The membership reinforces Sibelco’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and collaboration across industry and academia. BiR&D connects industrial R&D leaders, innovation managers, and technology experts from a wide range of sectors to strengthen Belgium’s position as a leading hub for industrial research and innovation.
Founded in 2009, BiR&D today represents approximately 10,000 professionals in Belgium and more than 75,000 worldwide. The association focuses on fostering transformative learning, cross-industry networking, and collaborative approaches to societal and industrial challenges.
Dominique Coster, PhD, Technical and Network Development Manager at BiR&D, welcomed Sibelco’s membership:
“Sibelco has been officially welcomed as a full member of BiR&D and we are looking forward to working with you and exploring new ways to grow and succeed together. We are confident that Sibelco’s expertise and innovative spirit will enrich our community and help drive forward the goals of BiR&D.”As part of the network, Sibelco will engage with other industrial R&D leaders to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and contribute to innovation initiatives focused on sustainability, operational excellence, and future technologies.
Thierry Materne, VP Technology & Innovation at Sibelco, said:
“Joining BiR&D reflects Sibelco’s commitment to open innovation and collaboration. By engaging with a strong network of industrial R&D leaders, universities, and innovation partners, we can accelerate learning, strengthen our innovation capabilities, and contribute to addressing the sustainability and societal challenges shaping our industries.” BiR&D also promotes strong collaboration between industry and universities through its updated Industry-University Charter, which emphasizes sustainability, diversity, equity and inclusion, effective knowledge exchange, and impactful innovation partnerships that help address societal challenges.
