With the “InGo” project, cc-NanoBioNet e.V. is developing a sustainable innovation ecosystem in the Saarland region. The project focuses on the key technologies of pharmaceuticals and Artificial Intelligence (AI), with the aim of strengthening collaboration between research and industry, unlocking new value creation potential, and actively shaping structural transformation.

“InGo” identifies relevant stakeholders from academia and industry, analyzes synergies, and establishes long-term collaborations. In this context, NanoBioNet acts as the central network manager, enhancing visibility, facilitating knowledge transfer, and actively supporting the acquisition of funding opportunities.

As an established player within Saarland’s innovation landscape, NanoBioNet contributes its extensive experience from initiatives such as the Health.AI alliance within the WIR! programme and several ZIM innovation networks, helping to build a strong and future-ready Saarland.

NanoBioNet aims to closely connect ophthalmologists in private practice throughout the region with the KI-Katarakt project and its outcomes, enabling them to implement improved cataract surgery procedures in outpatient settings in the future. This approach is intended to ensure the transferability of project results and maximize their benefits for rural areas.

At the same time, NanoBioNet seeks to benefit from the extensive experience of practicing ophthalmologists by collecting, structuring, and utilizing their expertise to develop a reference prognosis against which the AI system can be evaluated. Ideally, the analysis of clinical experience within the WIR! region will help establish early hypotheses regarding which data are most suitable for developing effective complication management strategies within the KI-Katarakt project.

In addition, the project aims to assess the needs of practicing ophthalmologists with regard to the research topic, particularly identifying which data from a future “Eye Data Space” would be most valuable for their daily practice. This may also generate ideas for new business models and innovation opportunities.

By actively involving practicing physicians, the project introduces innovation-inexperienced stakeholders to cutting-edge scientific research, helping to reduce potential barriers to innovation. Furthermore, these activities are intended to increase the acceptance and adoption of AI-based support tools among healthcare professionals.

NanoBioNet is dedicated to promoting key technologies with high innovation potential in order to drive structural transformation within the region. The objective is to strengthen regional companies, enhance their future competitiveness, and establish sustainable links between industry and Saarland’s research landscape. In addition, NanoBioNet supports the acquisition of federal research funding to enable innovative technology projects in Saarland.

Through this project, NanoBioNet also aims to contribute to the development of Saarland’s new innovation strategy. To this end, the network will coordinate the key area of “Life Science & Material Science”, structure and connect relevant stakeholders, facilitate knowledge transfer, and identify emerging trends and opportunities for the Saarland region.

The WIR! Alliance Health.AI aims to create new momentum in three structurally challenged regions of Saarland: the districts of Saarlouis and Neunkirchen, as well as the Regional Association of Saarbrücken. Its goal is to strengthen regional economic performance while enhancing quality of life.

Health.AI focuses on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across all areas of healthcare and seeks to unlock the potential of AI through a broad, multidisciplinary network of partners. The initiative brings together stakeholders from research, industry, politics, and civil society to jointly shape innovation processes and develop sustainable solutions for the healthcare sector.

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