A classic example of a collaboration: A company identifies a need for research or development; for example, it wants to bring a product innovation to market, solve a security problem, have security processes certified, or demonstrate a product’s security features. A discussion with Fraunhofer SIT reveals what solutions are available, what type of collaboration makes sense, and what level of effort can be expected. The collaboration—whether small-scale or extensive—aims to solve the problem and introduce the innovation into the company’s operations or onto the market.

Some problems are so complex that they require multiple partners to develop a solution. In such cases, clients have access to the entire Fraunhofer SIT network. External partners and other companies can also be brought in. Our researchers have experience in managing large projects efficiently and fairly. And they also know which government grants are available for such projects.

Fraunhofer aims to advance promising technologies. This pioneering research, which is initially conducted independently of specific contracts, often leads to long-term partnerships with companies. The goal of these cooperations often is to bring new technologies to market.

Fraunhofer SIT has an international network and maintains close ties with leading international cybersecurity ecosystems, particularly in Israel and the United States. Many Fraunhofer SIT employees have international experience, relevant cultural and language skills, and firsthand knowledge of global markets. In addition, the Fraunhofer Society maintains numerous offices abroad. This facilitates international projects, and  companies operating internationally can also be supported abroad.

Researchers at Fraunhofer SIT are creative security experts who know how to put good ideas into practice. They sometimes branch out on their own with a new development and start their own companies. The institute itself is involved in such start-ups only to a certain extent. Sometimes the clients commissioning a new development are themselves interested in becoming partners in the spin-off company. This allows them to participate in the long-term success and further development of a technology.

The relationship between a spin-off and Fraunhofer SIT usually remains close. The new companies know firsthand the benefits of a research partnership, leverage their contacts, and are happy to continue working with Fraunhofer SIT. Information about our startup activities