The Münsterland Innovation Region
Innovation in the Münsterland region arises from the interaction between businesses, universities, research institutions, start-ups and strong networks. The region combines a strong SME sector with a diverse academic landscape and expertise across various technological and application fields.
Particular strengths are evident in seven innovation ecosystems – ranging from battery systems and the circular economy to smart production systems and robotics. These key areas are also highlighted in the Münsterland Regional Innovation Profile by NRW.innovativ, which provides a data-driven analysis of the innovation landscape across the regions of North Rhine-Westphalia. The analysis examines economic and research structures, innovation and start-up activities, as well as regional priorities, networks and development potential.
Battery systems
Münster boasts a unique research infrastructure in the form of the MEET Battery Research Centre and the Fraunhofer Institute for Battery Cell Research and Production (FFB). Together with other scientific and industrial stakeholders, the spectrum of expertise ranges from materials and cell research to the transfer of new processes into industrial production.
Circular economy
In the Münsterland region, businesses and the academic sector are exploring new approaches to circular value creation – from materials and recycling to resource-efficient production processes and business models. The Münsterland Circular Economy Region pools expertise and brings together stakeholders from across the region.
Renewable Energy and Hydrogen
Renewable energy plays an important role in the Münsterland region. The region possesses expertise in wind energy, bioenergy and photovoltaics. Industry, academia and public sector stakeholders are also working on smart energy systems, hydrogen technologies and solutions for integrating renewable energy into the economy and transport.
More on renewable energy and hydrogen
Future-oriented agriculture and food industry
Agriculture, the food industry, mechanical engineering and research come together directly in the Münsterland region. This gives rise to innovations across the entire value chain – for example, in smart farming, automation, the bioeconomy and sustainable food systems.
More on the agricultural and food sector
Future-oriented healthcare sector and care services
The University of Münster, the University Hospital, research institutes and companies combine medical research with expertise in fields including biomedicine, bioanalytics and medical technology. This gives rise to new approaches to diagnostics, therapy and healthcare.
Smart finance and insurance
Banks, insurance companies, academia and start-ups in the Münsterland region are working on the digital future of financial services. Artificial intelligence, data-driven applications and new digital business models are opening up new opportunities for development and collaboration.
Find out more about finance and insurance
Smart Production Systems and Robotics
The Münsterland region’s industrial base combines with expertise in automation, robotics and digitalisation. Companies, universities and networks are developing applications ranging from smart factories and the Industrial IoT through to predictive maintenance and digital twins.