Information and communication technologies (ICT) are considered key to innovation. They are the stimulators of growth and employment in almost every industry. Hence, the German government has prioritised ICT in its promotion of research, development and innovation, firmly anchoring this field in its high-tech strategy. In this context, the German government can draw on the long-standing experience of the DLR Project Management Agency. Our ‘Information technology’ and ‘Technical innovation in business’ work areas provide the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) with practical assistance to further the cause of research into topics such as Industry 4.0, big data, or electromobility. Moreover, we are respected experts, called on frequently by ministries and foundations dealing with topics such as high-performance computing or IT security. Within our ‘Innovation forums’ programme, we also support BMBF in building regional innovation networks involving the states of former East Germany.
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At the DLR Project Management Agency, we are also specialised in international ICT research strategies. We support coordination between European and national funding measures and support the ministries in research policy decisions in Brussels and on programme committees within the member states. Furthermore, in our capacity as National Contact Point for ICT, we advise German applicants on Horizon 2020, the European Framework Programme for research and information, and provide information on the national funding programme ‘ICT 2020 – Research for Innovation’.