International networking is a key driver of innovation and competitiveness – particularly in a dynamic technology field such as molecular diagnostics. nanodiag BW therefore aims to expand its activities at both the European and transatlantic levels and to strengthen strategic partnerships.
An important step in this direction was the participation of Cluster Manager Hanna Hasselblatt in the first ECA Cluster Conference, organised by the European Clusters Alliance. The conference brought together policy makers, representatives of the European Commission and cluster organisations from across Europe. Panel discussions, workshops and informal exchanges made one message clear: clusters play a crucial role in strengthening Europe’s competitiveness, innovation capacity and resilience. They act as the connecting “glue” between start-ups, SMEs, research institutions, industry, investors and policy makers.
A recurring topic throughout the conference was the ambition to reinforce European value chains in the context of the proposed European Competitiveness Fund (ECF). Many participants emphasised that tangible impact can only be achieved if clusters are supported not only through individual projects, but also institutionally and financially. For nanodiag BW, the conference provided valuable impulses, new contacts and deeper insights into upcoming European funding perspectives.
At the same time, nanodiag BW is actively advancing its internationalisation beyond Europe. With the project NPScan, the cluster has secured €60,000 in funding from the INITIATes programme of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). The project aims to establish new scientific collaborations with partners in North America.
Led by Sebastian Gutsch and supported by Tobias Ensslen, NPScan focuses on building strategic, long-term cooperation in nanodiagnostics and related technology fields. A central component is the planned networking with the Canadian partner Norcada, a leading developer of advanced nanotechnology platforms, and the scientific exchange with research groups. In addition, nanodiag BW will host a dedicated workshop bringing together researchers from Baden-Württemberg as well as from Canada and the United States. The objective is to foster scientific dialogue, identify shared research priorities and develop concrete collaboration concepts.
Building R&D collaborations was also a key topic at two meetings with imec, an internationally leading innovation center for micro- and nanoelectronics. A delegation from Belgium visited Freiburg in July 2025. From nanodiag BW, the University of Freiburg, Hahn-Schickard, and the NMI were involved. For the return visit, cluster spokesperson Felix von Stetten and Jan Behrends traveled to Leuven in November 2025. Through these activities, nanodiag BW strengthens its international visibility, expands its scientific network, and lays the foundation for future joint R&D initiatives.
By combining complementary expertise from Baden-Württemberg, Europe and North America, the cluster contributes to accelerating innovation pathways and reinforces its role as an innovation hub in the global diagnostics landscape.