The main objective of the project is to develop a common plan for realisation of Young Innovative Company Status for biotech companies in Sweden, Norway, Estonia and Finland, and to disseminate the experience gained to biotech organisations in other parts of Europe.

National Task forces have been established in each of the four countries to promote and encourage the adoption of the YIC in each country. They consist of high level stakeholders and representatives from the participating organisations. The groups were established during the first three project months and they function as advisors and sounding boards to the project. Close contacts between the groups have been established.

Contacts to the head of the team in each country:

• Estonia - Piret Kukk, Estonian Biotech Association
  Mobile: + 372 56 66 49 59
  Email: piret@biotech.ee
  Web site: www.biotech.ee

• Finland - Saara Hassinen, Director, Finnish Bioindustries
  Tel: +358 9 1728 4308
  Email: saara.hassinen@finbio.net
  Web site: http://www.finbio.net

• Norway - Thor AMLIE, Director, Norwegian Bioindustry Association
  Phone: +47 230 88 000 Mobile: +47 911 05 491
  Email: thor.amlie@nho.no
  Web site: http://www.biotekforum.no

• Sweden - Per Vretblad, Head of Biotechnology, SIK
  Phone: +46 18 188527, Mobile: +4670 6085610
  Email: per.vretblad@sik.se
  Web site : http://www.sik.se

  Per-Erik Sandlund, CEO, SwedenBIO
  Phone: +46 (0)8-21 36 02
  Email: per-erik.sandlund@swedenbio.com
  Web site: http://www.swedenbio.com

A benchmarking study was performed, with data collected both through desk research and through interviews with international decision makers. The study provided a foundation for a fact-based discussion and input to a high level seminar in February, 2007. Preparation of national implementation plans will be carried out. They will finally be collected in a common document.
Dissemination of the project results is a key issue in the proposed cooperation. Briefings will be organised for journalists, meetings will be set up for targeted stakeholders and a training manual and a handbook for policy makers will be developed. The information material is available from this web site.

Start date of the project: 1.10.2005; End date: 30.09.2007; Duration 24 months