SME challenge: free access to the experimental research facilities

The SME Challenge

We welcome innovative design concepts from SMEs and start-ups in our experimental testing facilities, to take the latest techniques and innovations a step further together with our experts. Various design concepts can participate in the Deltares SME Challenge, from innovations in the field of water to solutions for the subsurface.

Test your ideas at different scales in the Geotechnical Laboratory or Geo Model Laboratory. Our state-of-the-art Geocentrifuge makes it possible to simulate years of ground processes in a matter of hours. Moreover, we have opened our new Deltares Delta Lab, a laboratory where chemical, biological and physical research come together. This lab tackles complex societal issues in soil and (ground)water with an integrated approach. And of course you can also test your innovations in our Wave and Flow facilities or in the Geofacilities: such as the Water and Soil Flume, which is used for research for the maritime, energy, dredging and mining industries. Maybe your innovative design will be the next project!

Registration 2025

The selected participants of the Autumn 2024 SME Challenge have now been confirmed, and the jury has approved four applications. These initiatives will soon gain access to our Hydro facilities, Geo facilities, or the Delta Lab (the chemical, biological, and physical laboratory).

There will also be an SME Challenge in 2025. As soon as registration opens, we will announce it on this webpage and via our social media channels!

Watch the video below to discover the wide range of innovative facilities available at Deltares.

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 of Eline Leentvaar.

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!

We are immensely proud of the collaboration with previous participants! Want to know which start-ups and SMEs have previously participated in the SME Challenge and had the opportunity to test their design concept at Deltares?

Innovation in action