NWO Celebrates 75 Years

Traditional knowledge development across the full spectrum is what NWO was established for in 1950 in post-war Netherlands. Initially under a different name: the ‘Netherlands Organisation for Pure Scientific Research’ (ZWO). It was a widespread belief that a strong scientific sector significantly contributed to reconstruction and prosperity. The Netherlands should not be dependent on others but have all knowledge in-house across the full spectrum,’ says science and university historian Ab Felipse from VU Amsterdam about the founding (read the full article here). The Cold War also contributed to this and put a brake on international scientific collaboration.

Adapting to Society

Since 1988, we have carried our current name. Not only has the name changed over the years. NWO adapts to societal changes and renews itself - sometimes under external pressure. This is part of its task to ‘promote the quality of scientific research and initiate and stimulate new developments in scientific research’. Today, we finance and facilitate a wide range of research: from fundamental to applied and practice-oriented – across a large part of the knowledge chain. Researchers from all disciplines can approach NWO for funding. Internationally leading research is also conducted within NWO’s ten national research institutes.

NWO is vibrant after 75 years. We continually stimulate new forms of research, creating new connections. These are essential to tackle major societal challenges in a changing world. Research increasingly takes place with society, instead of for society. Research qualities from across society come into their own: knowledge institutions, businesses, societal organizations, governments, and citizens all play an important role. Researchers increasingly work across scientific disciplines, and co-creation plays a crucial role in the valorization of research.

Central Role

Todays science relies on shared knowledge and goals, on genuine interest in each other’s research fields. Only in this way does modern science achieve results that not only yield new knowledge but also advance society. NWO plays a central role in this. Not only as a funder and executor of scientific research but also by connecting parties and breaking down barriers. Additionally, NWO ensures that there is still enough room and funding for free and independent research, both fundamental and within individual scientific fields. Science still thrives on researchers driven by curiosity for new knowledge.

NWO has grown in its role over the past 75 years. We have moved with the times, and we will continue to strive for the very best science with the most (societal) impact in the coming decades. But we will always do this together with researchers who dedicate themselves heart and soul to new knowledge. For the benefit of society. Here’s to the next 75 years.