“Bringing Ideas Forward” – that was the motto of Making Waves, an event for smart and viable innovations focusing on the climate, water, energy, food, transport, and health. Making Waves is part of Ideas from Europe, a foundation that facilitates the development of ideas about issues which have a serious social and economic impact.
Unique location
In September 2017, the event was held at a unique location on the Afsluitdijk and attracted over 600 people, including big names like Kofi Annan and Tom Middendorp. Seventeen innovations competed for prizes. Micreos walked away with the Jury Prize. The company has come up with a way to fight bacterial infections without antibiotics. Rain(a)Way won the Public Choice Award.
Concrete deals
In the large tent on the edge of the Wadden Sea, concrete deals were made between the originators of ideas, investors, and companies. Kofi Annan, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, promised to bring the Villagepump initiative into contact with the UN Refugee Agency. Mr Annan believes that the pump, which purifies dirty water and makes it safe to drink, is perfect for use in refugee camps. The DSM Vice Presidentattending the event recognised the potential of Dutch aWEARness, a firm that designs and produces fully recyclable clothing.
