Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Satoru Kikuchi via Flickr

Ireland above EU average for innovation - study

A Europe-wide study rated us highly for research and skills – but noted a lack of financial support for innovative products.

IRELAND IS PRODUCING better innovation than many other European countries, according to a new study which found we are above average in the EU.

Excellent research systems and good human resources were particular strengths highlighted in the Innovation Union Scoreboard report on all 27 EU member states.

However, the report noted a “strong decline” in small businesses introducing innovative products, and said entrepreneurship was a weakness overall.

The availability of finance was also cited as a drawback. Organisations representing small and medium enterprises have repeatedly highlighted difficulties in securing credit from banks.

Sweden, Denmark, Germany and Finland topped the EU chart, qualifying as “innovation leaders” with performance well above average.

Ireland was part of a larger group dubbed “innovation followers”, just above the average mark. Ireland came just behind Luxembourg and the UK, and just ahead of France.

More: Small businesses report more difficulty in securing bank credit>

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
12 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds