I-CON

Several Central European countries (Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia), including certain regions of Hungary, are facing declining job opportunities in traditional industries. This phenomenon can be attributed to structural changes that have taken place in recent years and is linked to the innovation capacity of companies. For this reason, we must take steps to stimulate the economic activity of companies, increase employment, and promote economic development, especially in the more backward sectors.  

Analyses have shown that the FOOD INDUSTRY is one of the most important potential links in the chain, facing constant challenges and requiring improvement in economic indicators.

The main objective of the I-CON project, launched within the framework of the Interreg Central Europe Programme, is to improve entrepreneurial competencies and skills through innovations in the food industry. The project involves 10 partners (from different countries) whose aim is to continuously assist and mentor the participating companies. The process is based on the following four milestones:

  1. As a first step, we are conducting a survey among regional food industry SMEs to gain an accurate picture of their operations, opportunities, and shortcomings. As a result, we will establish a regional sector diagnosis
  2. The next milestone is to build on the diagnosis made above and create a common platform where we can facilitate communication between participating businesses, develop their problem-solving skills, and provide ongoing advice.
  3. We will then collect the knowledge and experience gained in this way and make it available to SMEs so that they can help each other's operations (even at an international level).
  4. Finally, the main goal is to develop a common strategy focused on sustainable operation.

The result of the project will therefore be a joint food industry strategy system developed within the framework of international cooperation, under which participants will be able to take advantage of free advice and additional service packages: we will put together a package for them offering customized automation, mechanical engineering developments, food safety, and design services. The means to achieve this is to work together to develop the business skills that will help a company remain competitive in the sector.

Main data of the project:

Project title: I-CON – Improving COmpetences and skills through Food sector InNovations
Project code: CE393
Partners:

  • Pomurje Technology Park – Slovenia
  • CCIS-Chamber of Agricultural and Food Enterprises Slovenia
  • Business Upper Austria
  • Campden BRI Hungary Ltd
  • South Transdanubian Regional Innovation Agency – Hungary
  • CNA Regional Association os Emilia Romagna Italy
  • Industry Association Service & Training of Treviso and Pordenone – Italy
  • Hohenheim University Germany
  • Polish Chamber of Food Industry and Packaging – Poland
  • Slovak Chamber of Commerce and Industry – Slovakia


Project budget in EUR: 2.216.448,40 €
ERDF funding in EUR: 1.833.568,10 €
Funding program: Interreg CENTRAL EUROPE
Project duration: 06.2016 – 05.2019

(More information: http://www.interreg-central.eu/Content.Node/I-CON.html)