Photonics firms create PPP

Companies working in Europe’s photonics sector have formed a public private partnership (PPP) in preparation for Horizon 2020.

The announcement was made in Brussels following the meeting of members of the ‘Photonics21’ industry association. The new body, the ‘Photonics PPP Association’, will become a legal entity that will be able to sign contracts with the European Commission.

Making the announcement, Photonics21 president, Michael Mertin, said: “Boosting economic growth and the creation of jobs in Europe through strengthening its innovation capacity will be the major challenges of Horizon 2020. Through the establishment of a PPP, the photonics community fully commits to strive for photonics innovation in Europe and to reinforce the co-operation between public and private sectors. Our innovation capacity will substantially contribute to Europe’s economy and thus benefit European citizens.”

At the AGM, the group also presented an industry roadmap to European Commissioner Neelie Kroes outlining priorities for photonics research and innovation under Horizon 2020. The photonics industry will receive an estimate €1.5bn of funding under Horizon 2020.

Photonics21 was set up in December 2005 as an industry-driven platform and speaks on behalf of 2,000 industrial representatives.