Bringing innovations closer to the market

Inspiring innovations

We have already seen many great innovations pass in the Deltares SME Challenge in recent years, all tested and further developed in our research facilities.

Think, for example, of an artificial reef that not only protects the coast, but also converts the power of waves into energy. Or the innovative buoy that generates energy from the endless movement of the sea. We have even tested a 3D-printed coral reef, revitalising ecosystems. Not to mention the mobile inflatable barrier that can stop floods in no time, or the smart device that adds oxygen to ditches and lakes, allowing aquatic life to flourish again. And then there is the impressive fungus-based biofilter that converts pollutants into fertile biomass.

Impactful Innovations

A number of these innovative solutions have now been developed to such a level that they are now being deployed and have real impact. This is exactly what the Deltares SME Challenge stands for: involving and supporting startups and SMEs in applying new knowledge and technologies, so that their innovations also contribute to keeping life safe, sustainable and habitable in our deltas, coastal and river areas.

We were able to take the next step in the design process with our Wave Energy Converter

Luc Hogervorst, founder Weco and former SME Challenge participant

Join in!

Are you the next to test your innovation at Deltares? Not convinced yet? Take a look behind the scenes at one of last year's successful participants: Omar Saleh of Wavesave. He tested his innovative product: the SALMDAM, a mobile flood barrier, in our Deltares Delta flume. Want to know how testing in the Deltares Delta Flume brought their product closer to the market? Watch the video below and then sign up for the SME Challenge autumn 2024!