Midlands Innovation Relay Centre

The Euro Info Centre (EIC) is part of a pan-European business support network that provides up-to-date information on European Directives and Regulations, business opportunities, funding, research and development initiatives and much more. With direct access to the latest information, documents and databases the EIC can assist West Midlands SMEs get the right answers to their questions and support them in realising their business ambitions in Europe.

Established in 1987, the network has over 300 centres operating across 42 counties. Its privileged relationship with the European Commission via the Enterprise & Industry Directorate means it can add real value to SMEs.

The EIC offers a wide range of free services to SMES including:

• Enquiry Service – an effective and down-to-earth enquiry service that tackles questions relating to all areas of European Union policy relevant to SMEs including legislation, funding, business opportunities and market information.
• Business Co-operation Partners & Opportunities – a business co-operation service putting SMEs in touch with new customers, suppliers and partners for joint ventures across the continent.
• Funding Searches – a grant finding service to help find the best possible sources of European funds for SMEs.
• Problem Solving – Interactive Policy Making (IPM) is a service that allows SMEs to influence policy making in Brussels. Any problems/complications that SMEs have encountered relating to trade within the EU, will be documented and sent to Brussels for further analysis.
• EU News - a regular news bulletin “EIC Newsletter” that provides key information on EU policy, markets, events and local support available to SMEs.
• Events – seminars/information events on European Union matters effecting local SMEs.

For further information about the services offered by the EIC Network in the Midlands contact:

West Midlands

Birmingham Euro Info Centre
Tel: 0121 455 0268
E-mail: Birmingham Euro Info Centre
Website: Birmingham Euro Info Centre website
Business Opportunities In Europe Newsletter July-Aug 07

East Midlands

Nottingham Euro Info Centre
Tel: 0115 933 0033
E-mail: Nottingham Euro Info Centre
Website: Nottingham Euro Info Centre website