IRCs in regions that have strengths in a particular technological field such as biotechnology, environmental technology or wood technology form Special Interest Groups.

These provide platforms for highly targeted joint activities such as brokerage events or inter-company visits. Their in-depth understanding of the sectors concerned helps to streamline technology transfer.

Bringing together IRCs with shared technical expertise, the Special Interest Groups build bridges between European regions which are active in common and/or complementary industrial or technological sectors.

Cross border group of IRC further exploit their synergies by establishing closer relations, by jointly organising and promoting (cross-border) technology transfer events, and by organizing company missions.

The regions selected are based on client companies' expressed preferences on doing business with other companies in the covered regions.

IRCs collaborating other than merely in particular technological fields but in determined regions have likewise formed IRC clusters.

Their in-depth understanding of the regions and their technological and intercultural interdependences helps to streamline transnational technology transfer. As a result the business communities in (historic) industrial areas will be strengthened by technology cooperations and partnerships.