OMICRON: Building a real-world strategy for road infrastructure innovation

Booster supports EU-funded projects across diverse fields, helping turn research outputs into impactful, real-world solutions. From energy to infrastructure, health to AI, and beyond, Booster equips teams with the tools and guidance needed to move from results to impact.

This was the case with OMICRON, an EU-funded Horizon2020 project, aimed at modernising road infrastructure inspection through autonomous aerial systems, sensor fusion, and digital twin technologies. By working with Booster, the OMICRON team was able to build a refined exploitation strategy that will support the long-term success of its innovations.

Shaping a strategy for long-term impact

OMICRON set out to improve the way road networks are monitored and maintained. By integrating robotic aerial systems with AI-powered analysis and a real-time digital twin platform, the project offers a scalable and proactive approach to road maintenance.

Through the initial market analysis work, the team identified a clear niche. Booster provided the right structure for the team to take that work further and refine their exploitation pathway for OMICRON’s innovations.

Practical tools and expert support

"Very quickly, our advisor got in touch and provided us with a clear roadmap tailored to our goals," explained Ballesta. "Over the course of several meetings, and through the use of different modules, spreadsheets, canvases, and a variety of practical exercises, we began to shape a strategy to exploit our results effectively, addressing key aspects for the successful continuation of the project."

The Booster service helped the OMICRON team confront a challenge that many R&D projects face: namely, how to transition from research outcomes to actionable, market-ready solutions. "Often, R&D projects conclude without a clear pathway to real-world impact, particularly from a commercial perspective. We used Booster to overcome this challenge."

Advice for future and potential applicants

Reflecting on the experience, Ballesta offered clear advice for other projects considering Booster. "It’s important to have at least one person fully committed to participating in the workshops, webinars, and various exercises offered by Booster. Ultimately, the key to success is investing real human effort into the process."

He emphasised that while the Booster experts provide guidance and support, the outcome depends heavily on how committed the project team is. "It’s essential to allocate time and show genuine interest in each task. With the support of Booster experts, the tools they provide, and the commitment of the people involved in the project, the service can truly enhance the exploitation potential of your results and help your organisation develop an optimal strategy to reach its goals."

About OMICRON
OMICRON addresses the limitations of traditional road infrastructure inspection methods by deploying robotic aerial systems, AI, and digital twins to improve efficiency, safety, and accuracy. Its innovations aim to enable earlier detection of damage, reduce operational downtime, and support proactive maintenance planning across Europe’s road networks.

Interested in learning more about how Booster can help your project achieve its full potential? You can hear directly from the OMICRON project during the 26 November 2025 Booster info session.