Innovative FabLab project receives 990,000 euros for the greater region!

Innovative FabLab project receives 990,000 euros for the greater region!

The Interreg project “FabLabs4Innovation” today received significant funding of 990,000 euros to strengthen innovative strength in the greater region. Four countries are involved in this multifaceted project, which starts on March 10, 2025: Germany, France, Belgium and Luxembourg. The focus of the project is on the development of a uniform training system for the use of FabLabs, which, as creative workshops, are an integral part of modern innovation strategies. The initiative is led by Triathlon, the ecosystem for entrepreneurship, innovation and transfer at Saarland University.

What is particularly noteworthy is that a modern FabLab is to be set up at Saarland University in November 2024. Equipped with modern technologies such as 3D printers and CNC machines, this FabLab will not only serve the practical application of prototypes, but also play a central role in training. A digital training system and a FabLab driving license are being developed to ensure safe access to the production resources.

Collaboration and support for founders

In collaboration with several partners, including the Université de Lorraine (France), the Université de Liège (Belgium) and the Innovation Center Technoport (Luxembourg), the project aims to support start-ups and new jobs in the region. Technoport will also develop an overview of the start-up support offers in the greater region. The financing consists of 990,000 euros from the EU (ERDF), 163,000 euros from Saarland and 113,000 euros from the Wallonia region. The entire project duration is three years.

Triathlon has supported over 550 business start-ups over the last three decades, creating around 4,000 jobs. Around 120 start-up projects are initiated every year, with around 30 of them actually resulting in start-ups. These strong results demonstrate how important such initiatives are to the region's economic development.

FabLabs as global innovation drivers

The history of FabLabs goes back to a concept that was designed during a course at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the Center for Bits and Atoms in 2001. FabLabs, or Fabrication Laboratories, are spaces equipped with a variety of machines and tools that provide access to modern manufacturing technologies. What they have in common is the goal of creating a community-oriented environment in which creative work, learning and prototyping can take place.

Over 2,000 FabLabs are active worldwide in more than 120 countries, offering access to advanced technologies such as 3D printers, laser cutters and CNC machines. The equipment includes, among other things:

• Numerisch gesteuerte Schneidemaschinen
• Laserschneider für 2D- und 3D-Strukturen
• Mikrocontroller-Ausrüstung
• NC-Bearbeitung für Leiterplatten
• 3D-Drucker
• Holzfräsen

These facilities are not only accessible to individuals, but are also designed as places of social exchange. FabLabs encourage creativity and entrepreneurship and provide a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to develop innovative ideas. This makes them much more than just workshops; they are crucial players in the global innovation landscape. More information on this topic is available Interreg Europe and the importance of the Fab Lab network is also reflected in one another source explained.