As described in the ATI report on 3D printing of hybrid components, there is big opportunity for the deployment and commercialisation of 3D printed products. The value chain of metal 3D printing hybrid components entails many SMEs that are interested in developing 3D printing-based applications.
In that respect a recent initiative is the ‘3DP Pan EU’ project https://3dppan.eu/, co-funded by the European Parliament and managed by the European Commission. This project promotes the awareness, knowledge and uptake of 3D printing technologies in Europe by promoting SMEs’ access to 3DP services related to testing, validation and certification. This European project is implemented by a consortium consisting of Brainport Development, IDEA Consult, ART-ER, CIVITTA and Asterion Europe.
An essential part of the 3DP Pan EU project is a mapping that matches demand and supply of demonstration services in the area of 3D printing. The platform facilitates organisations to get in contact with suppliers of 3D printing services:
“Whether you already know about 3D printing and have a vision on what you would like to print through 3D printing, or whether the technology is new to you, the platform will be able to guide you to the right partners across Europe.”
With different matching tools that are available on the 3DP PAN EU project website, SMEs can find partners in the EU for 3D printing, testing and demonstration needs and search for an EU Facility Centre that offers a matching solution.
The 3DP PAN EU project has recently launched a dedicated Call for SMEs to submit proposals for cross-border 3D printing industrial demonstration projects. Proposals from SMEs, which will be evaluated on the basis of published criteria and should have a duration of 6 to 9 months. Successful proposals will receive a maximum financial contribution of € 40.000. The call is open now and will close August 31st, 2020. The call text can be found at https://3dppan.eu/call-smes.
If you are an SME in the EU and interested in submitting a proposal for the call for a 3D printing demonstration project, you are welcome to join one of the upcoming information webinars which will provide key details about how to submit a proposal. The webinars will be particularly important for any SMEs considering submitting a proposal for the call.
The dates and times for the webinars providing information on the SME call for proposals are:
- Friday, July 31st, 2020: 10:00 – 10:45 CEST
- Monday, August 10th, 2020: 11:15 – 12:00 CEST
To participate in one of these sessions you invited to register by filling in this form: https://forms.gle/WNoxSp48nASy6ptL7.
For more information on the SME Call for proposals for 3D printing demonstration projects, visit: 3dppan.eu/call-smes