Services · Cluster Expansion

Growing the Cluster,
Strengthening the Industry

Toolpoint integrates the entire value chain — from universities and suppliers to customers and research institutes — to support a thriving, competitive lab science cluster in Switzerland and beyond.

ABOUT THIS SERVICE

A Vertical Cluster Built on the Full Value Chain

Toolpoint is focused on the lab science industry. All of its core members are active in the manufacture and development of analytical instrumentation, lab equipment, liquid handling, automation systems or diagnostics instrumentation.

In order to strengthen the individual competitiveness of the core members, Toolpoint operates as a vertical industrial cluster — integrating the entire value chain into the network, including universities, suppliers, producers as members with supplier status, research institutes and customers on a project-specific basis.

This supports the integration of new technologies, processes and techniques, providing a boost in expertise for the entire industrial cluster. In return, members with supplier or academia status have direct access to the core members, which considerably simplifies cooperation.

Toolpoint support this cluster development — through research initiatives, international dialogue, and dedicated support for the next generation of lab science entrepreneurs.

Value Chain Integration

  • Core Members Manufacturers & Developers
  • Supplier Members Technology Providers
  • Academia Universities & Institutes
  • Customers Project-Specific Basis

Three Pillars of Cluster Growth

Toolpoint actively drives cluster expansion through structured research collaboration, international networking, and tailored support for emerging companies.

Research Initiatives with Academia

Toolpoint promotes collaboration between members and academia by maintaining an active research pipeline across Swiss universities and institutions.
  • Maintaining regular dialogue with academia
  • Actively supporting university project initiatives
  • Arranging research, studies and diploma theses
  • Regularly carrying out R&D projects with universities

International Cross-Cluster Dialogue

Toolpoint encourages members to engage with other clusters and international organisations — broadening perspective and opening new collaboration channels.
  • Regular updates on activities in clusters such as Spectaris (Germany)
  • Active collaboration with SystemX
  • Membership in Swiss Biotech, LifeScience Zurich, ELRIG
  • Active contacts in the US and East Asia

Spin-off & Start-up Support

Toolpoint promotes the creation and development of spin-offs and start-ups — helping young entrepreneurs navigate funding, membership and bureaucratic hurdles.
  • Helping find funding partners and investors
  • Special membership conditions for young entrepreneurs
  • Support overcoming bureaucratic and regulatory hurdles
  • Close contact with CTI Invest and key universities

From Idea to Cluster Member

Toolpoint is in close contact with the CTI Invest platform for young companies and key universities. Whether you are spinning out of a research institution or building a new venture from scratch, Toolpoint provides the network and practical support to help you get established.

Young entrepreneurs benefit from special Toolpoint membership conditions — reducing barriers to joining the cluster at the earliest stage, when access to an established industry network matters most.

  • Connect with Toolpoint

    Reach out to the Toolpoint team to discuss your venture and explore how the cluster can support your growth ambitions.

  • Access the Network

    Benefit from special membership conditions and gain direct access to core cluster members, suppliers and academia.

  • Find Funding Partners

    Toolpoint helps connect emerging companies with relevant funding platforms, foundations and government programmes.

  • Navigate the Hurdles

    The team provides practical guidance on bureaucratic and regulatory requirements — so you can focus on building your business.

All Toolpoint Services

Education & Training is one of six service pillars Toolpoint provides to its members. Explore the others below.

Education & Further Training

Scientists, engineers and researchers working on product development and laboratory innovation.
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Policy Action & Representation

Advocacy with political institutions and regulatory bodies on behalf of the lab science cluster.
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Services for Members

Tailored member support including the Who-is-Who directory, job postings and IP consultations.
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Innovation & Technology

Joint R&D projects, technology platforms and the Toolpoint Innovation Process.
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Research & Network

Collaborative research, expert groups and the T-TIP Technology Information Platform.
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Events & Community

The Swiss Symposium on Lab Automation, Top of Toolpoint CEO event, and more.
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