“SPICE” - supportive instruments for competitive enterprises

This paper proposes a blended learning model for increasing competitiveness of SMEs and indirectly regional economies. It is based on a mix of in-class-workshops and on e-learning. The curriculum is tailored to specific industries (e.g. food) and adjusted to the needs of course participants. The needs are assessed through a due-diligence. Technology is the vector for implementing theories learned. Free-software tools are offered for free (e.g inventory management, CRM). The model was tested in South Tyrol (Italy). The promising results obtained suggest that the model can be replicated in other areas. Public co-funding (e.g. local, EU sponsorship) opportunities can be exploited for covering project costs.