The Province of North Brabant reserves €8 million to support innovative companies developing technology for digital and physical security. The plans are set out in the Mission Security Action Plan.
Brabant has a strong high-tech sector, a smart manufacturing industry, and leading knowledge institutions. Together they can devise solutions for growing security challenges in a changing geopolitical context. Think of dependence on technology from countries outside Europe and cyberattacks.
With an action plan focused on security, we build a stronger Europe together with companies, knowledge institutions, and governments.
Martijn van Gruijthuijsen, Deputy of Economy, Knowledge and Talent Development
In Brabant, we believe innovative technology can make a difference. For our security, economy, and strategic autonomy, says Martijn van Gruijthuijsen, Deputy of Economy, Knowledge and Talent Development. With an action plan focused on security, we build a stronger Europe together with companies, knowledge institutions, and governments.
Mission Security Action Plan
The Mission Security Action Plan focuses on 2 lines of action:
- developing and scaling technological innovations
- strengthening ecosystems and collaborations within Brabant
Brabant consciously chooses smart and future-oriented technology, such as sensors, autonomous systems, smart materials, cybersecurity, and photonics. These are innovations that are not large-scale and industrial but scalable and applicable in daily life and for defense. Photonics is technology that uses light to transmit or measure information. Think of fiber optics, sensors, and optical chips.
Dual-use
These technologies can be used both civilly and militarily, which we call dual-use. This dual application creates extra opportunities for innovation, economic growth, international cooperation, and thus societal added value. At the same time, it contributes to the strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and Europe.
Collaboration with companies, governments, and knowledge institutions
Part of the action plan is the continuation of cooperation with ministries such as Economic Affairs and Defense, police and intelligence organizations, and research institutions like TNO. Strategic collaborations are also set up with various companies: all aimed at strengthening Brabants innovation power, from Southeast to West Brabant.
To quickly respond to technological and geopolitical developments, the province chooses an adaptive approach. The €8 million is therefore not spent immediately but reserved to enable quick action. Concrete projects within the action plan will later be separately submitted to the Provincial Executive for decision-making.
