Cementing the future of nanotechnology Nanotechnology is one of the most promising research and development (R&D) sectors and Europe enjoys a leading position in the field. One EU-backed project set out to maximise the gain from its research efforts by building synergies between national and European initiatives and programmes. Industrial Technologies © Thinkstock Nanotechnology’s importance can be gleaned from the plethora of national and European initiatives, such as technology platforms and networks focusing on this area of research. However, so much diverse activity is bound to lead to a certain degree of fragmentation. The 'A cross-ETP coordination initiative on nanotechnology' (Nanofutures) project sought to create greater synergies between European and national nanotechnology platforms, research programmes, joint technology initiatives, networks, coordinated support actions and individual research projects. Nanofutures also aimed to identify key strategic nodes to promote innovation and uptake. The project's most significant success was to draw up and disseminate an integrated Nanofutures research and innovation road map for 2013 to 2025. It achieved this through its website, printed information products, social networking tools and Nanofutures 'lighthouses', which connect regional stakeholders to the Nanofutures programme. The road map is based on a value-chain approach that seeks to maximise successful commercialisation. This will be a boon for industry, which will be able to capitalise on innovations, and for consumers, who can access better products at better prices.