“The objective of the roundtable is to identify and agree upon a set of priority reforms, which will accompany the implementation of WB EDIF, supported by its technical assistance component” stated the representatives of the OECD Investment Compact for Southeast Europe,” OECD is assisting the WB EDIF project partners in identifying these reforms prior to the project launch foreseen for December 2012”.

“The discussion raised important issues related to providing funding and high value added support to the innovation and research and development in companies, as well as creating supportive environment for investment in innovative companies and development of venture capital funds”, stated Ljiljana Kundakovic, Interim Managing Director of the Innovation Fund, and added “Comprehensive approach and commitment from all the stakeholders and improved access to finances are crucial for future development of innovation based economy and sustainable job creation.”

The representatives from the EC, World Bank, international financial institutions, Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development, Ministry of Finance and Economy, research community and the private sector actively participated in the discussion at the roundtable.

Source: Innovation Fund