SME Challenge case studies
View examples from previous participants and see how they have advanced their innovative design concepts.
Visit the examples
After three successful editions, Deltares has opened the doors of its experimental facilities again in 2023 to support innovative initiatives from Dutch start-ups and SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), enhancing interaction with these businesses. With the SME challenge, Deltares is offering 80 hours of free access to the Hydro and Geo facilities and laboratories to test design concepts of innovations.
Register directly for the 2023 SME Challenge
We warmly welcome innovative SMEs to our experimental testing facilities, to collaborate with our experts in advancing the latest techniques and innovations. This way, we, along with SMEs, move closer to solutions for societal challenges.
How does participation in the SME challenge at Deltares work? We follow a 4-step approach:
An SME or startup should read the 'SME challenge brochure,' where you can find what we can offer and the prerequisites your company and innovation need to meet in order to participate.
As an SME or startup, you register for the ongoing SME challenge using the registration form. You fill it out with information about your company and innovation, and then send it to Madelief Doeleman.
All registrations will be assessed. Relevant registrations will be invited to present their innovation at Deltares. Deltares forms a jury, and depending on the question, the right experts will be asked to join. The jury evaluates the initiatives based on factors such as impact, feasibility, and relevance. Deltares also assesses whether the innovation fits within Deltares' expertise areas and if there is sufficient capacity available to start. The contribution of the innovation to societal goals (e.g., sustainability) also plays a role in the assessment.
Once it has been decided which initiatives will receive free access to our facilities, the SME (or startup) will be assigned a dedicated contact person within Deltares (the coach), and the guidance for the SME challenge begins.
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Facility | Dates |
---|---|
Field facilities | Q1: Apply between 1 January and 31 March 2023 (closed) |
Geo facilities | Q2: Apply between 1 April and 31 May 2023 (closed) |
Laboratories | Q3: Apply between 1 July and 30 September 2023 (closed) |
Hydro facilities | Q4: Apply between 1 November and 31 December 2023 |