1. Building A Belgian Earth Observation Cluster Presentation of Project results Vital Schreurs, MD - GIM nv/sa

2. Brussels, 26th May 20002 Context Oct 98: “Study on the Potential of Cluster-Based Innovation Policies for EO in Belgium” (KUL) April 99: OSTC Call for Proposals re cluster formation for 2 market segments – agriculture ~Agrinet (GIM) – SPOT-VGT applications VEGETATION cluster initiative (Vito) Nov 99: cluster initiatives have been joined formation of 1 EO cluster

3. Brussels, 26th May 20003 Cluster Objectives

4. Brussels, 26th May 20004 Increase the critical mass w.r.t. EO expertise and skills available in Belgium – better service provision by joining complementary skills and expertise – increasing awareness of Belgian expertise on international market

5. Brussels, 26th May 20005 Further develop the (Belgian) market for EO applications – ensure sustainability of EO sector – economic growth of members – independence of government financing

6. Brussels, 26th May 20006 Role & Responsibilities

7. Brussels, 26th May 20007 Industrial networking – stimulate cooperation between members – encourage information flow between members – increase international awareness of Belgian RS expertise – participate in large international programs – enable market development –...

8. Brussels, 26th May 20008 Skills development – stimulate knowledge transfer / inform. exchange – provide continuous education and training – support recruitment mechanisms – facilitate staff mobility between organisations –...

9. Brussels, 26th May 20009 Interfacing to governmental organizations – financial support for joint initiatives – defend common interests – …