The new RISE Research and Innovation Staff Exchange scheme as part of the well-proven Marie Sklodowska-Curie actions responds to the SMEs’ need to continuously updating competences related to current academic, science and research trends. The new European SME instrument is part of the “Industrial Leadership” and “Societal Challenges” pillars of Horizon 2020. It intends to fund high-potential innovative SMEs to develop ground-breaking innovative ideas for products, services or processes that are ready to face global market competition. The testimonials will demonstrate how these two funding schemes could be used to address specific regional challenges. The audience is invited to enquire and discuss with the experts on the panel.Target audience:- EU, national, regional and local policy/decision makers- Authorities managing and evaluating cohesion policy programmes and projects- Other stakeholders: private companies, financial institutions, European and national associations- Academics, students and researchers