Research organisations

TNO is an independent research organisation that connects people and knowledge to create innovations that boost the competitive strength of industry and the well-being of society in a sustainable way. By translating scientific knowledge into practical applications, TNO increases the innovation capacity of businesses and government.

Tecnalia Research & Innovation is a private, independent non-profit applied research centre of international excellence; Tecnalia is the leading private and independent research and technology organisation in Spain and one of the largest in Europe, employing more than 1,400 people. Tecnalia is committed to generating positive social, environmental and economic impact through innovation and technological development.

VTT - Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd (VTT), owned by the Finnish state, is one of Europe's leading research institutions. Its purpose is to bring together people, business, science, and technology, to solve the world’s biggest challenges, creating sustainable growth, jobs, and well-being. VTT creates systemic and technological breakthroughs that bring fundamental transformation and renewal to industries and societies.

With a staff of 1400, the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in Freiburg, Germany is the largest solar energy research institute in Europe. Fraunhofer ISE is committed to promoting sustainable, economic, safe and socially just energy supply systems based on renewable energies. The Institute is a member of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Europe’s largest application-oriented research organization.

Centre d'études et d'expertise sur les risques, l'environnement, la mobilité et l'aménagement (CEREMA) is the French major public agency for developing public expertise in the fields of urban planning, regional cohesion, and ecological and energy transition for resilient and climate neutral cities and regions. It has a staff of 2,600 people out of which 500 are dedicated to research and innovation activities.

Dark Matter Laboratories (DML) is a Netherlands-based lab working to transition society in response to technological revolution and climate breakdown. DML has a strong expertise and track record in strategic design to support cities and international institutions on systemic cross-silo policy and digital innovation, decarbonisation portfolio development, and governance and regulatory innovation.

Cartif Technology Center (CARTIF) is a leading Spanish Applied Research Centre in terms of R&D and technology transfer activities created in 1994. CARTIF is formed up by more than 150 researchers and the Energy Division is one of the three main areas of knowledge and activity.

AIT is Austria's largest Research and Technology Organization (RTO). AIT is an independent, urban know-how partner that develops cutting-edge urban management and planning solutions. By embracing today’s complexities, AIT is pioneering new ways to plan and realise the sustainable, smart and resilient habitats of tomorrow.