Support through data, tailored to the specific needs of SMEs, is one of the cornerstones of the three-year (2023-2026) I3-INSHAPE project. This ambitious operation is one of the main activities of the project which specifically aims to build the I3-INSHAPE Data Portal and Services, as a future service for SMEs. The kick-off event of this activity in Valencia on the 22nd and 23rd of February marked the launch of this phase of the project work plan.  

Co-funded by the EU by the I3 program, I3-INSHAPE has a turnover of 9.5 million euros. Led by Cluster Sports & Technology (NL), it fosters collaboration between SMEs and project partners across different regions of European countries (South Netherlands, East Hungary, Lahti, Kajaani, and Lapland from Finland, Valencia, and Catalunya from Spain).   

Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, representing Kainuu Region, will contribute to this project by mapping the data portal services for sport and wellbeing companies in Kainuu Region.  

The overall aim of the project is to create an interregional, international, and self-sustainable hub where SMEs in the sports and vitality sector can scale up on the European market, building an innovative ecosystem for a positive impact on health and well-being in society thanks to SMEs’ services. The project's recent meeting in Valencia, hosted by Universidad Europea and 4iVLCESPORT, with the collaboration of Metric Salad and Blautic, marked the start of a significant step forward for the project. This specific data-oriented activity focuses on strengthening the digital infrastructure and facilitating data exchange across regions, ultimately empowering SMEs in the sports and vitality sectors along their innovation journey.  

Its goal is to build the I3-INSHAPE Data Portal and Services. This platform will serve as a central hub, fostering collaboration and data usage between flagship SMEs (already on board in the project), co-developer companies, and a second stream of additional SMEs from the participating EU regions. This will ultimately contribute to the growth and competitiveness of SMEs within the EU, facilitating the commercialization of services and attracting investments.  

In Valencia, project partners gained valuable insights crucial for supporting the specific needs of each SME and propelling them towards international success. The next appointment for partners, but also interested companies and stakeholders, is on the 8th and 9th of April in Lahti, one of the regions of Finland: SMEs will get matchmaking sessions with potential investors and other SMEs to further enhancing their opportunities for growth and expansion in the EU market.  

Follow I3-INSHAPE on LinkedIn and Twitter to stay updated and ask for information to the leaders Cluster Sport & Technology to know more. 
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EISMEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.