Incubator for Innovation: RDM Rotterdam
The smartest port in the world
In 2012, the Port of Rotterdam decided to breathe new life into the iconic shipyard with an ambitious vision: to transform Rotterdam from the largest to the smartest port in the world. The goal was to turn RDM into an incubator for innovation, where education, research, and entrepreneurship come together—the three E’s that are central to the renewed RDM site.
Collaboration between education and industry
Educational institutions such as Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences and the Rotterdam Technical College play an important role on the RDM campus. Students and researchers are given space here to delve into technologies and new applications for industry. Various research projects take place in the monumental Machine Hall, offering students the opportunity to develop solutions for current technical and societal challenges.
Innovation Dock: focus on innovation and business
The Innovation Dock is home to innovative startups and established companies collaborating on technological breakthroughs. The only requirement for participation is that each company has a clear focus on innovation, often with research and development (R&D) as a core activity. One of the successful companies here is Dent IoT. This company was founded in 2015 by three partners, two of whom previously set up RDM Makerspace (now the event agency RDM Next). Together with companies like KPN, Dent IoT long organized workshops and demonstrations to introduce businesses to the Internet of Things (IoT) and its many possibilities.
Dent IoT and Imbema: collaboration between innovation and experience
A great example of cross-fertilization at the RDM campus is the collaboration between Dent IoT and Imbema. Imbema and Dent IoT first met in 2017 during an innovation workshop about IoT, smart doorbells, and little bits—a kind of magnetic Lego with sensors. After a brief pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the two companies reconnected. Dent IoT brought deep expertise in sensors and telemetry, while Imbema has a broad client network and extensive experience. This led to a strategic partnership combining the best of both worlds: the innovative strength of a startup with the scale and impact of an experienced SME.
Remote monitoring solution
A concrete result of this collaboration is the development of the Imbema SenseiAS – the Asset Guard. A remote monitoring solution deployed to bring critical energy and industrial assets online. By connecting them online, they can be monitored and controlled automatically. This applies not only to new assets but especially to existing and aging assets that require intensive maintenance and are prone to wear. Imbema, with its roots in the protection of underground metal asset infrastructure, applies this smart technology widely in the energy sector. Think of solutions like smart meters, transformer stations, and network management to tackle issues such as grid congestion.
Thriving manufacturing industry
Today, the renewed RDM campus is a thriving environment where innovative ideas and practical applications reinforce each other. By bringing together companies, educational institutions, and industry, RDM contributes to Rotterdam’s ambition to be the smartest port in the world. This vibrant incubator for innovation proves that the Dutch manufacturing industry is very much alive today—but in a new form that fits the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
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