UK Photonics Cluster launches new collaborative program for R&D companies

The UK Photonics Cluster has launched a unique initiative — the Collaborative Partner Program (CPP) — to support the development and success of research and development companies.

The Cluster — which, since its own launch in 2000, has developed links to more than 5000 businesses, universities, and RTOs (Research Technology Organizations) — launched the CPP at the euroLED exhibition held this week in Coventry, UK.

The CPP has three main themes: to put R&D companies in touch with expert routes to financial support; to use its network to link members with the correct support skills they need; and to make technical facilities available, such as its own state-of-the-art laboratories at the Aston Science Park in Birmingham.

The scheme is backed by major organizations including PERA, QinetiQ, and NPL (National Physical Laboratory).

"Our R&D Collaborative Partner Program is a landmark development for the UK's hard-pressed yet highly ingenious and innovative photonics R&D community," said Alex Clarke of the Photonics Cluster. "It will enable growth and will see members utilize the new resources to bring their products to market quickly and efficiently, and greatly enhance bottom line opportunities in the process."

News of the new program came as the Photonics Cluster had its largest ever presence at euroLED. In addition to its own members' pavilion, Cluster also had other members present throughout the show, now in its fifth year with exhibitors from all over the world, including Australia, the US, and China.

Companies in the pavilion and at the show itself included Bentham Instruments, a manufacturer of systems for applications involving the study and measurement of light; Marl, a pioneer in LED technology; and Ocean Optics, a global photonics firm and optical sensor specialist.