What happens when a cluster of excellence for synthesis brings together the right minds, technologies, and ideas?

“You don’t just talk about innovation – you actively create value by transforming matter.”

At this year’s 4Synth Annual Meeting (March 2026), more than 30 experts from industry and research gathered at the Fraunhofer Center for Chemical-Biotechnological Processes CBP in Leuna to do exactly that. A big thank you to our host for providing such an inspiring and collaborative environment.

The discussions reflected the full spectrum of innovative (bio)chemical synthesis – from AI-driven process development and downstream processing to funding frameworks accelerating industrial R&D.

But what truly defines this network is its DNA: collaboration.

Already in 2006, the cluster 4Synth (former 4chiral) was founded in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, right in the heart of Central Germany’s chemical triangle. What started with just seven SMEs has grown into a powerful network of:

• 30 companies
• ~10 research partners from institutes and universities

All united by one shared mission:

„(bio)chemical synthesis – creating value by transforming matter“

Today, this unique ecosystem covers nearly the entire value chain of fine organic synthesis:

• from consulting and computational modelling
• to enzyme technologies
• to GMP and ton-scale production

As independent, often staff-owned SMEs, the partners share not only expertise but also a strong culture of flexibility, speed, and customer focus. Together, they can address almost any challenge in (Bio)Chemical Custom Synthesis.

Representing this strong network:

• ChiroBlock, represented by Dr. Oliver Seidelmann, as network speaker and expert in Chemical Custom Synthesis
• The Chemiepark Bitterfeld-Wolfen, represented by Max Fuhr, as co-speaker and key industry hub

Beyond presentations, the real highlight once again was the open exchange, bilateral discussions, and the formation of new partnerships across the synthesis landscape.

And there’s more to come:

In 2027, we will celebrate 25 years of this exceptional network – a true testament to long-term collaboration and innovation.

Next stop: Gera – we’re looking forward to continuing the journey.

#FineOrganicSynthesis #ChemicalCustomSynthesis #BioChemicalSynthesis #ClusterOfExcellence #CreateValue #ChiroBlock #4Synth #4chiral #ChemicalIndustry #ProcessIndustry #InnovationInChemistry #BiotechNetworking #Leuna #BitterfeldWolfen #Fraunhofer #SMEInnovation