Unlocking Innovation and Sustainability-How PhotonQBoost Supports SMEs

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Photonics and quantum technologies hold the key to next-generation computing, communication, and sensing. However, despite rapid research advances, the field faces significant obstacles. Challenges such as integration, manufacturability, and system stability continue to limit the transition from laboratory prototypes to industrial-scale solutions. Addressing these hurdles requires not only technological innovation but also coordinated support across the entire value chain.


PhotonQBoost, an EU-funded Horizon-Europe project, aims to build a sustainable and interconnected European innovation ecosystem where photonics and quantum technologies are fully integrated into industrial value chains, driving green transition, technological sovereignty, and economic growth, through a diverse range of activities, such as innovation, technological and sustainability advisory services, and funding and matchmaking opportunities. PhotonQBoost is a strong alliance of seven experienced European Photonics and Quantum clusters, four specialised consultancies and two Research and Technology Organisations, spread across nine EU Member States, that gathers a broad array of competencies.

What Services Does PhotonQBoost Provide?

PhotonQBoost offers a wide range of services across three main pillars: Innovation Support, Technology Support, and Sustainability Transition Support.

  1. Innovation Support: SMEs can access tailored advisory services to strengthen their business strategies and improve competitiveness. This includes support for refining business models, navigating intellectual property (IP) management, and training in sustainability management. Training sessions on investment readiness and guidance in applying for EU and national funding are also part of the package.

  2. Technology Support: PhotonQBoost helps companies accelerate their technological development. Services include proof-of-concept consultation, targeted skill development/technology training, and technology transfer support. In addition, the project facilitates matchmaking with partners across Europe to spark collaborations in research, development, and commercialization.

  3. Sustainability Transition Support: Recognizing the urgency of climate goals and new EU regulations, PhotonQBoost guides SMEs through their sustainability journey. The project offers consulting on environmental compliance, sustainability strategies, and resource optimization. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) services help companies understand their environmental impact, while training ensures sustainability becomes embedded in daily operations.

 

On top of these advisory services, PhotonQBoost launches open calls to which EU SMEs can apply for funding. The funding opportunities cover the development of solutions and pilots,  access to trainings and the possibility to participate in matching missions which enable SMEs to connect with international partners and explore business opportunities in different European markets. 

 

EurA’s Role in PhotonQBoost

EurA reaffirms its position as a leading innovation consulting company by being the coordinator of PhotonQBoost. EurA ensures smooth management of the project and plays an active role in service delivery through the following key activities:

Coordination of PhotonQBoost:

leading the overall management and coordination of the consortium, ensuring that project milestones, budgets, and deliverables are met efficiently and in compliance with EU guidelines.

Open Calls for Funding:

managing and support the open call process, helping SMEs apply for funding opportunities under PhotonQBoost and facilitating the evaluation and implementation of selected projects.

Advisory Services:

providing expert guidance on business model development, funding acquisition, and investment readiness. Their advisory support helps SMEs strengthen their innovation potential and competitiveness.

Networking and Matchmaking:

leveraging its extensive European network, EurA connects SMEs with research and business partners, fostering collaborations, technology exchange, and market expansion across Europe.

PhotonQBoost is more than a funding program; it’s a comprehensive support ecosystem that empowers SMEs to innovate, grow, and thrive sustainably in the competitive world of photonics and quantum technologies. With EurA steering the project and providing key advisory services alongside our partners, European SMEs can access the tools and networks they need to lead the way towards a more resilient, innovative, and sustainable future.

Interested in benefiting from the PhotonQBoost services?

Express your interest here and let’s shape the future of photonics and quantum together more sustainably!
Shashank Goyal

Your contact person
Shashank Goyal

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I am working as an LCA consultant at EurA AG. As an environmental professional, I have an experience of more than 4 years in Life Cycle Assessment. Before joining EurA AG, I worked as a research associate at the German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.). I acquired my Master of Science from the Brandenburg University of Technology, Germany in Environmental and Resource Management, spent a semester at the University of Texas, Arlington, USA, and a Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Engineering from India.
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