On 7 April 2026, the INPROCAP MIDDLE regional event took place at ASTRON in the Netherlands, bringing together around 30 participants from across the Central European ecosystem. The event gathered companies, Big Science Organisations (BSOs), and Industrial Liaison Officers (ILOs) to explore collaboration opportunities and address real technological challenges in Big Science.
Bridging Industry and Big Science Needs
The event provided a dynamic platform for companies to engage directly with representatives of leading research infrastructures and gain insight into the evolving needs of Big Science. Participants had the opportunity to better understand how to position themselves within this highly specialised market and how innovation procurement can support collaboration.
A key focus of the meeting was the presentation of concrete technological challenges from Big Science Organisations, creating a direct link between demand and potential solutions from industry.
From Challenges to Collaboration Opportunities
Four challenges were presented during the event:
- 1 challenge from CERN
- 1 challenge from European XFEL
- 2 challenges from ESO
These challenges addressed advanced technological areas, including:
- ultra-low flow atomic beam delivery in cryogenic environments
- sustainable processing of X-ray coatings
- cost-efficient production of high-performance reflector antennas
- high-speed digitisation of analogue signals for future observatories
Each challenge was followed by interactive discussions with companies and ILOs, enabling participants to explore potential solution pathways, ask technical questions, and identify areas for collaboration.
Interactive Format Driving Engagement
Beyond the challenge sessions, the programme included company pitches, networking opportunities, and informal exchanges, concluding with networking drinks and an optional guided tour of ASTRON.
This interactive format supported open dialogue and direct engagement between industry and Big Science stakeholders, fostering new connections and strengthening collaboration within the ecosystem.
Early Results and Follow-up
The event has already triggered initial follow-up interactions, including contact established between ESO and the company Demcon to explore potential collaboration.
As collaboration development typically evolves over time, further follow-up discussions are expected in the coming weeks. The INPROCAP consortium will continue to engage with participants to monitor emerging partnerships and support the development of concrete cooperation activities.
Supporting Innovation Procurement in Big Science
The MIDDLE regional event demonstrated the strong interest of companies in engaging with Big Science challenges and confirmed the importance of innovation procurement as a tool to connect demand with innovative solutions.
By facilitating direct interaction between industry, BSOs, and ILOs, INPROCAP continues to strengthen collaboration across the Big Science ecosystem and support the development of future innovation partnerships.
