Sander Opens New Innovation Centre in Shanghai

Danish industry and knowledge institutions now get much easier access to one of the world's leading knowledge centres.

This is accomplished when Helge Sander, Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, opens Denmark's second knowledge centre, known as Innovation Center Denmark, in the growth city Shanghai in China.

A city with a strong international environment for innovation, several multi-national companies and many science parks.

The first innovation centre opened in Silicon Valley in the United States in June 2006 and is already operating satisfactorily, and a third centre is expected to open in Munich in January 2008. The centres are established in close cooperation with the Trade Council of Denmark under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.

– In the years to come, we must think proactively and globally if we are to utilise the potential of globalisation. It is therefore important that we are present in the central growth markets, not only for reasons of trade but also in terms of research and innovation, says Science Minister Helge Sander.

That the choice fell on Shanghai is not merely a coincidence.

– The Shanghai region is among the richest in China and has experienced large growth in recent years. At the same time, there are massive investments in research and innovation. So it stands to reason that Denmark should be strongly represented with an innovation centre in Shanghai, says Helge Sander.

The innovation centres are to assist Danish enterprises, researchers etc. that are planning to collaborate with relevant players in the world's leading knowledge environments. In concrete terms, Danish enterprises may get assistance for seeking new partners or technological solutions and for determining customer and user demands in the local market.

The centres can also assist Danish researchers with contacts and networks to leading research and innovation environments.

Opening of Innovation Center Denmark is an important element in Science Minister Helge Sander's visit to China from 24 to 28 September 2007. A major delegation of business and university people participates in the visit.

Science Minister Helge Sander can be contacted via Communications Manager Niels Hovmand on phone number +45 40 82 89 58 or e-mail .