IVAM e.V. is an international industrial network with presently 152 members from all relevant fields of microsystems technology (MST). IVAM's main purpose is to make technological innovations and developments in MST known to a broad public and help them conquer the market. In particular, the network supports small and medium-sized enterprises in bringing their innovative manufacturing techniques and products to the market and prevail in international competition. IVAM is an international network with a regional focus on the German province North Rhine Westphalia. To some extend, IVAM's activities enforce the structural change of this region. Moreover, IVAM closely co-operates with other German and international institutions working in the field of technology transfer.