Berkeley-Finland Day
Berkeley-Finland Day
|
|
|
|
Finland is known as very technology-oriented society. Especially information technology and wireless communications are applied widely in every day use. Finland is known also as a test laboratory for new telecommmunications applications and also considered an excellent test market for new high-technology products. Several IT companies have established research laboratories in Finland.
Tekes - your contact for Finnish technology
Tekes, the National Technology Agency, is the main financing organization for applied and industrial R&D in Finland. Funding is granted from the state budget.
Tekes' primary objective is to promote the competitiveness of Finnish industry and the service sector by technological means. Activities are aimed at diversifying production structures, increasing productivity and exports and creating a foundation for employment and social well-being. Tekes finances applied and industrial R&D in Finland to the extent of nearly 400 million euros annually. The Tekes network in Finland and overseas offers excellent channels for cooperation with Finnish companies, universities and research institutes.
Technology programs - part of the innovation chain
The technology programs are an essential part of the Finnish innovation system. These programs have proved to be an effective form of cooperation and networking for companies and the research sector for developing innovative products and processes. Technology programs promote development in specific sectors of technology or industry, and the results of the research work are passed on to business systematically. The programs also serve as excellent frameworks for international R&D cooperation. Currently, 45 extensive technology programs are under way.
Tekes Technology Programs NETS and ELMO
NETS Networks of the Future, and ELMO Miniaturising Electronics Programs cover the current top research and development activities in Finland in the field of telecommunications and miniature electronics. Tekes the National Technology Agency is the main public financing organization for research and development in Finland and is funding projects participating the programs. The funds for financing are awarded from the state budget.
Technology programs like NETS and ELMO are joint action of private ventures and government bodies, involving engagement for a common objective and preparedness to start, implement and fund research and development projects. NETS and ELMO programs are run during 2001-2005 with an estimated total budget of 210 million euros.
The emphasis of the NETS program is on development of wireless and broadband networks for the future needs. The emphasis of ELMO program is on miniaturising, integration, and cost-efficiency in electronics. By now over 100 R&D projects have been started under NETS and ELMO programs. More information can be found on web pages: