The PhotonicNet competence network sees itself as the nucleus for interdisciplinary cooperation in the opto-technologies, primarily aiming at an acceleration of the development, dissemination, and application of the optical technologies. Among the partners of the network are globally renowned research institutes, worldwide leading manufacturers of lasers and optical components, universities and technical colleges, as well as institutions from the public and finance sectors. The interdisciplinary structure of the competence network makes it possible to point the way ahead for an optimal transfer of R&D results into practice along the entire net product chain.