More than two-thirds of the Dutch innovative manufacturing industry is located in these provinces. Here, machines, components, electronics, and medical devices are designed and produced.
We are the engine of the innovative manufacturing industry. But if we do not make clear choices now, the Netherlands will lose its lead.
According to Martijn van Gruijthuijsen, deputy of Brabant.
The provinces want to invest together in smart technology
In Gelderland, North Brabant and Overijssel, many companies are leading in new technologies such as chips, photonics (light technology) and quantum technology. This allows very precise measuring, calculating and communicating. Food technology combines science and technology to make our food better and safer. These provinces are also strong in medical devices, health and food technology. Companies here not only make products but also components and machines for sectors such as construction, agriculture and healthcare. Food technology combines science and technology to make our food better and safer. Many of these products are exported. This keeps the Netherlands strong in the global market.
With knowledge, networks and experience we tackle challenges
The Netherlands faces major problems, such as limited space, pressure on the electricity grid, vulnerable digital systems and a shortage of technical personnel. Investors often hesitate to take risks, making it difficult for new projects to get funding. The 3 provinces have knowledge, networks and experience to solve these problems smartly.
Van Gruijthuijsen:
The national government only needs to join in.
No time to lose
The provinces ask the national government to create a clear agenda together for these technologies. That means: making choices and executing projects. This aligns with plans from Europe and the Netherlands, such as the National Technology Strategy and expert advice. Europe called for acceleration a year ago, but little has happened.
Erwin Hoogland, deputy of Overijssel, says:
Waiting is not an option. Otherwise, the Netherlands will lose its technological advantage. Our provinces are the heart of the manufacturing industry, and that is important for all of Europe.
Engine of the manufacturing industry
Brabant excels in high-tech system development, machine construction and photonics. Overijssel stands out in medical technology. Gelderland leads in food technology, chip production and semiconductors. Together, the provinces strengthen each other. They already collaborate in PhotonDelta, a cooperation around photonics. Investments have grown this into an international network of companies and knowledge institutions.
Examples of Gelderland manufacturing industry
In Gelderland, we have unique experts in food technology around Wageningen and Food Valley. We also have much knowledge in the semiconductor industry, such as making chips and packaging these chips. This is done in Nijmegen and with the innovation network ‘Lifeport’ in the Arnhem-Nijmegen region.
Gelderland has unique knowledge for the economy of the future
Companies and knowledge institutions are indispensable for jobs and Europe’s future. In Gelderland, we have unique knowledge about food technology and chips. Until 2030, we will train 6,000 people for work in the chip industry. This is the economy of the future.
Deputy of Gelderland
European cooperation
The provinces also support the ChipNL program and collaborate with other European regions in ESRA, a network for the semiconductor sector. This sector designs, produces and sells semiconductors, such as microchips. These are indispensable for modern electronics such as computers, smartphones and cars. By investing in innovation and cooperation, these provinces are frontrunners in the Netherlands and important for Europe.
