Internationalisation of programmes usually is backed by a clear vision and strategy. When developing a strategy, you might consider the following points:

• Is there any national strategy on R&D internationalisation? What does this mean for your programme?
• Establish clear guidelines as to what level of international involvement of foreign partners in a CRC is on the one hand expected and acceptable.
  • Be very clear about the internationalisation aims of the programme. Potential aims are, for example,
    o        cooperation with the best researchers in the world
    o        closing of gaps in your knowledge/competence portfolio
    o        acquisition of new knowledge
    o        access to new markets
    o        contribution to solutions for global challenges
    o        access to highly talented students, researchers, engineers etc
  • Different aims will require different instruments, for example:
    o        Funding of foreign partners in your CRC
    o        Supporting contact journeys to the best in the world
    o        guest status in CRCs
    o        cooperation with external trade agencies to support marketing activities abroad
    o        dissemination of information on cooperation partners etc.
  • Think about the needs of the topics you are addressing with your CRCs. Medical technologies, for example, often need to be supported in certification processes for international markets.
•  Do you want to go global? Or do you want to start on the European level? Are countries such as the USA, Australia or Canada appropriate “target countries”? Or do you want to focus on somewhat more “difficult countries”?
• Think about the sustainability of your international activities. Try to influence structures, mentalities and modes of finding partners. Then you will have lasting effects.