by THOLEditor | Dec 2, 2025 | Beyond The Hague, Business, Economy, News
1.7 million euros for innovation, business park and connection between education and the labor market
A city broker helps companies find suitable locations in the Delft Innovation District or elsewhere in the region. An immersive experience lab where port employees can practice safely loading and unloading hazardous materials in a simulated VR environment. These are two examples of seven projects to which the Rotterdam The Hague Metropolitan Region (MRDH) awarded grants this month. The investment totals €1.7 million.
The goal is to create jobs and strengthen the region’s appeal. This requires economic and technological innovation. The 21 municipalities, as the Rotterdam The Hague Metropolitan Region, are collaborating intensively with knowledge institutions and businesses. This will create a sustainable, prosperous, and attractive region for residents and businesses.
Saskia Bruines, chair of the MRDH Economic Business Climate Executive Committee: “We can only strengthen the regional economy through intensive collaboration. Together, we can increase job opportunities, provide entrepreneurs with more space, and make optimal use of scarce physical space. That’s why we’re joining forces with 21 municipalities and making this investment as a Metropolitan Region. This will support a vibrant economy for the benefit of everyone who lives, works, and enjoys recreation here.”
Project contributions
Improving the connection between education and the labor market
Regional Innovation Hub for Immersive Technology in Rotterdam (450,195 euros)
This innovation hub in Katoenhuis, in Rotterdam’s Merwe-Vierhavens area (M4H), forms the heart of the regional Immersive Tech ecosystem. It serves as a central meeting place for educational institutions, businesses, knowledge partners, and government agencies active in the field of Immersive Tech. With this, the MRDH is taking an important step towards a better qualified and educated workforce in the region and improving the connection between education and the labor market.
Innovation and SMEs
Innovation hub Visafslag Scheveningen in The Hague (90,000 euros)
In the port of Scheveningen (formerly the Visafslag), a 2,000 m² development space will become available in early 2026 for educational institutions and businesses in the blue economy. With this contribution, the involved parties will begin exploring the possibilities of creating a practical space, a living lab, for water-related applications.
Quantum Ecosystem South Holland (225,000 euros)
The quantum ecosystem in South Holland, with Quantum Delft as an international hotspot, will continue in 2026-2028. After a successful initial phase, hubs in Leiden and Delft have intensified their collaboration and two quantum communication networks have been established. The new phase focuses on supporting startups, connecting with end users, attracting talent, and strengthening connections with national initiatives like Quantum NL.
Delft Innovation District (398,955 euros)
The Delft Innovation District combines the TU Delft Campus, Schieoevers, and Delftechpark into a dynamic area with knowledge institutions, field labs, startups, and scale-ups. Delft serves as an incubator for companies contributing to transitions in energy, mobility, digitalization, and sustainability. With the Delft Innovation District project – more broadly connected to the region – Delft is working on three pillars: connecting growing companies with locations in the metropolitan region through the deployment of a city broker; redeveloping business parks into future-proof work locations for innovative manufacturing; and strengthening communities through networking activities and a digital platform.
Space for work
The MRDH is investing in three projects that contribute to a smarter and more sustainable use of existing industrial estates.
Better Utilization of Industrial Estates in East Barendrecht (200,000 euros)
The municipality of Barendrecht is working to create a future-proof business park in Barendrecht-Oost. The project focuses on improved spatial utilization, sustainability, and stronger connections with the surrounding area, including the development of the Stationstuinen and Nieuw-Reijerwaard areas. The MRDH grant will enable the development of a program and action plan to strengthen the site within the Dutch Fresh Port cluster.
Space for Direction – Vlaardingen (186,074 euros)
In Vlaardingen, the municipality is using leasehold as a means to better utilize industrial estates and improve spatial quality. A three-year pilot program at three industrial estates in Vlaardingen is investigating how leasehold conditions, data, and enforcement contribute to improved spatial utilization. The MRDH supports this initiative because it contributes to more efficient use of industrial estates and a more attractive business climate.
Exploration of the Working Landscape – Nissewaard (155,634 euros)
In Nissewaard, the municipality is exploring how it can provide space for businesses seeking to grow or establish themselves in the region. This project addresses the growing demand for commercial space on the Left Bank of the Meuse.
Photo: SenseGlove production in Katoenhuis – credit Boudewijn Bollmann.
More information: https://mrdh.nl/power-partnership-0
by THOLEditor | Nov 18, 2025 | Arts & Entertainment, Business, Highlighted Events
Female Ventures Delft/The Hague announces the launch of “Made by Her & Together”, an evening dedicated to amplifying the voices, talent, and ambition of women makers and small business owners. The event will take place on Thursday, 18 December 2025, from 18:00 to 21:00 at The American Women’s Club (Bisschopstraat 5, 2596 XH Den Haag) in The Hague.
The evening combines a curated Maker’s Market, short “Meet the Maker” moments, and a panel discussion focused on the realities of starting and growing a small creative business. The goal is to provide visibility, connection, and a supportive platform for emerging women-led ventures.
