We have been using trams to get about European cities since the 1880s. But one German firm looking to improve urban rail transport found it could reach its destination faster by hopping on board the Enterprise Europe Network.

Guided transport systems consultancy Die Ingenieurwerkstatt had successfully applied for funding under FP6, the European Commission's 6th Research Framework Programme. Now, CEO Christian Trescher and his 32 staff wanted to make a new project proposal under FP7’s transport programme. But, to apply, they needed to partner with universities and companies from new Member States.

Trescher got in touch with his local Network branch, Enterprise Europe Network Hessen in Wiesbaden, after spotting its partner search service in one of its newsletters. Network expert Aleksandra Sadowska helped him to narrow his search down to Poland, her native country.

She used her Polish language skills and contacts with Network partners in Krakow, Szczecin and beyond to source potential partners. Trescher chose Krakow's tram company and the University of Applied Science, and, with Sadowska's help, reached an agreement.

“We were very surprised at the great commitment of the Enterprise Europe Network Hessen consultant and even more at the quick response of Polish companies and the successful partner research,” says Trescher.