Three questions, double expertise, one topic

Knowledge transfer is not just a buzzword at Bayern Innovativ, it is part of everyday life. Whether in advising on funding or with our transformation guides directly on site. It's all about transforming knowledge into impact. Our common goal: putting innovations into practice can only succeed if knowledge flows. We asked our experts how this works in practice.

Elke Büttner, deputy head of the Bavarian project management organization, Bayern Innovativ:

Elke, finding the right funding program is not easy. How does Bayern Innovativ navigate interested parties through the funding jungle and what role does knowledge transfer play in your daily work?

We pass on our knowledge of the funding programs via workshops, webinars, trade fairs and events. Local authority economic development officers are often our multipliers. The first point of contact for interested parties is my colleagues at Förderlotsen, who have their own advice hotline. They provide information on funding programs at state, federal and EU level. Once a suitable funding project from the Free State of Bavaria has been identified, the project management agency provides advice on how to submit a specific application.

Keyword application - what further advice do the experts from Bayern Innovativ provide for applicants? How can complex funding programs be made accessible?

We support the entire process from application to project completion. Funding recipients benefit from our technical background as well as our knowledge of the administrative and state aid framework. This transfer of knowledge makes funding programs accessible.

What are the biggest challenges for the project sponsor?

The heterogeneity of the target groups is our biggest challenge. We advise master craftsmen and university professors, start-ups and large companies. Individual advice and support are essential for us. We respond to the specific needs of the individual applicants - that is our USP.

Dirk Maaß, Head of Transformation Pilot, Bayern Innovativ

1 Dirk, as a transformation pilot, you are constantly in close contact with Bavarian companies of all sizes. Where do they struggle when it comes to issues such as knowledge transfer or sharing knowledge in-house?

Knowledge is often stored in the heads of individuals - and this is precisely what becomes a problem when these people leave the company. Many companies know that they need to take action here, but in day-to-day business they don't have the time or the right structure to systematically record and pass on knowledge. In addition, sharing knowledge also means living an open culture - and that requires trust and leadership that actively promotes this exchange.

2. what importance do companies attach to the topics of further training and qualifications - especially in the current climate, when many companies are having to make tough calculations?

The awareness is there: you can't do without qualifications. But implementation is difficult. Some companies still see further training as a cost factor rather than an investment. Others are breaking new ground - they are using collaborative solutions, cooperating with universities or relying on internal learning formats. What is exciting is that smaller companies in particular are often very pragmatic and creative when it comes to retaining and developing knowledge within the company.

3. what advice can you give as a transformation guide?

It is important to have the topic of qualification and skills development at the top of the agenda. Especially when transformation processes are underway or imminent. New products, new services, new business models mean that qualifications and skills must be available in the relevant areas at an early stage. Knowledge is not a product of chance - it needs structures, but also an attitude. My advice: start small. Make knowledge visible - for example with short exchange formats, mentoring or a digital knowledge platform. And above all: create space for discussions. Because knowledge transfer always starts with communication.