Schleswig-Holstein

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Through participation in the excellence strategy of the federal and state governments and in the coordinated funding programs of Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation), Schleswig-Holstein's universities and non-university research institutions are represented in numerous networks.

In addition, the formation of networks that serve the exchange of knowledge and the initiation of cooperation between science and industry is supported by the state. The Maritime Cluster Northern Germany (MCN) with more than 350 members is the industry network of the maritime economy in Northern Germany. It plays an important role at the interface between industry, science and the public sector. Its central tasks are to initiate cooperation and innovation projects across state borders, to strengthen the international competitiveness of northern German players and to develop regional competencies.

For the life sciences sector, Life Science Nord Management GmbH acts as cluster manager for Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein. In addition to classic cluster services for companies and research institutions, Life Science Nord Management GmbH markets the location in the national and international environment. It also supports the acquisition of third-party funding, establishes cross-border and country-specific innovation networks and initiates innovative life sciences projects. The Digital Economy Schleswig-Holstein (DiWiSH) cluster management is active for the IT, media and design sector in the state. As cross-sectional technologies, these stimulate innovations and competitiveness in other sectors. Currently, around 170 companies are involved in cluster activities and specialist groups focusing on artificial intelligence, software development and the integration of design competencies.

The food industry has traditionally been one of the most important manufacturing sectors in Schleswig-Holstein. The foodRegio industry network aims to sustainably strengthen the food industry in Schleswig-Holstein. To this end, almost 70 companies are being supported and new members purposefully acquired. Scientific institutions contribute application-oriented expertise.

Renewable energies are an important economic factor in the energy-producing state of Schleswig-Holstein. In cooperation with Kompetenzzentrum Erneuerbare Energien und Klimaschutz (Competence Center Renewable Energies and Climate Protection), the EE.SH cluster management identifies competencies as well as cooperation opportunities in the area of universities and research institutions. This also gives small companies the chance to implement innovations.

(last update: March 2022)