The Wennink Report is advice from former ASML CEO Peter Wennink to the government. The report states that the Netherlands must invest heavily in the coming years, approximately €151 to €187 billion, to secure our prosperity, jobs, and services.
Recognition for Gelderland
The world population is growing, people live longer, and pressure on resources is increasing. Gelderland has a unique knowledge position thanks to Wageningen University & Research (WUR) and the Foodvalley network of young companies, research centers, and international players. This knowledge is not only needed for a more sustainable food chain but also for the earning capacity (the amount of money a person or company will earn in the future) of our country. Innovations in the food industry create jobs, export income, and more independence. It also contributes to healthier food for vulnerable groups. Additionally, our knowledge and business activity around chips (for example, for laptops and phones) in Nijmegen and Arnhem are world-class and indispensable for the Netherlands.
An Indispensable Link
In his proposals, Wennink gives a prominent place to the importance of food innovations and biotechnology, alongside the chip industry. He sees that the role of the Foodvalley around Wageningen is of great importance to the Netherlands. The Arnhem/Nijmegen region is also an indispensable link in chip production. Maintaining this position requires significant funding. I am pleased with this recognition for Gelderland. Our knowledge is worth gold. But this is just the beginning: now it is up to politics to translate these advices into a concrete approach.
Deputy of the Province of Gelderland
Call to the Government
The report by Peter Wennink emphasizes that the Netherlands must invest purposefully in innovation, talent, and technology. Additionally, the conditions must be created to retain companies and production in the Netherlands. This includes solutions for grid congestion (an overloaded power grid), permitting, and locations for companies to establish or expand.
The Gelderland sectors of food, chips, and energy are clearly mentioned in the report. With these sectors, Gelderland contributes to the national earning capacity, talent development, and the strategic resilience of the Netherlands.
