The problem of SMEs lacking resources, infrastructure, legislative framework and trust in developing countries is, in most cases, tackled by organizing some sort of protective innovation hub. This hub is usually sponsored and run by some sort of intermediary body or agent, whether it be a government body or an independent one.

This intermediary needs to be well experienced, organized and unbiased when it comes to innovation projects. It’s role should be to help innovative partners connect, collaborate and share results in a fair way. But, as research suggests, these intermediaries should not “find partners” for the SMEs; rather, they should empower SMEs to find partner on their own, and to help them connect and collaborate.