Recap of PhotonQBoost Matching Mission to Prague: Focus on Manufacturing & Industrial Optics
The PhotonQBoost Matching Mission to Prague took place on 24–26 March 2026, bringing together leading European photonics, laser, and quantum technology stakeholders for three days of exchange, collaboration, and ecosystem building in the Czech Republic.
Organised within the PhotonQBoost project in cooperation with the Czech Optical Cluster, the mission aimed to strengthen cross-border collaboration, support SME internationalisation, and foster new partnerships across Europe’s photonics and deep-tech ecosystems.
A strong European photonics ecosystem in focus
The mission showcased the Czech Republic as a highly dynamic photonics hub, with strong expertise in:
- advanced laser system
- precision optics and optical manufacturing
- optomechanics and metrology
- quantum and high-energy laser research
Participants had the opportunity to engage directly with leading research and innovation infrastructures and to better understand the country’s strong industry–research collaboration model.
Highlights of the programme
Over the course of three days, participants joined a rich programme combining technical insights, site visits, and networking activities:
- Ecosystem presentations on Czech photonics and quantum technologies
- Company and research pitches from participating organisations
- Visits to leading infrastructures, including ELI Beamlines and HiLASE Centre in Dolní Břežany
- Matchmaking sessions between SMEs, research organisations, and innovation stakeholders
- Networking opportunities to explore future collaboration and EU project participation
- Two pitching sessions also took place, featuring a total of 39 presenting companies that used their short time slots to outline their technologies, needs, and interest in potential partnerships.
Funded SMEs
A total of 12 SMEs were funded through the PhotonQBoost Open Call to participate in the Prague Matching Mission. These companies engaged in matchmaking, site visits, and networking activities, strengthening collaboration across Europe’s photonics and deep-tech ecosystem: Weldmetrix GmbH, Artemis Analytical Ltd., bandarlog.dev Ltd, I.D.I.L., Laser RayVen GmbH, Rayfos Ltd, Rheoo GmbH, Trace Crystal S.à.r.l., TRIMSIGNAL Single Member P.C., UPTECHLABS Bilişim ve Elektronik Teknolojileri A.Ş., LightMirror and Veles Sense d.o.o. Beograd.
Strengthening European collaboration
A central goal of the mission was to support new collaboration opportunities across Europe’s photonics value chain.
Discussions focused on:
- industrial photonics applications
- laser and quantum technology innovation
- manufacturing and precision optics
- opportunities for Horizon Europe and joint R&D initiatives
The mission created a strong platform for SMEs and research organisations to explore new partnerships and to connect with wider European innovation networks.
Looking ahead
The PhotonQBoost Matching Missions continue to play an important role in connecting European photonics ecosystems and accelerating collaboration across borders.
The Prague mission further highlighted the Czech Republic as a key European hub for lasers, quantum technologies, and industrial photonics innovation, reinforcing its importance in the broader European deep-tech landscape.
More Matching Missions are coming ahead, with the next one planned for October in Stuttgart (Germany), focusing on mobility, photonics-enabled automotive technologies, and industrial innovation in the Baden-Württemberg region.