SME challenge: free access to the experimental research facilities - autumn edition 2024

Sign up for the mkb challenge

We warmly welcome innovative SMEs to our experimental test facilities, to take the latest technologies and innovations a step further together with our experts. This way, also together with SMEs, we come closer to solutions for societal challenges.

Registration for autumn 2024 is open!

You can register until 31 December 2024. Selected participants will be invited in early 2025 to present their innovations. After these presentations, it will be decided which initiatives will receive free access to Deltares' facilities.

Register directly for the 2024 SME Challenge

How does it work?

How does participation in the SME challenge at Deltares work? We follow a 4-step approach:

Step 1: Assessment

Want to know if you meet the requirements as an SME or startup? Read the 'SME brochure', where you will find what we can offer and the conditions your company and innovation must meet.

SME brochure

Step 2: Registration

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 Sytse Riedstra: sytse.riedstra@deltares.nl.

Registration form

Step 3: Evaluation

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.

Step 4: Start of the Challenge

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.

Look behind the scenes

In the video below, we take a look behind the scenes at one of the successful participants of last year's Deltares SME Challenge. Meet Omar Saleh, from Wavesave, who last year were able to test their innovative product, the SALMDAM, in the famous Deltares Delta flume. This unique facility gave them the opportunity to further develop and refine their SALMDAM, a mobile flood barrier. Wondering how this helped them get one step closer to the market?

Take a quick look and then sign up for the SME Challenge autumn 2024!