The Executive Agency for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises of the European Commission, as part of the “Overseas Trade Fair Participation (OTF) programme”, which is dedicated to the implementation of Phase III of the SME Instrument, has opened two calls for participation in the following events:

• Bio International Convention, a global trade fair dedicated to biotechnology, which will be held in June 2017 in San Diego (USA). This initiative is aimed at beneficiaries of Phase 1 or Phase 2 of the SME Instrument programme in the following topics:

- SMEInst-02-2016-2017: Accelerating the uptake of nanotechnologies advanced materials or advanced manufacturing and processing technologies by SMEs
- SMEInst-03-2016-2017: Dedicated support to biotechnology SMEs closing the gap from lab to market

- SMEInst 05- Supporting innovative SMEs in the healthcare biotechnology sector

- SMEInst-07 -Stimulating the innovation potential of SMEs for sustainable and competitive agriculture, forestry, agri-food and bio-based sectors

• IE Expo, one of the most important Asian trade fairs in the environmental sector, which will be held in Shanghai (China) in May 2017;

This initiative is aimed at beneficiaries of Phase 1 or Phase 2 of the SME Instrument programme in the following topics:

- SMEInst-03-2016-2017: Dedicated support to biotechnology SMEs closing the gap from lab to market

- SMEInst-04-2016-2017: Engaging SMEs in space research and development

- SMEInst-09-2016-2017: Stimulating the innovation potential of SMEs for a low carbon and efficient energy system

- SMEInst-11-2016-2017: Boosting the potential of small businesses in the areas of climate action, environment, resource efficiency and raw materials

For both events, the Commission will provide a contribution equal to 50% and up to a maximum of €1,000 towards travel, accommodation and other support services (regulatory advice and assistance, stand customisation and translation, other travel services) incurred by the company.

Furthermore, a team of experts will be available to support the company in its participation at the fair with accompanying services, such as

- Pre-departure briefing;

- Preparation for participation in the mission;

- Support with feedback and follow-up with partners met.

Selected companies will then be able to exhibit their project free of charge at the European Commission stand.

To participate, you must submit the Application Form, which can be found by clicking here, no later than 13 January..