The European Commission has launched the €15 million ($16.3 million) PhotonHub PHACTORY initiative to support the development of photonic technologies. The initiative is designed to provide companies with expert support, fast-track access to Europe’s leading laboratories, and generous subsidies. Led by Brussels Photonics (B-PHOT) at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), the initiative builds on the success of PhotonHub Europe, which to date has helped more than 100 companies deliver more than €750 million in new revenues, create 1000 jobs, and raise €250 million in venture capital in just four years. Professor Hugo Thienpont, director of Brussels Photonics and coordinator of the PhotonHub program. Courtesy of PhotonHub. “Building on our impact to date and in response to the needs of the market, we are extending PhotonHub’s previous offering to also support entrepreneurially minded researchers and start-ups,” said professor Hugo Thienpont, director of Brussels Photonics and coordinator of the PhotonHub program. The program aims to lower the barrier to market entry by offering subsidies that can cover up to 85% of project costs, greatly reducing risks for businesses. It is expected to help companies achieve a wider and faster uptake, integration, and deployment of photonic technologies, boost competitiveness, and foster new business. With more than 30 European partners, the framework covers the entire value chain from early-stage concept and prototyping to upscaling. It spans a wide range of technology platforms, facilitating open access and guided orientation to a broad range of photonics expertise, equipment, and technologies available from leading facilities throughout Europe. The PhotonHub PHACTORY team is offering tailored support streams for EU companies, depending on their stage, technology readiness level, and strategic ambitions. These include a launchpad for spinouts and start-ups, a "scaling club" for fast-growing ventures, and customized business coaching for established SMEs and some large-scale companies aiming for market growth. The framework, which runs until the end of 2028, targets small and mid-sized firms across all sectors, offering tailored support depending on their needs. This includes expert assessments on technical and commercial viability at no cost, access to Europe’s researchers and laboratories, and training and coaching across various industries.