Innovation stakeholders in North Rhine-Westphalia benefit from R&D funding projects across a wide range of technological fields and sectors, whether through EU programs, federal funding programs, or initiatives from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia itself. However, after the completion of projects or the end of funding, there is often a lack of financial resources or funding for necessary follow-up investments or other needs, such as contacts and points of contact, to effectively utilize the results and ensure a marketable solution.
To realize this untapped potential and close the so-called "Valley of Death," the NRW.innovativ Competence Center has launched an initiative for excellence projects . This initiative seeks projects with long-term impact that, through their high potential for innovation, can make a significant contribution to the transformation of the North Rhine-Westphalia economic region. In cooperation with various partners, needs-based support options are offered to assist these projects in gaining traction. This includes matchmaking with potential funding bodies and financing partners, as well as facilitating relevant contacts.
