Publication of Valorization perspective: Einstein Telescope as a catalyst for deep tech and broad prosperity
On November 12, the Einstein Telescope Valorization perspective is published. The report shows how investments in the Einstein Telescope (ET) are directly linked to new economic and societal value. It maps out which technologies are being developed around ET, which companies and knowledge institutes are involved, and how this strengthens innovation capacity in the Euregio Meuse–Rhine, in the Netherlands and in Europe.
A scientific leap with direct impact
ET will be the most sensitive gravitational-wave detector in Europe. To make that possible, Dutch and international partners are pushing the boundaries in areas such as cryogenics, photonics, quantum technology, ultra-precision mechanics and advanced sensing. The Valorization perspective describes how these ‘Big science’ investments translate into concrete applications, new companies and high-tech jobs in precisely those deep-tech domains in which the Netherlands and the Euregio excel.
An ecosystem connecting science and industry
Since 2023, six consortia with 26 partners – ranging from knowledge institutes and high-tech SMEs to large industry – have been working on ET-related innovation projects. Together they are developing key enabling technologies that are not only relevant for ET, but also for sectors such as semicon, quantum, medtech, defence and space. The Valorization perspective shows how this strengthens the ecosystem around ET and reinforces the international position of Dutch deep tech.
Through the Einstein Telescope and the collaborating ecosystem, we are building more than groundbreaking technology: we are creating a strategic foundation for the Netherlands within Europe and the world, as confirmed by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. This project demonstrates how collaboration strengthens our position in deep tech, accelerates innovation, and increases the economic resilience of the Netherlands.
Economic and societal value
The technologies being developed are aligned with growth markets in which the Netherlands is already strong: semiconductors, quantum, medical technology, high-tech systems & materials, and space & astronomy. Impact arises on three levels:
- Economic: accelerating innovation, strengthening the Dutch deep-tech value chain and creating new high-quality jobs.
- Societal: breakthroughs in, among other things, secure communication, climate monitoring and improved medical diagnostics.
- Strategic: contributing to European technological autonomy.
A responsible long-term investment
ET has been on the ESFRI roadmap since 2021. The Netherlands has invested € 42 million from the National Growth Fund in the Einstein Telescope – in such a way that the knowledge, skills and facilities that are being developed will continue to create lasting value for the earning capacity of the region and the country, regardless of where ET is ultimately built.
With ET, science, industry and government demonstrate what becomes possible when you deliberately link fundamental research to innovation and entrepreneurship. The Valorization Perspective makes that impact visible and shows why sustained, predictable investment in deep tech is the key to sustainable growth – today and in the future.
Request the Valorization perspective now via the application form below and discover in more detail which projects, companies and technologies are involved.
Our valorization team is happy to engage with governments, companies and knowledge institutes to explore how the impact can be further increased. For more information, please contact our valorization team via einsteintelescope@liof.nl
Photo: LIOF presents the Einstein Telescope Valorization Perspective to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Advisory Council.
From left to right: Jorg van der Meij, Programme Manager Einstein Telescope Valorisation LIOF, Elmar van Holten, Senior Policy Officer Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, Robbert Koldenhof, Managing Director LIOF, Sandor Gaastra, Secretary General, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Jochem Klaassen, CEO Lionite, and Bart van Mierlo, founder of The Nest Group and member of the Einstein Telescope Valorisation Advisory Board.