We strengthen your innovation

Networks and consortia

We take on the conception, application and management of consortia, innovation networks and research infrastructures for you. One particularly exciting format is the ZIM innovation networks, which we present in more detail below.

ZIM Innovation Networks – Implementing cooperation projects in the network

ZIM innovation networks bring together SMEs, research and users in thematically focused consortia. We plan, apply for and manage your network – tailored to your technologies and markets. Your benefits at a glance:

  • Joint R&D projects: Non-repayable grants for cooperative development and innovation projects

  • Strong partners: Linking SMEs, research institutions and users – nationally and internationally

  • Market-oriented solutions: Faster transfer of prototypes into marketable products

  • Confidential exchange: moderation, controlling and reporting in a protected consortium framework

Framework conditions of a ZIM innovation network:

  • Number of partners: At least 6 SME network partners, at least 4 German SME network partners for international innovation networks, plus research institutions and large companies as associated partners
  • Network manager: As network manager, Whiterock is responsible for coordination, funding applications, budget and milestone controlling and communication

  • Project implementation: The project is implemented via funded R&D cooperation projects with clearly defined work packages, milestones and deliverables. The possible composition of the cooperation projects is shown in the diagram. SME companies (funded with own contribution), research institutions (funded) and large companies (not funded) work together.

  • Funding rate: The ZIM Innovation Network is funded by the SME network partners. These are funded at 90% in the first year and at 70% and 50% in the two subsequent years. The network partners carry out cooperation projects in the network, which are funded up to 60% or 336,000 euros. See the table for the exact funding conditions.

  • Duration & budget: Typically 3 years with funding, thereafter self-supporting. The total volume per network is based on the necessary funding requirements of the cooperation project and can amount to € 1-5 million.

Example projects for networks and consortia: AutoRobXL (automation of construction machinery), OrganoPor (sustainable insulation materials), NanoWorldMaps (high-throughput nano-imaging).

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Strategy AND implementation

Our services

Together with you, we develop a viable financing strategy and identify the appropriate funding programs – both national and European. We combine various instruments along the Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs), write convincing applications and support you through to successful approval – even in a highly competitive environment.

Our contribution to your success:

  • Develop a financing strategy: Structured planning of project goals, phases and funding requirements

  • Targeted selection of funding programs: National, EU-wide and combinable along the development stages

  • Writing applications with a high chance of winning: Convincing, complete and at eye level with the reviewers

We support you in the market entry and market ramp-up of your innovation with targeted direct marketing – nationally, Europe-wide or globally. Together, we define your priority target markets and identify relevant companies and the right contacts at decision-maker level. We then get in touch with them directly, present your solution and jointly implement defined sales formats – such as pilot projects, milestone-based test phases or uptake agreements.

  • Identify target customers and decision-makers: Precise market and stakeholder analysis in your focus regions

  • Direct approach with impact: personalized communication to attract relevant first-time users

  • Winning initial customers: Pilot projects, test phases and uptake agreements with real sales and growth potential

Network management

Together with you, we identify the key players required for the successful commercialization of your innovation: friendly customers, innovative suppliers, creative research partners. Building on this, we design consortia and innovation networks – e.g. for Horizon Europe, EIC Pathfinder or the German ZIM program, which also involves international partners.

We take over the entire management of the network: from the application to the coordination to the commercial exploitation:

  • Identify relevant partners: Customers, suppliers, research – appropriate to technology and target market

  • Building and managing consortia: Complete management including communication, reporting and moderation

  • Ensure commercialization: preparation of market analyses, exploitation strategies and financial plans

Go innovation.

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