Optence e.V. is the competence network for optical technologies in Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate. Optics is considered the cross-sectional technology of the 21st century. Its wide possibilities of application make a concentration of interests necessary. Optence e.V. brings together users of optical technologies and suppliers from industry and research. The aim is to create efficient structures of communication and to shorten the way from idea to product. Optence e.V. is a centre of cooperation and knowledge transfer which offers services like: aid programme consulting, seminars and workshops providing up to date information about optical technologies and general knowledge about economics, project management or marketing. A large area of responsibility of Optence e.V. is comprised by public relations in order to influence the image of optical technologies positively.