Our Objectives

Advancing Sound Regulation & Standards

The slow pace of adoption of nanomaterial-enabled technologies reflects the inherent complexity and caution that define both materials science innovation and industrial product development. Changes in these sectors are often measured in years rather than months.  Industrial customers often hesitate, constrained by long development cycles and the risks of integrating novel materials. At the same time, many companies developing nanomaterial-enabled products lack deep market insight, struggle to integrate these materials into existing manufacturing processes, and underestimate the operational and financial risks their customers face.

To accelerate adoption, the NIA is committed to educating both the makers and users of nanomaterial-enabled products. For makers, our focus is on enhancing their understanding of the end-user’s perspective, product development processes, and the specific market risks their customers face and how best to address them. This education aims to bridge the gap between innovation and application, ensuring that developers are fully equipped to meet industry demands. Simultaneously, for users, we provide guidance on best practices for collaborating with makers, including insights into the maturity of the nanomaterials sector, quantification of benefits and risks, and navigating health, safety, and environmental concerns. Through these efforts, the NIA seeks to remove barriers to adoption, ensuring nanomaterials can reach their full potential in driving innovation forward and transforming industries

Additionally, by fostering a well-informed public, the NIA aims to create an environment where nanomaterials are not only accepted but embraced.  Public perception can significantly influence the success of emerging technologies, and the NIA recognizes the critical importance of public understanding and acceptance. The NIA is dedicated to engaging with the public to explain the nature of nanomaterials, their critical role in advancing innovation, and the tangible benefits that they can bring to society.