The object of the contract is the further development and operation of the cluster “Nano- and Microtechnologies, Materials and Photonics” (NMWP). The aim is to strengthen the innovative strength of North Rhine-Westphalia with new and forward-looking approaches, monitoring and strategy, together with business, science, politics and society.

The following overarching objectives will be pursued, among others:

— Strengthening and optimising the networking of companies and institutions along the value chain in the field of key technologies New materials, nanotechnology, microsystems, quantum technology and optical technologies,

— Contributions to the North Rhine-Westphalia Innovation Ecosystem and to knowledge and technology transfer, foresight and strategy to ensure the long-term competitiveness of North Rhine-Westphalia in key technologies.

Subject of the contract:

1) Establishment and operation of a branch office:

In the office, the current tasks of the cluster are processed and all requests from the public are bundled and further processed. The office will continue to provide the necessary work equipment and office space for the work of the cluster team.

2) Renaming the cluster and developing a key visual:

As part of the further development of the cluster work, a renaming with a meaningful name is to be renamed. In addition, an attractive key visual needs to be developed for the cluster.

3) Continuous monitoring and analysis of developments in key technologies:

The role of the AN is a constant monitoring and evaluation of trends and developments in the field of key technologies. Such observation must cover the areas of technology, politics, law, business, media and users, as well as the levels of federal states, the federal government, the European Union and important non-European states. The ANS shall regularly analyse the findings in writing and prepare corresponding postion and analysis reports. In addition, “Facts & Figures” on key figures on key technologies in business and science must be created at the North Rhine-Westphalia site and kept constantly up to date.

4) Ideas and proposals for the direction of the Quantum Technologies.NRW (QT.NMW.NRW):

The Coordination Unit Quantum Technologies.NRW will continue to be a central point of contact for the entire spectrum of this technology branch. The content, strategic and organisational management as well as the operation of the coordinating body is therefore also part of the object of the contract.

5) Information transfer and technology knowledge transfer:

For the benefit of interested companies and multipliers, the AN shall support the knowledge transfer of current knowledge in line with the target group.

6) Strengthening and optimising networking:

All knowledge providers and demand along the value chain at the local, regional and supraregional level are to be efficiently networked, an exchange of experience established and growth generated.

In particular, the AN shall take the following measures:

— Conducting meetings, technical discussions and workshops on the topic with interested industry representatives, similar networks, etc.

— discussions with stakeholders, industry, academia and/or other institutions. The focus of these discussions is always on networking,

— Participation in meetings on the activities of the state government,

— Develop matching offerings that combine supply and demand.

7) Cooperation and exchange:

Contacts with federal activities and authorities will be established and maintained at national level. Exchanges with other federal states or initiatives are also expected, provided that there are links here.

Contacts within the EU and with other non-European countries are to be cultivated and new interesting, effective contacts are to be established. Cooperation and exchange with regional, national and international networks of NMWP technology fields shall be carried out. It is also expected that the AN will inform himself about the activities there and/or participate in exchanges of experience.

8) Events:

8.1: Participation in third party events: Active participation in an average of 10-20 professional events per year to promote the networking of all stakeholders and to inform about the activities of the cluster.

8.2: Organisation of the NRW Nano Conference: The cluster operator is also responsible for the organisation of the NRW Nano Conference, which is to be developed and carried out in close coordination with the client on its own responsibility.

It is expected that the NRW Nano Conference (approximately 600-700 participants) will be developed and conducted in North Rhine-Westphalia during the fixed contract period in 2022 and 2024 (including 2026 if the extension option is used). Dortmund and Münster are alternates to the venue.

9) Press and public relations:

The activities of the above-mentioned fields of work should be incorporated into the press and public relations work of the cluster. The activities of the cluster are to be accompanied by active press work. This includes, for example, press meetings, information to journalists or own publications. The press and public relations work is to be continuously developed. It takes place on behalf of the cluster with reference to the AG.

Public relations also includes the dissemination of the topic “key technologies” on social media. The aim is in particular to continuously inform and communicate about the cluster's topic and the associated activities. In addition, social media will be used to initiate contacts with interested parties.

10) Internet platform:

A central Internet platform must be set up in a timely manner — a first version within the first 8 weeks of the award of the contract — and must continue to be maintained and expanded.

11) Information Flyer:

Other information and support tasks of the AN are the creation of information media. An annual need (creation and publication) of 4-5 information brochures or flyers in digital form is expected.

12) Reports and Controlling:

In addition to the continuous coordination with the AG, a biweekly consultation (approx. 1-2 hours) must be scheduled by the Contractors and representatives of the branch office with the AG in Düsseldorf (premises of the Ministry of Economic Affairs). Once a year, the Contractor is also expected to provide a status report on the activities of the past contract year.