Innovation Support
Program

Making the invisible visible. Why the process matters

At INSHAPE, we don’t just talk about innovation support—we build it, test it, and deliver it with real-world impact. That’s why we believe it’s important to make the “doing-side” of our work visible. Behind every supported SME, every co-developed solution, and every breakthrough, there’s a structured process and a committed network of experts, tools, and steps. 

This visualisation shows how our Innovation Support Programme works in practice—who does what, when, and how.

1
Foundation Phase
SME Matchmaking

Connect with flagships and co-developers based on innovation and investment potential

  • Formalize collaboration through agreements
  • Define a shared action plan
2
Needs & Service Structure
Gaps Analysis

Identify and validate key needs and gaps

  • ELIS Pitch Stop
  • Launch service catalogue
 
3
Service Framework Design
Service Delivery model

Design and implement the service delivery process

  • Set up marketplace structure
  • Define service agreements
  • Establish monitoring mechanisms
4
Operationalization Phase
Operationalize services

Allocate resources and operational tools

  • Service catalogue
  • Digi & data directory
  • External services
 
5
Testing & Validation
Prototype

Data-driven, user centered innovation development exploiting

  • Testing and validation services
  • Living labs
 
6
Go-to-Market
Commercialise & Market Entry

Test the waters:

  • MVP
  • Go-to-Market plan
 
7
Scaling & Impact
International Growth

Support SME expansion and investment readiness

  • Internationalisation strategy
  • Expand networks
  • Investor connections
  • Explore new funding opportunities
 

The Innovation Cycle

Driving Innovation for leading SMEs in sports

In the innovation cycle model, innovations are developed, validated, and accelerated in response to market demand to quickly and effectively introduce a service or product to the market. 

This model will be applied when, at the end of the I3-INSHAPE project, a network of self-sustainable interregional innovation Hubs for European SMEs in the field of Sports & Vitality will be created, paving the way for a positive impact on society’s health and wellbeing. 

I3-INHSAPE Project Logo