on August 27, 2025 is in the SKILL building in Drachten the new ICD project “AI in R&D for High Tech Systems” launched. This project brings together the strengths of leading high-tech companies in the Northern Netherlands who are jointly investigating how to artificial intelligence (AI) can contribute to a more efficient R&D process.

Participating companies are Batenburg Beenen, Demcon, Quant Controls, Spark Holland, Variass and Viventris. From each company, one or more enthusiastic team members were present during the kickoff.

Purpose of the project

The central question of this three-year project is: How can AI increase the efficiency and quality of R&D processes in high-tech systems?
The focus is on:

• Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI (GenAI).
• Smart use of data in R&D processes
• Support in developing both software and hardware

Kickoff in Drachten

During the kickoff, the frameworks and ambitions of the project were jointly established. The program included a round of introductions and administrative agreements. Concrete deliverables were also discussed and how results will be shared both internally and externally.

The next meeting will consist of identifying knowledge needs in the field of AI and planning the first joint working session. This will include looking at involving other ICD-businesses, such as Photonis, who have already made strides in AI applications.

Working together on the future of AI in the Northern Netherlands

With this “AI in R&D for High Tech Systems” project, the ICD is demonstrating how cooperation between high-tech companies from the North Netherlands region can accelerate innovation. By sharing knowledge and jointly experimenting with AI, the partners are building new possibilities for software development, hardware design and data-driven R&D processes.

Over the next three years, the companies within this project will regularly share their results and involve other partners. In doing so, this initiative will grow into an important AI community for high-tech systems in the Northern Netherlands.