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November 2024

Becoming a DUT Project Partner: What’s in It for Businesses?

DUT is at the Smart City Expo World Congress to showcase how the partnership is shaping the future of sustainable and socially inclusive cities through funding research and innovation projects. As businesses there seek the latest trends in urban innovation, DUT shares insights on what businesses can get from participating in DUT projects. 

Businesses can contribute to diving urban transitions, leveraging project results in different ways. At least 92 SMEs and 24 large enterprises have become part of DUT-funded projects since the first DUT Call, launched in 2022. However, more organisations could collaborate with partners from academia and municipal authorities, among others.    

As the Smart City Expo World Congress unfolds, we explored why companies joined and what they can get by participating in DUT-funded projects. 

Why do businesses participate in DUT-funded projects?   

Businesses seek collaboration opportunities, staying updated on current trends and expanding their networks beyond national borders. Many highlight the value of transnational cooperation and the willingness to contribute to sustainable solutions. 

 

“One key advantage of being involved in international research projects, such as those in DUT, is gaining access to a wider business network and establishing strong, long-lasting partnerships that often lead to new opportunities even after the project ends.” 

–  Lorenza Pistore, R2M Solution SRL (Making PEDs project partner) 

 

What characterises businesses joining DUT projects?  

DUT project partners are committed to sustainability and want to leverage research findings to improve products, designs, and business practices. One strong reason for businesses to join these projects is their need to adapt to various regulatory, economic, and market environments to enhance competitiveness.  

 

“DUT offers a platform that aligns with our mission to create cleaner, smarter, and more efficient urban environments. Through collaboration with industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers across Europe, PRIO can stay at the forefront of the latest technologies and sustainable practices.”  

–  Christina Correia, PRIO E – Mobility Solutions (V2G-QUESTS project partner) 

 

In addition, small, medium and large enterprises perceive being part of a DUT project as an opportunity to get insights from experts across various fields and experiences in different regulatory, historical and cultural contexts.