New knowledge does not automatically lead to application. In Europe, and certainly in the Netherlands, the gap between knowledge and application is so wide that it is referred to as an innovation paradox: our internationally highly regarded scientific publications do not lead to sufficient innovation.
Specifically, innovation gains in the region
An important key to solving this paradox can be found in regional innovation ecosystems. Examples include semiconductors in Eindhoven, food in Wageningen, water management in Leeuwarden, and biotechnology in Leiden. There, knowledge institutions, companies, entrepreneurs, and governments collaborate intensively on innovation as well as a favorable investment and business climate.
In the region, innovation becomes concrete. Start-ups and scale-ups work closely with researchers on campuses there. And researchers and the business community find each other. This includes large companies, but certainly also small and medium-sized enterprises, which account for the majority of Dutch employment and gross national product. It is precisely in the region, therefore, that innovation gains can be achieved. The new cabinet also realizes this and wants to invest in regional innovation ecosystems.
Division of roles
What, then, is the division of roles among the various players in the chain from knowledge to application? And what is needed to increase the productivity and dynamics of regional knowledge and innovation ecosystems?Based on national and international success stories, we will discuss the value of regional ecosystems. By participating in this symposium, you also actively contribute to the insights the council is gathering for our advice currently being prepared on valorization and ecosystems.
When and where
Date: 8 October 2026
Time: 2:30 am - 5:30 pm
Location: NEMO, Oosterdok 2 Amsterdam
More information and registration
For more information and to register, please visit the AWTI website: