For the first time in its history, Holland High Tech has launched a call specifically aimed at involving and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): the HighTech SME Call. This call challenges entrepreneurs to collaborate with research organisations over a two-year period on innovative projects. With a total budget of €5 million, the call supports industrial research focused on the development and application of key enabling technologies. In doing so, Holland High Tech – also known as the Top Sector High Tech Systems and Materials – strengthens the knowledge base and R&D capacity of SMEs, enabling innovations to reach the market faster and more effectively. In this first round, 13 projects have been awarded funding, focusing on areas such as parallel test methods for quantum chips, real-time molecular analysis of antibiotic-resistant tuberculosis, coordinated drone formations for solar irradiance measurement, and breakthrough technology for 3D chip interconnects in the semiconductor industry.
Globalization means that innovation processes are moving faster than ever, and responding to this requires a great deal of knowledge and capacity for action. The key technologies in our Knowledge and Innovation Agenda are widely applicable and constantly evolving. We respond to progress through our current programs.