Nov. 15, 2002 — Europe has massive interest in nanotechnology at the academic level, but successfully moving it all to market will require the combined efforts of the European Union, individual governments and trade groups, according to a new report.

“How Nano is Europe? An Analysis of Nanotechnology-based Expressions of Interest in the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6),” analyzes nano-related opportunities and activities in the FP6, the EU’s main instrument for research funding. The report, published by the European NanoBusiness Association, seeks to identify commercial opportunities and track progress by geographic location.

The report also concludes that the FP6’s success will depend significantly on whether national governments put in place measures necessary to commercialize research. It finds there is wide variation across Europe with respect to initiatives and progress in this area.