Preparation for H2020 SME Instrument phase 1 - Leading Change

Leading Change AS (LEAD/) is the first company in Norway and Europe that is focusing exclusively on leveraging the specialized expertise of former military personnel. By combining the best of military control systems and operational models with leading private sector solutions, the company has already achieved high credibility with key stakeholders. LEAD/ has been able to help veterans return to the work force (a problem) while achieving increased efficiency, implementation capacity and value creation for private- and public sector players. We've thus taken one problem to solve another, and LEAD/ represents a service innovation both in terms of recruiting specialized and unique qualified personnel, but also in the ability to solve complex operational challenges. A partnership has been crafted with DNV-GL to combine "the ones with the strongest professional background" (DNV-GL) with "the ones with the most operational experience" (LEAD/). A high security database comprising more than 2,000 former military and special forces personnel comprise a unique asset. The overriding objective of the implementation project will - as per the SME Instrument phase 1 program's guideline - be to deliver a Feasibility Study underpinning the development and commercialization journey of Leading Change. The study will summarize tasks and activities related to e.g. risk assessment, market study, user involvement, IP (database protection law), innovation strategy development, partner search and feasibility of concept. In addition, work during phase 1 is expected to also conclude on whether we could frame the conditions and address the Horizon2020 SME Instrument phase 2 program.