CAPTURE: The Knowledge Network
The idea for CAPTURE came from a group of medium-sized towns and cities which had been working together since 1991 through a network known as Eurotowns. In 2003, Eurotowns conducted detailed research into its members and found that the vast majority shared four main characteristics: first, a manufacturing sector that was restructuring or in decline; second, jobs that were of low value and low pay; third, the presence of a large number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); and lastly, high out-migration, particularly of young people seeking opportunities in larger neighbouring cities. CAPTURE aims to address these problems by stimulating business innovation, growth and regional economic development through technology transfer and the stimulation of knowledge-based companies within network member towns. It also hopes to promote pan-European dialogue and exchange, enabling small and medium-sized towns to strengthen their ability to contribute to regional development and social cohesion. The pre-existing network of Eurotowns will help this dialogue and exchange to be maintained on a long term basis.