ET R&D scheme Nationaal Groei Fonds

To stimulate innovation and accelerated development of new technologies for the Einstein Telescope (ET), an R&D scheme for high-tech companies was launched in 2022. €12.085 million was available for this purpose.The R&D scheme is part of the Einstein Telescope valorization program, and LIOF implemented the scheme under a mandate from the Ministry of OCW.

By now, all consortia have been formed and the scheme has been closed. Together with the consortia, the valorization program is working on the development of these technologies, market validation and preparation of the bid book.

By collaborating with various parties, we hope to promote cooperation between different players in the innovation ecosystem and accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies. This includes looking at applications and uses in other areas and sectors. The valorization program is part of the National Growth Fund project Einstein Telescope with which is invested in the preparation of a joint candidacy together with Belgium and Germany.

Implementation ET valorization program

The regional development company for Limburg LIOF is leading the national effort, also on behalf of the Ministries of Economic Affairs and OCW and Nikhef. With three service points at the regional development companies BOM (Brabant), InnovationQuarter (South Holland) and Oost NL (East Netherlands), connection is sought nationwide with high-tech ecosystems around the technical universities and working together with industry and knowledge institutions within the consortia formed. The goal of the program is to strengthen the candidacy for the arrival of the Einstein Telescope.

About the National Growth Fund

With the National Growth Fund, the government is investing €20 billion between 2021 and 2025 in projects that will ensure long-term economic growth. These are targeted investments in two areas where there are the most opportunities for structural and sustainable economic growth. These are Knowledge Development and Research, Development and Innovation. The underlying idea is that economic growth also provides more income. This allows for continued investment in health care, education and the necessary measures to combat climate change.

The National Growth Fund is also investing in the preparation of a joint candidacy for the Einstein Telescope together with Belgium and Germany. The Ministry of Education, Culture and Science (OCW) is responsible for the project. To realize the project, the project cooperates with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate (EZK), Nikhef, Province of Limburg and development company LIOF.