Introduction
The survey was conducted between 8 and 20 April 2026 among members of the microEPC Cluster as part of the preparation of an application for support under the Supra-Regional Growth Clusters programme. Its objective was to assess the current level of internationalization of member organizations, identify the main barriers to international expansion, and determine the forms of support expected by Cluster members.
A total of 23 organizations participated in the survey, with 91% already operating in international markets. The results demonstrate a high level of export maturity among Cluster members while highlighting the need for more advanced and targeted internationalization support.
Barriers to internationalization
The most significant barrier identified by respondents is the high cost of entering international markets (over 60% of responses), particularly expenses related to participation in trade fairs, marketing activities, logistics, and the development of international sales networks.
Another major obstacle is the limited access to international business contacts (approximately 35–40%), making it difficult for companies to integrate into global value chains. Other frequently cited barriers include:
- limited international visibility and low market recognition of technologies (approximately 25–30%),
- regulatory and certification requirements (approximately 20–25%),
- strong competition and price pressure (approximately 20–25%),
- cultural and organizational differences (approximately 15–20%).
The findings indicate that the challenges are not only financial but also relational and systemic, underscoring the need for a comprehensive internationalization support framework.
Industry Sectors and Specializations
The Cluster operates within the deep-tech sector, with a strong focus on:
- Photonics and optics (approximately 61%),
- Defence technologies (approximately 61%).
Other important technology areas include:
- Microelectronics and semiconductors (approximately 52%),
- Industrial technologies (approximately 48%),
- Optoelectronics (approximately 39%).
The survey also demonstrates the broad application potential of technologies developed by Cluster members, including applications in the space, medical, telecommunications, industrial, infrastructure, and data centre sectors.
Target Markets
Western Europe remains the primary target market (approximately 91% of responses), with Germany identified by approximately 74% of respondents.
Other priority markets include:
- United States (approximately 74%),
- Asia, particularly Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan (approximately 65%).
Additional markets of interest include the Middle East (including Israel), India, Canada, and the Nordic countries.
These results suggest that internationalization efforts should focus primarily on leading global technology markets while maintaining flexibility to explore emerging opportunities.
Preferred Forms of Support
The highest level of interest was expressed for participation in international trade fairs as exhibitors (approximately 78%), confirming the importance of direct technology promotion and face-to-face business development.
Other highly valued forms of support include:
- trade missions and B2B matchmaking events (approximately 65%),
- study visits to international innovation ecosystems (approximately 52%).
Respondents emphasized the importance of practical activities enabling direct engagement with international partners.
Interest in International Industry Events
The most frequently indicated international trade fairs were:
- Photonics West (USA)
- Laser World of Photonics (Germany)
- SEMICON Europa (Germany)
Open-ended responses also highlighted interest in Embedded World.
Overall, respondents demonstrated a clear preference for internationally recognized events focused on photonics, microelectronics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Trade Missions and Networking
There is strong interest in participation in trade missions to European technology ecosystems, particularly in France, Germany, and the Netherlands, with approximately 70–83% positive responses.
The networking events generating the greatest interest include:
- French Photonics Days
- Photonics Days (Germany)
- PIC Summit Europe
Training and Advisory Needs
Companies identified a need for specialized support in the following areas:
- export of dual-use and defence technologies (approximately 61%),
- market intelligence and market analysis (approximately 43%),
- financing international cooperation (approximately 39%),
- regulatory compliance and certification (approximately 35%).
The preferred support format is individual consultancy (approximately 65%), complemented by training programmes and analytical services.
Key Needs and Findings
The most important internationalization priorities identified by Cluster members are:
- participation in international trade fairs (over 70%),
- development of business contacts and networking (approximately 50%),
- organization of international trade missions (approximately 35%).
The survey clearly indicates that companies value opportunities for direct interaction with international partners while emphasizing the importance of reducing participation costs through financial and organizational support.
Summary
The survey confirms that the microEPC Cluster brings together companies with a high level of internationalization operating in advanced technology sectors. At the same time, there is a clear need for comprehensive support covering promotional, networking, advisory, and operational activities.
Particular emphasis should be placed on specialized technology markets and participation in international innovation ecosystems, enabling Cluster members to strengthen their position within global value chains.
Recommendations
Based on the survey findings, it is recommended to implement an integrated Cluster internationalization programme comprising the following strategic actions:
1. Support for Participation in International Trade Fairs (Priority)
Provide comprehensive support for companies participating in international trade fairs—particularly as exhibitors—including the organization of joint exhibition stands, financial assistance, and preparation for effective technology promotion and business development.
2. Development of International Networking and Matchmaking
Strengthen international business relationships through B2B matchmaking events, cooperation with foreign clusters, and improved access to strategic partners and global value chains.
3. Organization of Trade Missions to Key Innovation Ecosystems
Organize outbound and inbound trade missions to leading technology hubs—particularly in Western Europe—combining study visits, business meetings, and participation in major industry events.
4. Focus on Priority Markets
Concentrate internationalization activities on Western Europe (particularly Germany), the United States, and selected Asian markets, while maintaining sufficient flexibility to explore emerging markets.
5. Specialized Advisory and Analytical Support
Provide companies with tailored consultancy and training in areas critical to international expansion, including regulatory compliance, certification, export of dual-use technologies, and market intelligence.
6. Strengthening International Visibility of the Cluster
Implement coordinated promotional and communication activities to enhance the visibility of both the Cluster and its members through international conferences, trade fairs, and targeted marketing campaigns.
7. Implementation of a Comprehensive Internationalization Support Model
Develop and implement an integrated support process covering all stages of international expansion—from market readiness and entry to operational support (“last mile”), including sales, logistics, and business network development.
Executive Summary
The survey results identify two priority technology segments—photonics and microelectronics—and two primary application domains—defence and industry.
The preferred geographical focus comprises Western Europe (with particularly strong interest in markets beyond Germany), the United States, and selected Asian countries, including Taiwan, South Korea, and China.
Companies expect internationalization support that facilitates the establishment of new business relationships while reducing the financial barriers associated with international expansion.
Prepared by: Igor Deryło
April 24, 2026