This Thematic Series summarizes the discussion and exchange between groups active in this exciting yet very challenging field of hybrid nanomaterials research. One of the remaining challenges is the transfer of these fascinating materials to large-scale applications in fields that are relevant to our modern society, such as healthcare, energy, environment, safety and security, but also less obvious fields such as the arts and restoration. This clearly shows that, beyond simply developing new hybrid materials, there is a need to bring the most promising materials to the market for the benefit of the entire world.