North Holland's Strategic Tech Policy to Drive Innovation in 2025
Haarlem, Friday, 14 November 2025.
The Netherlands launches the National Technology Strategy to enhance economic growth through key technologies like quantum software and cybersecurity, with a focus on regional collaboration led by ROM InWest.
Introduction to North Holland’s Technology Strategy
As part of the broader National Technology Strategy (NTS) launched by the Netherlands in January 2024, North Holland is focusing its efforts on regional innovation to enhance the nation’s competitive edge. The NTS identifies ten key technologies crucial for future economic prosperity, including quantum software, regenerative medicine, and cybersecurity. This initiative aims to translate these technologies into tangible economic benefits through regional collaboration, spearheaded by organizations like ROM InWest [1].
Regional Collaboration and Key Players
ROM InWest, a pivotal player in this initiative, is tasked with creating a Regional Strengthening Plan. This plan aims to showcase North Holland’s strengths and identify steps to leverage them effectively. Eric van Heerwaarden and Linze Rijswijk from ROM InWest are leading this effort, emphasizing the importance of aligning the national strategy with regional capabilities to ensure that the abstract concepts of the NTS are grounded in practical applications [1][2].
Focus on Key Technologies
North Holland is particularly strong in AI in healthcare and biotechnology, areas that the region plans to capitalize on. The combination of strong knowledge institutions, innovative healthcare organizations, and a growing number of AI startups positions North Holland as a frontrunner in AI healthcare applications. However, challenges remain in commercializing biotechnology innovations, despite having strong players such as Sanquin and Amsterdam UMC [1].
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
While North Holland is internationally recognized for its cybersecurity capabilities, the region lacks a comprehensive policy to support this sector. The NTS aims to address this by providing a framework for regions to develop policies that enhance technological autonomy. This is crucial in a world where geopolitics, defense, and energy supply are increasingly linked to digital technology. Thus, North Holland’s role in this landscape is both pivotal and challenging [1][2].