The ATTRACT initiative was designed to transform scientific breakthroughs in imaging, detection, and computational technologies into commercially viable products and services for industrial markets. Its overarching ambition was to bridge the gap between frontier research and real-world applications, strengthening Europe’s deep-tech innovation capacity.
Following the launch of an open call for breakthrough ideas in 2018, the most promising concepts were selected and further developed under ATTRACT2. This second phase focused on advancing proof-of-concept technologies toward clearly defined scientific and industrial applications, while simultaneously fostering the creation of new businesses, products, and services with direct societal value. A strong emphasis was placed on ecosystem-building activities, including connections between funded projects, student researchers, and potential investors, in order to maximise the societal and economic impact of the supported technologies. By the conclusion of ATTRACT2, the supported projects were positioned to transition from public funding to private investment, contributing to Europe’s role as a leading hub for deep-tech entrepreneurship.
By the end of the project, ATTRACT2 had delivered the following tangible results:
18 funded deep-tech projects that reached, or were on the verge of reaching, Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) 7–8.
Full deployment of the ATTRACT Academy, benefiting more than 700 young European innovators.
Eight comprehensive socioeconomic studies analysing multiple dimensions of the ATTRACT innovation ecosystem.
Comprehensive information about the initiative, including project details and outcomes, is available on the ATTRACT website.
