MERINA KMU is part of the WIR!-Bündnis „region 4.0“ and builds on the MERINA online learning platform developed at Film University Babelsberg by adding a fourth phase with a new focus.
Whereas the previous project concentrated on practical film skills in educational settings, MERINA KMU is aimed specifically at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Uckermark–Barnim–Uecker-Randow region.
Funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), the project develops and tests a research-based, modular training programme that helps companies plan, produce, and use audiovisual content independently and strategically. Its goal is to embed these skills sustainably within everyday business processes.
The project is grounded in a needs analysis of regional companies. This analysis shows that many SMEs already have access to technical tools such as smartphones and social media channels, but rarely use audiovisual communication in a strategic way. At the same time, there is a strong demand for hands-on training formats that can be applied directly in practice.
In response, the project team is developing a modular training programme tailored to the communication needs of SMEs. It focuses on three main areas:
- attracting skilled workers through authentic insights into daily work and company culture
- preserving knowledge by documenting practical experience and workflows
- making innovation visible through clear communication of technological and organisational expertise
During the practical phase, the training programme will be tested in collaboration with two pilot companies. These companies will put the acquired skills into practice and independently develop audiovisual formats suited to their specific communication needs.
In the long term, MERINA KMU aims to integrate the concept into regional networks and educational structures. In this way, the project creates a sustainable support framework that strengthens the communication capacities of SMEs and fosters collaboration between industry, education, and media production.
