Within the Europe INNOVA initiative (funded by the European Commission under the 6th Framework Programme), STEPPIN is part of the Standards Network which aims to demonstrate the competitive advantages of applying standards to enhance innovation in Europe. STEPPIN intends to give insights into how reference to open standards in public procurement processes can improve innovation performance.

The ambition of STEPPIN is to stimulate innovation by improving the way existing open standards are used in European public procurement processes. Based on a survey of the current situation and extensive discussion with and involvement of networked stakeholders, the project will develop a practical handbook with guidelines for making reference to open standards in procurement. Workshops in different Member States intend to convince individuals and organisations how to use the findings in their daily procurement work. Finally, policy recommendations will be communicated to the relevant Commission services with recommendations for activities at European, national or local level.

For more information about the project, please contact info@steppin.eu or visit the project website.