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4. Support the ERA initiative on Blue Biotechnology and encourage the links with SMEs. 4.4 Objective 2: Promote integration of knowledge and exploratory infrastructure 4.4.1 Preliminary analysis of objective 2 As noted earlier in the report, marine biotechnology is reliant upon scientific knowledge and technological innovation. A significant share of this scientific and technological potential lies with research infrastructures that range from databases and libraries through large and small-scale research facilities (e.g. laboratories) to research vessels, communication networks, and computing facilities. While some of these facilities are accessible to research centres and large enterprises, SMEs often rely upon involvement with large publicly financed consortia to gain access to such infrastructure. SMEs are highly cost-sensitive and are mostly involved in the earlier phase of the supply chain. Therefore for them access to infrastructure – e.g. research vessels and underwater vehicles mostly owned by public operators - is a crucial element of product development. Currently there is limited knowledge regarding the extent to which these vessels (including those that are owned by private enterprises) are being used for bioprospecting purposes. Therefore a common platform with information regarding the availability and accessibility of these vessels could further contribute to facilitating research. An important element within this objective would be the promotion of an integrated database with information regarding samples and data that have been collected by the research vessels and stored at biobanks. Improving transparency regarding the types of samples and biospecimens collected through bioprospecting could support SMEs and facilitate access to information. 4.4.2 Overview of possible policy actions A number of EU level policy actions are envisaged to support the integration of knowledge and exploratory infrastructure. These include: 1. Setting up a data repository mapping the use of exploratory vessels for bioprospecting purposes; 2. Explore the possible ways and the extent to which private maritime exploratory infrastructure can be used to support public research and bioprospecting; and 3. Create a live database and map of existing and planned genetic resources stored in biobanks, (including information on the composition of the biomaterials, their source of origin, the users and the depositors). 4.5 Specific objective 3: Facilitate access to finance for second and third rounds of product development 4.5.1 Preliminary analysis of objective 3 As start-ups, spin-outs and mid-size companies rely strongly on external financing across the value chain. It is therefore essential that information and access to public and private financing initiatives remains available throughout the product development process. 64 Study in support of Impact Assessment work on Blue Biotechnology

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