Underground laboratories are unique environments that offer great opportunities for innovation and business development. The work done there may also contribute to local and regional development.
The focus and activities at the different underground laboratories range from mining, research and technical development, to safety training, education and tourism. Underground laboratories can give local communities an economic boost and kick-start regional development by creating jobs and encouraging new businesses and networking initiatives.
The process of innovation and business development may begin far from the underground laboratory. Once the concepts have been clarified, the underground laboratory can offer help through innovation management, start-up support and business incubators.