Zeeland takes major step forward in AI adoption with packed innovation event
Over 280 professionals from Zeeland's government, education, and business sectors gathered to explore AI's future in the region. The event highlighted practical applications, collaboration needs, and a new film series showcasing local AI success stories—helping businesses prepare for technological change.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | The State of AI in Zeeland at Schouwburg, Middelburg |
| Date | March 24, 2026 |
| Participants | 280 (government, education, business) |
| Film Series Premiere | 6-part Zeeland AI series, weekly releases starting March 25, 2026 |
| AI Hub Research Findings | Need for collaboration, fragmented knowledge, demand for practical support |
| Key Organizations Involved | Provincie Zeeland, HZ University, Impuls Zeeland, Scalda, Boldr Digital |
| YouTube Channel | Provincie Zeeland |
Provincie Zeeland plays a coordinating role in regional innovation, fostering collaboration between businesses, educational institutions, and government to drive technological adoption. This event aligns with its mission to position Zeeland as a leader in AI implementation and knowledge sharing.
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280 participants explore the future of AI in Zeeland
Interest in artificial intelligence (AI) in Zeeland is substantial. This became evident on Tuesday, March 24, during the event *The State of AI in Zeeland* at the Schouwburg in Middelburg. With 280 participants from government, education, and business, the venue was packed. The afternoon provided inspiration, concrete examples, and clear insights into what is needed to advance AI in Zeeland.
Premiere of AI film series showcases practical applications
One of the highlights was the premiere of the first episode of the Zeeland AI film series, produced by Boldr Digital Agency. The series highlights how organizations in Zeeland are already applying AI and what steps they can take next.
The series offers relatable real-world examples and demonstrates what AI means for employees: from opportunities to key considerations. The six-part series will be released weekly at 9:00 AM starting Wednesday, March 25, 2026, on the YouTube channel of Provincie Zeeland.
Teaser AI-serie
Mediaspeler
- Play
- Restart
- Back
- Next
- Volume
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- Show subtitles
- Preferences
- Go full screen
- 0:00 / 0:00
- Speed: 1x
- Stopped
AI hub research highlights need for collaboration
During the event, the research into a potential AI hub in Zeeland, conducted by Mischa Beckers (HZ University of Applied Sciences) and Rutger van der Male (Impuls Zeeland), was presented to Deputy Johan Aalberts. The study reveals that while many organizations recognize the importance of AI, they are still searching for effective ways to implement it.
The key findings include:
- AI is becoming increasingly important for organizations
- Knowledge and application remain fragmented
- Many organizations need practical support
- Collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential
- An AI hub could help organize and accelerate these efforts
The exploration of *The State of AI in Zeeland*, presented by Jeroen van de Merwe (Scalda), also underscored the many opportunities available, while emphasizing that organizations must take action now to prepare for the future.
PDF bestand AI Hub Zeeland - eindrapport.pdf1.13 MBdownload
Inspiring contributions and open discussion
The afternoon was hosted by chairperson Amara Kwekkeboom. Keynote speaker Jan Scheele guided attendees through the rapid developments in AI and other technologies, highlighting the significant impact and stressing the importance of taking action now. At the same time, he cautioned that overly hasty adoption could lead to mistakes and emphasized the need for critical and vigilant engagement.
In the panel discussion, Mischa Beckers (HZ University of Applied Sciences), Bas Groothedde (Verticallm.ai), Femke van Gelder (young professional), and Jan Scheele shared their experiences and stressed the importance of collaboration, continuous learning, and responsible AI use.
Momentum to move forward
The event demonstrated that AI is now an integral part of Zeeland’s landscape. The strong turnout and active participation reflect organizations’ commitment to advancing AI initiatives.
With the insights from the research and the energy in the room, a solid foundation has been laid for next steps, including further exploration of an AI hub and strengthening regional collaboration.