The IRC network exists in order to facilitate the transfer of innovative technologies to and from European companies or research departments. It is the largest such network in the world.
The mission of the IRCs is to support innovation and transnational technological co-operation in Europe with a range of specialised business support services. IRC services are primarily targeted at technology-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), but are also available to large companies, research institutes, universities, technology centres and innovation agencies.
see
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Innovation_Relay_Centre_Networkhttp://www.innovationrelay.net