What does NWO stand for?
NWO is the Dutch Research Council. We are one of the largest funders for scientific research in the Netherlands and ensure quality and innovation in science. NWO focuses on all scientific disciplines and fields of research, with a focus on curiosity-driven research. We fund scientific research projects and programs, talented scientists, infrastructures, and the valorisation of research. Together with relevant stakeholders, such as the industry, the government and health funders, we work on the content of the NWO programs, the conducting of the research projects and co-funding of the projects.
What does NWO hope to get out of the partnership with the DCVA?
For NWO it is important to facilitate and stimulate both research impact and impact on society. The DCVA is a good example of a national collaboration working on research valorisation. Being part of a collaboration such as the DCVA helps NWO in meeting our goals and therefore we are glad to have joined the DCVA. For us, it is important to have an active role in new research developments. This enables us to form the right connections. This, in turn, positively contributes to maximizing the effectivity of our funding instruments.
What does NWO add to the DCVA, why should we be happy that NWO is participating? Who ultimately benefits the most?
NWO strengthens and contributes to the knowledge and the societal impact of the DCVA, which we accomplish by connecting partners from our network to the DCVA. We also have a lot of expertise on research programming and the valorisation of research. And finally, we have an active role in the coordination of DCVA research that is funded by NWO.
Question from KNAW
What opportunities and threats does NWO-TTW see in the thematic public-private partnership with investor BioGeneration Ventures in the Knowledge Utilization Pillar?
BioGeneration is an experienced party, which is very involved. In addition, they have a track record that goes back to 2006, and currently manage €120 M of investments. This does indicate that this is a club that wants and will make the collaboration a success. However, there is a risk that the DCVA makes itself strongly dependent on one party for its valorisation tasks. There are many good fund managers within life science and diversification may lead to added value in this.