A successful cluster event in Antwerp

On Wednesday 15 February, Flanders Make 2023's first major event took place. The numerous cluster-member companies present quickly created a convivial atmosphere. In addition, more than 70% of attendees left their cars at home because of the good location close to Antwerp-Central railway station. Combined with the exciting programme, we thus had the right ingredients for a successful day.

New research tracks

We started in three sessions in which cluster managers Wouter, Paola and Andrei gave an introduction to cluster operation. Portfolio managers Patrick, Alexandru and Natalia then took the floor and explained the 10 new research tracks and their role within the cluster operation. This gave those present a clear picture of the new structure and what it means for them. In working sessions, the industrial challenges for each of the research tracks were discussed.

The sandwich lunch and accompanying networking moment was followed by COO Marc. He gave a presentation around the different (new) project forms. Marc explained the terms and cooperation models such as SBO, IRVA and INFRA in great detail and indicated the advantages for the participating companies.

39 project ideas in 6 parallel sessions

Then our researchers took the floor. In six different rooms, visitors could listen to no fewer than 39 pitches around brand-new project ideas and discover their potential role in these projects. Of course, you could combine the pitches to your heart's content to put together the perfect individual programme.

ALSO ONLINE SESSIONs

We will also be offering these pitches online. From 2 to 9 March, we will organise short, online sessions in which we will pitch these 39 ideas again. You can also ask questions and make comments there. Ideal for companies that did not attend but still want to be in the first innovation row.

Want to become a member as well?

Would you also like to join the Flanders Make clusters and help steer our research for the long term?

Kristof Vrancken, Communication Officer

Kristof Vrancken is Digital Communication Officer at Flanders Make since 2019. As Digital Marketeer with experience in both B2B and B2C environments he writes with a fresh view on technological innovation, about what literally and figuratively moves within our research centre.

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