For two years, the National Synchrotron Radiation Centre SOLARIS has worked on the international project Baltic TRAM (Transnational Research Access in the Microregion). The aim of the project was to strengthen the relationships and cooperation between research institutions and businesses. It was realised by Baltic Sea region countries such as Poland, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.
The chief purpose of Baltic TRAM was to encourage small and medium-sized businesses to make use of research infrastructure. Selected companies could participate in specialised consultations and trainings. They also had access to research facilities to test their innovative ideas.
Thanks to Baltic TRAM, a number of companies from Poland was able to conduct research studies in scientific centres free of charge. Within its framework, funding was secured for scientists and equipment needed for every project. Based on individual needs, companies could choose any of the Baltic region research institutions, including the Jagiellonian University.
Valuable insight provided by research may provide an incentive for businesses to take advantage of universities’ scientific potential in the future, while working with entrepreneurs may prove to be an interesting experience for young researchers. In the case of SOLARIS, 12 Jagiellonian University scientists entered partnerships with 4 companies.
Baltic TRAM also served as an opportunity to analyse Poland’s strategies involving the development of research infrastructure and smart specialisation. The collected data will assist policy makers in improving laws and regulations regarding these issues.
The project was co-funded by the European Union. In the long run, it will result in increased innovativeness and competiveness of the Baltic Sea region.
