GRD Workshop at ULB: fostering research collaboration with industry

The GRD Network is a member-only community bringing together managers of leading public and private organisations engaged in R&D activities in Belgium and Luxembourg. The network aims to strengthen cooperation between companies, universities and research centres, and ultimately enhance the effectiveness of public and private R&D initiatives in Belgium and Luxembourg.

This event was an opportunity for ULB-KTO to present how companies and public stakeholders can collaborate and innovate with ULB through partnerships with researchers. Fabien Dalmas, Head of Industry Unit at ULB-KTO, highlighted several ways to engage with the university ecosystem: collaborative research projects, access to cutting-edge equipment and technological expertise (technology platforms and technology offers), and the socio-economic valorisation of research results, including the creation of spin-off companies.

During the workshop, participants also discovered FARI and sustAIn.brussels. On the one hand, FARI co-director Carl Mörch and Academic Director Prof. Grégory Lewkowicz emphasised the mission of the Institute to advance research and build bridges between academia, public administrations, industry and citizens. FARI promotes sustainable AI, data and robotics, focusing on urban and public priority domains such as health, mobility, sustainable robotics, climate and energy, and participatory and inclusive societies. FARI is a ULB-VUB initiative supported by the European Commission and the Brussels Region.

On the other hand, Yavuz Sarikaya, project manager and advisor at sustAIn.brussels, showcased the objectives and initiatives of this European digital innovation hub, set up with the support of the European Commission, Innoviris and hub.brussels. It serves as the single point of access for Brussels companies navigating the digital and sustainable innovation landscape, with a particular focus on AI and emerging technologies.

The event ended with guided visits to some of FARI’s cutting-edge facilities, including the AI Test & Experience Center and the Computer Augmented Virtual Environment (CAVE), demonstrating how artificial intelligence and advanced digital tools can support companies in their innovation journey.

Many thanks to all participants for the insightful exchanges throughout the workshop and visit. We look forward to continuing the discussion and exploring future collaborations together.