European micro/nanomanufacturing community
MNMTs are already making a significant contribution to some of the main socioeconomic challenges of the 21st century. Areas of application include sustainable energy development, global security, diagnosis and therapy for some of the most devastating diseases. Previously, a Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) project led to the establishment of the European Micro- and Nanomanufacturing (MINAM) Technology Platform. Building on this, the EU-funded project MINAM 2.0 developed a Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) to speed-up commercialisation of new technologies. The SRA focuses on several thematic areas, including processing and manufacturing of nanomaterials, micro-manufacturing and systems integration. MINAM 2.0 strengthened the ties among regional research and development clusters, European Technology Platforms (ETPs) and Networks of Excellence (NoEs), facilitating research cooperation through several activities. The network was expanded to include more industrial partners. They provided important input for the identification of technology needs and current barriers that are common to the members as a whole. As a result, the team formulated technology development strategies with regard to MNMTs to speed-up the commercialisation of laboratory prototypes. To this end, the members also established research and commercial advisory services for companies with an eye on small- and medium-sized enterprises as well as a Joint Research Agenda (JRA). MINAM 2.0 concluded that the strength of the community of networks will be critical in overcoming the lack of infrastructure and expertise in microsystems as well as ensuring sustainability in MNMTs. This MINAM website is considered a one-stop shop for the MNMTs community to coordinate the demands, needs and services of the 600 consortium members with its public area, brokerage area and member area. In addition, the MINAM documents, roadmaps and newsletters are available for free download. MINAM 2.0 has made an important contribution to increasing EU competitiveness in MNMTs. Rapid commercialisation of MNMT-based lab prototypes will have significant socioeconomic implications for the EU and its citizens.