10-15 selected businesses will showcase their work (from handmade goods to circular products, artisanal food, and other small-scale creations), share their stories, and connect with fellow entrepreneurs and visitors. A panel conversation will explore the realities of building a creative enterprise, scaling sustainably, and fostering collaboration. Women makers, food creators, and small business owners can still apply to join the market until November 21.
“Made by Her & Together is about giving women the space to show their work, tell their stories, and feel seen,” says Female Ventures Delft/The Hague City Director Kristin Unger. “At Female Ventures, we inspire, learn, and connect. And this event brings that mission to life. We want every woman, whether she is building a business, shaping a career inside an organization, or exploring a new creative path, to feel encouraged to take her next step with confidence.”
Visitors can expect an evening of creativity, stories, and community and can join a raffle featuring items donated by the participating makers. Tickets (5€) are available via Eventbrite.
Female Ventures is continuously looking for local sponsors, venue partners, and collaborators who want to support women’s personal and professional development.
About Female Ventures
Female Ventures is a Netherlands-based non-profit organization (founded in 2016) dedicated to advancing female leadership and entrepreneurship in corporates, SMEs, and start-ups. We build a community where women support each other to unlock their full potential and grow each other toward their goals. We are active in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Eindhoven, and Delft/The Hague. We also have a national Career Vitality Mentor Program.
by THOLEditor | Nov 3, 2025 | Business, News
The European Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) has been in force since 2024 and will be fully implemented from 2026. Yet, according to new research by the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce (KVK), most Dutch entrepreneurs remain largely unprepared. Half of all business owners are unaware of the legislation, only 7% are well-informed, and just a few percent have taken concrete steps to comply.
Limited awareness, even among larger SMEs
Medium-sized SMEs (with 10 or more employees) are the most aware of the upcoming changes: 44% expect the AI Act to affect their business operations, compared to 22% of smaller SMEs. However, even in this group, few have taken any action. In total, only about 2–3% of entrepreneurs are actively preparing, and more than half say they have no plans to do so.
A gap between AI use and understanding
While entrepreneurs are increasingly discovering AI tools in practice, their knowledge of the related legal requirements lags behind. Three in ten are already using applications such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot — a figure that rises to 46% in the business services sector. One in four entrepreneurs expect generative AI to become important for their company, and among medium-sized businesses, that figure is as high as 50%. Entrepreneurs who are familiar with the AI Act are also more likely to recognise AI’s strategic importance.
Uncertainty and confusion remain high
Four in ten entrepreneurs are unsure whether the AI Act even applies to their business. Many, particularly self-employed professionals (zzp’ers), say they do not know where to start. This uncertainty reflects the overall lack of awareness and clarity about how the legislation will impact different sectors.
What the AI Act requires
The AI Act classifies applications into four risk levels: minimal, limited, high, and unacceptable. The higher the risk, the stricter the requirements. High-risk systems — for example in healthcare, education, finance, or security — must meet strict standards for transparency, data quality, documentation, and human oversight.
Importantly, not only developers but also users of AI systems are responsible for correct and lawful use. They must determine whether a system falls under the law, make clear agreements with suppliers, be transparent with customers (for instance, that a chatbot is not human), and ensure staff receive proper training. Some requirements will take effect gradually from 2025, with full enforcement in 2026.
AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot
For most self-employed professionals and SMEs using generative AI tools, the risks are considered limited. This means lighter obligations, primarily around transparency. However, entrepreneurs remain fully responsible for how AI is used — and regulators can intervene if misuse or unsafe practices occur.
Risks for all businesses, big or small
Robert Bakker, adviser at KVK, explains: “More and more entrepreneurs are using AI tools, often without a clear understanding of their capabilities or limitations. The results can be outdated, inaccurate, or even discriminatory. It doesn’t surprise me that most business owners don’t yet know much about the AI Act, but this lack of awareness does carry risks — even for small companies. Unsafe use can lead to legal problems, fines, or reputational damage. KVK informs and advises entrepreneurs on these topics.”
The KVK will further explore the topic during its Entrepreneur Days (KVK Ondernemersdagen) on 14 and 15 November, with a series of inspiration sessions about the responsible use of AI.
About the research
The findings come from the KVK Omnibus Survey, June 2025 edition. A total of 651 entrepreneurs — including both self-employed professionals and SMEs — completed an online questionnaire on various business topics.
Text: KVK
https://www.kvk.nl
Translation & Adaptation: The Hague Online
by Renee | Oct 30, 2025 | Business, Features
Today, ImpactCity brought together around 1,500 international impact makers in The Hague for the tenth edition of ImpactFest. The annual event attracts start-ups, scale-ups, investors, knowledge institutes, policymakers, and other passionate individuals who are working towards a sustainable, inclusive, and fair economy. At the Fokker Terminal, they shared knowledge and built networks to tackle global challenges. A total of €240,000 in prize money was awarded to entrepreneurs.
