This report takes the national imaging facility (NIF) as a case study in how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gain access to national public research infrastructure.
Access to government-funded advanced scientific infrastructure such as equipment, facilities and staff is a way that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups can jumpstart and extend their innovation activities.
The report seeks to identify engagement successes and shortfalls that represent potential areas to leverage and improve. It provides material for policy discussions within the NIF administration, NIF nodes and our department. SMEs may also find it useful to help them understand how other firms view engagement with research entities like those represented by the NIF nodes.