Importance of Networks, Research & Dialogue Dr Riitta Korpela Valio Ltd March 17, 2006

Contents 1.The importance of research to industry 2.Ideal network 3.The present status: Valio’s example 4.Possible new working tools

The rationale for the establishment of Valio’s R&D Laboratory was given by the Valio Board in 1916: ’Only such a country whose entire economy is based on science, is able to reach and maintain the first place in the economic war between nations.’

Characteristics of a good industrial partner tolerant cooperative reliable patient flexible open far-sighted rewarding professional ambitious Ref. Members of the Scientific Board of Valio 2005

My requirements for an ideal academic partner ethical professional innovative cost-effective complementary

Valio – Firsts in Europe Low lactose product category Lactose free milk products Probiotic Lactobacillus Commercialised bioactive peptide Tailored milk for weight management

How did we it? 1.By having the base on sound, transparent, ethical, high quality science. 2.By networking with excellences. 3.By recruiting talented, efficient, ambitious, innovative scientists. 4.By having ambitious, clear goals. 5.By having a scientific board. 6.By support of CEO and the Board.

Valio Networks EU-programmes EU-platforms Alliances Scientific networks Academy of Finland TEKES SITRA R&D

An example of a co-operation project LIDIA Tekes project Valio Ltd R&D -project co-ordination - clinical research National Public Health Institute University of Turku TNO PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MIIKKA Tekes project Valio Ltd, R&D project co-ordination VTT Biotechnology, Turku and Helsinki University of Helsinki, Inst. of Biotechnology Tekes project University of Kuopio and VTT University of Helsinki, Institute of Biomedicine Foundation for Nutrition Research

History of collaboration IndustryAcademia

Next steps, possible tools 1.Promotion of links between academic and industry researchers: training options, exchange of researchers, theses 2.Pioneering of dual positions 3.Industrial aspects to education programmes: visiting lectures, seminars, visits, grants 4.Use of common resources: equipments etc. 5.PhD programmes into industry 6.Participation in EU and international platforms

”In small countries money has to be compensated with intelligence!”