The objective of the RM-platform (www.rm-plateforme.com) is to contribute to a coherent strategy, understanding, development, dissemination and exploitation of Rapid Manufacturing. RM is fragmented. Lots of organizations are working or doing research in this area but there is no coherent strategy and several interpret the subject differently. There is no central organization or place for peoples to for instance ask questions, to start a discussion, to find expertise, or to up- or download an interesting paper or article. The European Commission is actively improving this by initiating projects under FP6 & FP7 (Framework Programmes) and this platform helps to achieve the Lisbon & Gothenburg objectives as defined by the EC (to become the most dynamic and most competitive knowledge-based economy by 2010 and achieving sustainability by 2030).

Micro- and NanoManufacturing is getting more and more important for innovative applications and has a strategic importance for Europe. A new Micro- and NanoManufacturing community is emerging at European level involving collaboration of manufacturers of micro- and/or nano-inside-products, equipment suppliers, research organisations and networks. The new industrially driven community for Micro- and NanoManufacturing (MINAM) (www.nanomanufacturing.eu) develops the Vision and Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) for the coming years. First results of the platform have been provided as input to the 7th Framework Programme and more specific the NMP programme. The platform intends to further strengthen the effect of European, national and regional funding programmes in terms of a higher level of coordination and implementation by industry.