KAUKAS Kaupallistamiskyvykkyydellä kasvua pk-yrityksiin: maturiteettimalli johdon tueksi

KAUKAS Project (Growth for SMEs through Commercialization Capabilities) focuses on strengthening the commercialization skills of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through research and practical collaboration. The project aims to develop a new, flexible, research-based commercialization maturity model explicitly tailored to the unique needs of SMEs, such as limited resources and the central role of management in strategic decision-making. Existing commercialization models, such as the widely known Stage-Gate model, typically serve larger companies but tend to be overly rigid and cumbersome for SMEs. To address this gap, KAUKAS offers a practical and agile solution.



The project's primary target group consists of growth-oriented SMEs, for which enhancing commercialization expertise can significantly boost competitiveness and growth potential. Nine companies from diverse industries contribute both financially and as research subjects. Participating companies benefit directly from the project by receiving practical tools and strategic recommendations to develop their commercialization capabilities and optimize resource allocation.



LAB University of Applied Sciences is the project's coordinator and central implementing organization. It is responsible for research planning, data collection, analysis, and transferring the results to participating companies and educational programs. LAB's experts, specializing in commercialization, strategic management, and business development, oversee the project's execution and research activities. Additionally, international cooperation, particularly with universities located in Canada, is integrated into the project, providing valuable international benchmarking and insights.



Within the project, a commercialization maturity assessment tool is developed, helping companies identify strengths and areas needing improvement in their commercialization processes. This maturity model provides SMEs with concrete, strategically meaningful methods to evaluate and enhance their commercialization capabilities in continuously evolving market conditions. Furthermore, the project generates practical educational materials and real-world case examples integrated into LAB University's teaching, particularly at the Master’s level in the commercialization study module. Students benefit from research-based knowledge, which they can apply directly to their theses and business development projects.



Expected outcomes include a new commercialization maturity model and substantial new research knowledge supporting SMEs' strategic management. Companies will enhance their ability to commercialize innovations, driving growth, profitability, and internationalization potential. The project also aims for broader societal impact, as improved commercialization expertise strengthens the competitiveness and development of the SME sector nationally. Lessons learned and tools developed within the project are available to other Finnish SMEs, amplifying the project’s overall impact and significance for businesses and education.