Poly-DREAM

Helping SMEs in the Meuse-Rhine region grow with 3D printing 
SMEs are at the heart of the economy or our Meuse-Rhine region. However, many are falling behind. Compared to other parts of the EU, their productivity is growing more slowly. One area that holds great potential is polymer-based 3D printing, but it is still out of reach for many.  

The Poly-DREAM projects brings together experts, equipment and knowledge across borders to help SMEs make better use of advanced 3D printing. A shared service platform where SMEs can create, share and grow will be created by partners from the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.  

How polymer 3D printing can help our SMEs 
Polymer 3D printing can help innovation in several ways, especially for small businesses that need flexible and affordable ways to develop new products. Take, for example, a small biotech company in Liège. They are developing a portable device to quickly test water quality on the spot. Normally, creating the casing and internal parts would be expensive and slow, especially when the design needs frequent updates. Through Poly-DREAM, the SME can choose a strong, safe and moisture resistant polymer. They quickly print a prototype, make adjustments, and print again. In just a few weeks, they have a working model that would otherwise take months to develop.  

What Poly-DREAM offers  

Thanks to Poly-DREAM, SMEs will be able to:   

• Try out the latest 3D printing methods using high-tech polymers.   
• Work with researchers to find the best materials and techniques.  
• Develop real-life prototypes instead of just ideas.  
• Create solid business plans to bring those prototypes to the market.  

Innovation moves fast in the health and biotech sector, where high-quality products are essential. Poly-DREAM especially focusses on this sector by giving them tools and support their needs to compete, grow and succeed.