Ten leading The Hague-based entrepreneurs in the spotlight
The tenth edition of ImpactFest coincides with the ten-year anniversary of ImpactCity, the Municipality of The Hague’s programme supporting entrepreneurs who make a social and sustainable impact. To mark this milestone, ImpactCity launched a campaign celebrating the real impact makers: the local entrepreneurs themselves.
From over 200 active impact-driven companies in The Hague, ImpactCity selected ten exemplary entrepreneurs who have made a difference both within and beyond the city: Brute Bonen, Feelou, MediMaatjes, Naïf, North Sea Farmers, Seepje, Solar Monkey, The Young Digitals, Weco, and Yespers. Their stories will appear on large posters throughout the city in the coming weeks and are featured in the exhibition 10 years of ImpactCity at City Hall until 27 November.
Three emerging innovative entrepreneurs from The Hague
During ImpactFest, the winners of the annual The Hague Innovators Awards were also announced — an initiative that supports local entrepreneurs tackling social challenges. The winner of the Best Innovator prize, worth €15,000, is Droppie, a recycling shop. The Future Innovator award, worth €5,000, went to Swarmed, an initiative promoting sustainable beekeeping. FarmBizAfrica, a knowledge network for farmers in Africa, won the Audience Award of €2,500.
Funding opportunities for impact-driven businesses
In addition to The Hague Innovators Awards, the impact funds of Rabobank and Pels Rijcken also presented financial awards. In total, more than €240,000 was distributed among innovative entrepreneurs offering solutions to social challenges.
This year saw a record number of investors attend the event, thanks to a collaboration with the Netherlands Advisory Board on Impact Investing, which brought a network of more than 100 investors. Through matchmaking, speed dating, and pitch sessions, capital and innovation were brought together to create new collaborations and growth opportunities.
About ImpactCity and ImpactFest
ImpactCity is one of Europe’s leading ecosystems for organisations that combine doing good and doing business. With this programme, the Municipality of The Hague supports entrepreneurs and other impact makers in developing and scaling their innovative solutions.
ImpactFest, launched in 2016 as an annual event, provides a festival-style setting where members of the ImpactCity ecosystem can connect. It has since grown into an international must-attend event in the impact community.
This year’s edition was organised by ImpactCity in collaboration with the Municipality of The Hague, Obsession, and Bureau Visueel, and was made possible by the Province of South Holland, Rabobank, Stichting DOEN, Unknown Group, RVO, Pels Rijcken, and Stichting SOMI.
Text: Impact City
Image & Translation: The Hague Online
by THOLEditor | Oct 20, 2025 | Business, Education, Highlighted Events
“Re-imagining Education in the Age of AI”
Will our system of education need to be redesigned now that AI tools are in every student’s pocket? This event brings together educators, innovators, and leaders for a lively debate between innovative and traditional approaches; assessments, study, and the role of AI in the classroom. Finish the evening with savory pies, wine, and the chance to network with members of the business and academic community.
AI generative tools have arrived, and students are already using them widely for assignments and learning. This reality raises urgent questions: should schools ban and contain AI, or embrace it and redesign the way we teach and assess? At this Pie & AI, learn and participate as speakers present contrasting perspectives; from defenders of the traditional model who argue for limits, to innovators who are testing new approaches for students with AI in mind.
Thursday 27 November 2025, 17:00 – 19:00
The Hague University of Applied Sciences
Register for your free ticket
by Renee | Oct 13, 2025 | Business, Highlighted Events
This year marks the 5-year anniversary of HSiF, and we are celebrating it with a special edition.
Join us on 10th of December for an evening where fresh ideas take the stage and where you, as part of the audience, play a key role in the action!
🎟️For the Audience
Your ticket is free, and you’re not just there to watch!
As part of the audience, you will:
•Vote for your favourite pitch and help decide who wins the First Fans Prize (€250)
•Shape which idea receives funding
•Connect with aspiring founders, investors, and industry professionals
💡For the Pitchers
Ready to take the next step as an entrepreneur? This is your moment to pitch.
•Selected founders will present their ideas in front of investors, founders, and industry experts, competing for three amazing prizes 🏆:
Grow Prize – €1,000 (jury selected)
Seed Prize – €500 (jury selected)
First Fans Prize – €250 (audience selected)
•All winners will also gain access to a unique post-event coaching programme, working closely with mentors to develop and scale their business.
📍The Social Hub, The Hague – Wintergarden Room
🗓 10 December 2025 | 18:00 – 21:00
👉 Pitchers: Sign up here: https://lnkd.in/e3eJwuyj (link found on our website)
🎟 Audience tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-hague-student-investment-fund-pitch-event-5-year-anniversary-edition-tickets-1841472456689
ℹ️More information: https://lnkd.in/eN6qkFc2
A special thank you to Port Sight Tax, Starters Station, and the Center for Entrepreneurs (The Hague University of Applied Sciences) for making this event possible.
Together, we aim to support and empower the next generation of founders!
