Public Funding and Innovation
Funded Projects
Freudenberg makes use of public funding in the form of non-repayable grants for innovation projects. Innovation projects realized by companies belonging to the Freudenberg Business Groups include
- R&D projects supported by Germany’s Federal Ministries and the European Union, and
- Investment projects concerning the building, modernization or expansion of production facilities jointly supported by the Federal and state governments, co-financed by the European Union.
The corporate function “Public Funding and Innovation ” is in charge for such funding projects and support the Business Groups in the procurement of public funds on a national and international level. The business units benefit from this know-how, as the application procedures and the related rules are becoming increasingly complex.
The brochures “Bestehen im Förderdschungel” (FNT-Info issue 2/2011) and “Neues aus dem Förderdschungel” (FNT-Info issue 2/2007) present an overview of R&D project funding. The brochures are only available in German.
Development and Cultivation of Internal and External Networks
To promote internal, cross-Group communication, the “Public Funding and Innovation” department organizes and presents internal innovation networks such as the "Global Innovation Forum" (GIF) and "R&D Talk".
The GIF is a series of events for personnel of Freudenberg Business Groups and partner companies around the world to present innovation projects with a view to creating synergy effects. The Global Innovation Forum is targeted to senior R&D managers and other personnel who could contribute to innovation (including people working outside R&D).
The R&D talk is an off-the-job communication platform for everyone working in research and development and associated areas. This evening event is mostly combined with the Global Innovation Forum and offers all participants chances for informal communication and fruitful exchange of experiences in an enjoyable ambience.
Freudenberg New Technologies has numerous contacts with industrial companies, working groups and associations at its disposal. FNT represents cross-Group interests in the field of innovation by participation in international committee meetings and innovation work groups initiated by the industry.
