Examples of these challenges include cooling electronics, algorithms for robot localization, harvesting electrical energy from vibrations, silver-coating special antennas for ASTRON, AI-based sorting of electronic waste, microlens structures for photon detection solutions, and sensors for emission monitoring in livestock farming. The projects are initiated under the leadership of lecturers and researchers at universities of applied sciences and research universities, in close collaboration with SMEs and other practice partners. The incentive scheme is implemented by Holland High Tech (High Tech Systems and Materials) and Taskforce for Applied Research SIA. 

The second and final submission deadline for the KIEM HighTech 2025 grant is 30 September 2025 before 2:00 PM. Do you know – or are you – an entrepreneur or researcher for whom this grant might be of interest?
You can find all the information here:

KIEM HighTech 2025 

Projects round 1 – 2025 

An overview of the awarded projects per knowledge institution: 

Avans Hogeschool 

• Trust in AI Planning

De Haagse Hogeschool 

• Experimental Verification of early HIF Fault Detection in Power Grids (EV-VF-E)
• Optical Stem Thickness Meter for Crop Monitoring
• Photons in Focus: research into micro-optical structures to improve the photon detection efficiency of SNSPD arrays
• Compact and Scalable Laser-Based Sensors for Emission Monitoring in Livestock Farming

Fontys Hogeschool 

• Augmenting nerve regeneration to improve proprioception in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery 
• EcoSink: further research into the potential of Phase Change Material in an alternative type of heat sink
• AI-MildewGuard: research into an AI-based image recognition system for early detection of downy mildew in roses 

HAN University of Applied Sciences 

• Orientate: on the applicability of open-source VSLAM technology as an alternative to GPS
• Virtuoso: developing a Simulink-based interface layer for virtual testing of hardware interface imperfections and failure scenarios 
• CyberTest: exploring the use of the open-source simulator CARLA for virtual verification and validation of mobile care robots in indoor environments
• Machine Learning for Optimal Order Assignment and Clustering in SME Sheet Metal Processing Companies
• MORE on Smart Damping: research into the effectiveness of smart, real-time shock absorber control in tractor-trailer combinations
• Improve handling and manoeuvrability of an electrically driven semi-trailers 
• Digital Tools for Rapid Learning Cycles: Supporting Circular Product Development in SMEs 
• C-V2X Fiets: investigates the potential of C-V2X communication to improve cyclist safety 

Hanzehogeschool Groningen 

• GeGrond: Hyperspectra from Biosensors and Impedance Spectroscopy for Monitoring Soil Salinity
• Innovative Monitoring of Floating Urbanisation Impact on Environment 

Hogeschool van Amsterdam 

• WoodFlow: Research into a Digital Design-to-Production Workflow that Converts Residual Wood Industry Streams into Unique, Scalable Interior Panels

NHL Stenden Hogeschool 

• COSMIC – Control and charge neutralization Of an electrospray-based Soft Mist Inhaler 

Saxion Hogeschool 

• Process and Material Characterisation for Large-Format 3D Printing with Aerospace-Derived rC/PPS
• Knit2Last – From Waste to Innovation
• Collaborative Aerial Robotic Team for Safety and Security (CARTS)
• FUSE: Flexible Sensor Fusion for Robots
• AdaptSort: Adaptive AI for Sorting E-Waste
• CoatBot: Feasibility Study of a Mobile Robotic Solution for Applying Cast Floors
• 3DPP – 3D Printed Plugs: Exploring the Use of 3D Silicone Printing Technology for the Production of Custom Hearing Protection
• 3D FlexiGrip: Exploring the Use of 3D Silicone Printing Technology for the Production of Flexible, Custom Grippers for Industrial Bakery Robots
• Additive Application of Solder Masks
• From Aerial Photo to Terrain Model: Innovative Approach to Land Subsidence and Landscape Management
• GranML - Machine Learning for Granular Materials Industry 
• Against GPS: VIO-WareDrones. Investigates robust vision-based state estimation for drones in GPS-denied environments like warehouses and greenhouses 

TU Delft 

• Design and Development of Wobbling Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Energy Harvesting 

University of Twente 

• XR remote support 

Hogeschool Windesheim 

• Silver Antennas for Super Radio Telescopes