Networking has become a buzz word in business and management, and evidence is abundant that good networking promotes increased business-to-business activity, as well as opportunities for creative thinking and problem solving. This is particularly important in the Northern Periphery region given the climatic, geographic, environmental and social composition. i2i aims to connect networks of people through an internet based platform, in order to develop an integrated process to facilitate and support innovation within complex partnerships (micro/SME sectors, academia and public authorities) across the 5 partner countries. The positive exploitation of their inherent knowledge, expertise, and personal and professional networks, will result in new business opportunities across the sectors. An important element of this is the provision of explicit guidance and mentoring on how to develop effective transnational networking relationships, through the creation of a guide and learning tools. This will offer the opportunity for individual, organisational and systemic learning through case studies, exchange of experience through meetings and conferences, as well the development of competence in cross-sector, multi-disciplinary networking. Expected Results: · enhanced and integrated communication channels in the northern periphery· personal and professional benefits through participating in the project or by gaining access to the information and signposting available on the internet platform. Personal benefits would include greater understanding of the concept of networking, and explicit advice on how and why to improve these skills through case studies and tips (both at the networking events and on the website), as well as the added value of meeting like-minded or complementary individuals.· heightened awareness within SMEs, and other organisations involved in the project, of the value of networking and collaboration· development of new projects, new business opportunities, better use of resources, improved personal skills and increased transnational and cross-border activity· innovative approaches to building partnerships and business momentum· solutions to existing business problems in the periphery, i.e. succession planning