The Mazovia Cluster ICT (MCICT) in Poland has across many years built up a strong partnership with Nanoprogress. Together, they have engaged in multiple EU- and COSME-funded projects, bringing technology, sustainability, and international cooperation to the fore. Here are some of the projects in which this collaboration has played a major role.
A strong partnership with common goals
MCICT is a Key National Cluster in Poland, bringing together over 500 enterprises (mostly SMEs), multiple research institutes and universities. Nanoprogress, based in the Czech Republic, is a strong cluster partner for MCICT, providing expertise in nanotechnology and advanced materials, cluster best practices, and acting as co-implementer in several projects. Their cooperation has matured over time; Nanoprogress is regularly mentioned by MCICT and in cluster networks as a trusted, professional, and inspiring partner.
Key joint projects
Here are four flagship projects in which both MCICT and Nanoprogress have played important roles:
1. BLUES (Blue and Eco industries cluster exchange for industrial modernisation)
BLUES (Blue and Eco industries cluster exchange for industrial modernisation) brought together mature clusters across Europe to strengthen cluster management, facilitate international cooperation and improve services offered to SMEs—especially those working with water sustainability, resource efficiency and marine bio-innovation. The project organized cluster exchanges, study visits and extensive B2B matchmaking to boost SME competitiveness in blue and eco sectors; MCICT and Nanoprogress were active partners in these exchange activities, helping members access new markets and collaborative opportunities.
2. GSSC (Green Small Smart Cities)
Connected clusters from Spain, Poland, Italy, and the Czech Republic across domains such as water, energy, ICT, nanotechnology, working towards sustainable development in small and smart cities. Focused on infrastructure, renewable energy, resource efficiency, digital connectivity, lowering carbon footprint, and bringing sustainable technologies to less developed or rural areas. Together, MCICT and Nanoprogress joined three international missions to Cabo Verde, Vietnam, and Chile, opening new market opportunities and strengthening international links for their members.
3. INGENIOUS (Eurocluster project for Energy-Intensive Industries, EIIs)
INGENIOUS was an EU Euroclusters initiative focused on accelerating the green and digital transition within Energy-Intensive Industries. The consortium promoted competitive sustainability, industrial sovereignty and climate-neutral strategies while supporting SMEs through innovation, training and internationalisation grants. The project run from 1 September 2022 to 31 August 2025 and included activities such as innovation grants and tailored training for SMEs operating in EIIs. MCICT has coordinated the INGENIOUS project activities. Nanoprogress has participated as partner contributing cluster expertise and helping SMEs access the project’s support instruments.
4. GreenStep
GreenStep is an Interregional Innovation Investments (I3) project that aims to empower less developed regions by fostering cooperation, knowledge sharing and investments for technology and process optimisation in Energy-Intensive Industries. Coordinated by Nanoprogress, the GreenStep consortium includes clusters, universities and industry partners across Europe and focuses on stakeholder engagement to strengthen regional innovation ecosystems and EII value chains. MCICT contributes its know-how in benchmarking and supports the project’s pilots and investment readiness activities. The GreenStep project runs from 1 November 2024 to 31 October 2026.
Looking ahead
The collaboration between Mazovia Cluster ICT and Nanoprogress is a strong example of how European clusters can combine strengths to generate greater impact. Jointly they contribute to the green and digital transitions, help SMEs become more resilient, pursue sustainability, and position their regions more strongly in European innovation ecosystems.
