The ERA-PRISM project addresses the need to move beyond a one-size-fits-all research and innovation policy mix for EU member states and to take account of the inherent differences in context, resources and scale affecting small countries. The project brings together small European countries and larger member states with which have traditional/ historical links in research and innovation with a view to developing collaborative policies and initiatives. Through the ERA-PRISM project, small countries will, with the support of larger EU member states, work on: • Defining small country-specific policy responses to the key emerging R&I policy challenges in particular the Green Paper on the European Research Area, • Developing an appropriate balance of demand and supply side policies. Efforts will focus specifically on the lead markets initiative, innovative and green public procurement including pre-commercial public procurement, R&D indicators and frameworks for research funding. A mutual learning platform will be set up to maximize the beneficial exchanges. The project will address these challenges through policy coordination activities and foresight approaches within the context of a mutual learning environment open to both active partners in the project and other member states and regions. It is envisaged that the results will be of interest to regions and cities and to those responsible for developing the ERAWATCH and Pro-Inno information platforms.