Introduction -- What is nanotechnology? -- Why is nanotechnology important? -- Which approach should be adopted to ensure that nanotechnology is safe? -- Worldwide funding and activities in nanotechnology R&D -- Nanotechnology R&D in third countries -- Nanotechnology R&D in Europe -- The road to the infinitely small: five dynamics to stimulate progress -- Research and development: building the momentum -- Infrastructure: European "poles of excellence" -- Investing in human resources -- Industrial innovation, from knowledge to technology -- Integrating the societal dimension -- Public health, safety, environmental and consumer protection -- A further step: international co-operation -- Annex: an estimate of public funding in nanotechnology.