LLM4KMU: Matplus brings material-specific AI solutions for SMEs
Artificial Intelligence for Materials Technology – secure, practical and data-sovereign
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly becoming a central competitive factor – also for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, access to modern AI technologies is often hampered by technical barriers and high costs. The new research project LLM4KMU addresses exactly this: It facilitates SME access to open-source language models (“Large Language Models”, LLM) and creates practical solutions for industrial applications. The project is funded by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia as part of the NEXT.IN.NRW innovation program.
Matplus: Material-specific AI solutions for SMEs
As part of the interdisciplinary consortium coordinated by Bielefeld University, Matplus develops material-specific use cases and provides tailored solutions. A first focus is on RAG systems (Retrieval-Augmented Generation), which are provided in the intranet or private cloud of customers. These systems enable companies to efficiently search, analyze and make knowledge-based decisions on material data – without compromising data sovereignty. Examples of use include intelligent search in material-related databases, e.g. for research reports, test reports, samples, inquiries, complaints.
Security, Transparency and Control
A central concern of LLM4KMU is data protection and best practices. All solutions are based on open-source technologies and can be operated within the existing IT infrastructure of companies. This allows SMEs to maintain full control over their data at all times – a crucial advantage for materials technology, where sensitive data plays a central role.
Strong Consortium from NRW
In addition to Matplus, the following partners work together in the project:
- semalytix GmbH
- CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
- ellamind GmbH
- ZENIT GmbH
- primeLine Solutions GmbH
Project goal: LLM4KMU develops production-ready AI tools that SMEs can easily and securely integrate into their business processes – without major investments or deep IT expertise. In addition, guidelines are created that facilitate the efficient, secure and cost-effective use of AI in practice.
“With LLM4KMU, we make AI accessible for SMEs – especially in materials technology, where data-driven decisions are becoming increasingly important. Our solutions help companies secure their knowledge and accelerate innovation without losing control over their data.” — Dr. Uwe Diekmann, Managing Director Matplus GmbH
About Matplus
Matplus GmbH has been developing software solutions for digital materials technology for over 20 years and relies on open-source technologies to ensure data sovereignty and flexibility. In the LLM4KMU project, Matplus contributes its expertise in material data management and AI integration to create practical, secure and cost-effective solutions for SMEs.