EBN is one the most successful networks for supporting innovations in Europe. EBN is a network of around 140 quality-certified EU/BICs (business and innovation centers, incubators, accelerators and other supporting organizations) and approximately 100 Associate Members that support the development and growth of innovative entrepreneurs, start-ups and SMEs. EBN is the independent network under the auspices of UN and is well-known in EU as one of the leaders for consulting on the issues of innovations supporting. EBN representatives regularly assess the quality of residents of business centers and technoparks. KNRTU partner - «Idea» Innovative Technopark is the only technopark in Russia certified by EBN.

Javier Echarri joined EBN as its CEO in 2017 and has since then contributed to opening the network to all other stakeholders in the innovation market. Javier’s background is investment in early and growth stages. He managed the Invest Europe (Private Equity and Venture Capital Association) for 11 years, was Managing Director of a growth capital firm for four years, and remains actively involved in the Basque Region’s business angel community which he helped set up.

During his lecture at KNRTU, Javier Echarri spoke about investment issues and payed special attention to “responsible investment”. This approach means constant evaluation of the projects’ environmental impact, and their influence on social sphere and other aspects of life. «Responsible investment is regular monitoring of the projects’ parameters that can cause negative environmental impact now as well as in the future» — said Javier Echarri. During the lecture KNRTU faculty and students had a chance to ask their questions. They expressed their interest in the reasons of start-up failures, the most effective ways of product promotion and other topics.