IVAM Microtechnology Network has recently welcomed its 200th member: Laser Competence Centre Finland, expert and network for optoelectronics and laser technology. The growth of the association - the number of members has doubled during the last five years - indicates the positive development of the industry, says IVAM managing director Dr. Christine Neuy: "Despite all predictions to the contrary, many medium-sized high-tech companies are economically very well-off. Half of our members have hired more employees in the last year, and three quarters plan to create new jobs within the next three to five years", Neuy points out. The 100 IVAM member companies in Germany employ about 7,500 people.

IVAM is an international association of companies and institutes in the fields of microtechnology, nanotechnology and advanced materials. At present about 200 companies and institutes from thirteen countries in Europe, Asia and North America are IVAM members. As the communicative bridge between suppliers and users of microtechnology products and services, IVAM brings innovations to market and creates competitive advantages via technology marketing. Furthermore, IVAM offers lobbying services for small and medium-sized enterprises, qualification and world-wide networking.