Applications are open until 17 March for the innovation and technology project for light industries (ELIIT project). The project aims to support SMEs in the textile, clothing, leather and footwear (TCLF) sectors in improving their competitiveness by helping them integrate new technologies into innovative or high value-added products, processes or services.

ELIIT will support the transfer of innovation and technology, as well as the market uptake of innovative solutions. This will be achieved by developing concrete pilot actions to improve productivity, value chain integration and resource efficiency.

25 partnerships will be selected from projects involving TCLF SMEs and providers or owners of innovative technologies that are ready or near-ready for industrial scale-up. These partnerships will last for an indicative period of 12 to 18 months, during which they will benefit from:

• €70,000 in financial support for the development of high value-added and profitable products or prototypes
• tailored coaching and consultancy to improve project relevance and increase capabilities
• networking activities and participation in workshops, conferences and exhibitions to foster market positioning and build business relationships
• organisation and assistance regarding intellectual property rights

To benefit from ELIIT support, SMEs in the TCLF sectors and providers/owners of innovative technologies must register and submit their application via the electronic monitoring system (EMS platform).

The deadline for applications is Tuesday 17 March 2020, 17:00 CET.

Potential applicants can search for partners on the EMS platform and complete their application. For further information on the application process, eligibility criteria, financial support and other benefits, as well as the ELIIT help desk service, click here.