• Information on regional innovation policies and main regional programmes devoted to research and innovation.
• Information on European programmes and initiatives, including EU funding advice, the search for transnational partners, the organisation of events, and the availability of the services provided by the regional office of Madrid in Brussels.
• Employment portal, which makes available the demand for jobs by highly qualified people and university students, as well as job offers from companies.
• Technology transfer, particularly through the services rendered by the local innovation relay centre (IRC Madrid).
• Creation of and support to innovative companies through Madrid's Virtual Incubator (VVE/CM), which represents an opportunity to offer entrepreneurs a variety of supporting services.
• Access to the Laboratory Network of Public Research Organisms and the possibility to take advantage of a series of services that include testing and calibration, and information and participation in technical events.

  The network provides services off and on line.

Funding information

All of services are co-financing by the Institutions.

Outcomes

The concept of Madr&d has become a regional trademark used to market the available innovation competence. The network has facilitated the cooperation between SMEs, raised the awareness of innovation and fostered regional economic growth. In 2002 there were 2,900 visits in companies, 90,000 documents downloaded, and 71,000 registration forms filled.