Zuid-Holland Seeks Stronger Government-Business Partnerships to Boost Regional Economy
The Hague, Friday, 2 January 2026.
Regional leaders call for deeper collaboration between government, businesses, and research institutions as the key to unlocking Zuid-Holland’s economic potential. The province’s diversity creates both opportunities and challenges, with companies shouldering 64% of climate investments while fragmented programs hinder coordination. Experts advocate for sustainable partnerships and long-term planning to transform the region into a high-tech economic powerhouse by 2050.
Business Investment Drives Climate Transition
The scale of private sector commitment to Zuid-Holland’s economic transformation becomes clear when examining investment patterns. Companies are shouldering the majority of climate-related investments, taking responsibility for 64 percent of such expenditures according to Jean-Christophe Spapens from the Province of Zuid-Holland [1]. This substantial private sector contribution reflects the region’s recognition that businesses must lead the charge in transitioning to a sustainable economy. The investment responsibility distribution shows that while companies provide 2 percent of the desired 3 percent of research and development expenditures, government, education, and knowledge institutions are expected to contribute the remaining 1 percent [1]. This financial framework underscores the critical importance of creating robust partnerships that can sustain long-term economic planning and innovation initiatives.
Fragmented Programs Hinder Regional Coordination
Despite Zuid-Holland’s economic potential, structural challenges within government operations are creating barriers to effective collaboration. Professor Sarah Giest from Leiden University identifies a fundamental problem in the region’s approach to economic governance, noting that “there are many different initiatives when it comes to governing economic programs in the province. All those smaller programs have their own financing or subsidy pot. At the same time you have a government that works in administrative silos – municipality-province-ministries – that have all kinds of fragmented programs. There is a lack of real connections and collaborations” [1]. This fragmentation affects the province’s ability to leverage its diversity as a strength rather than allowing it to become a weakness. Jean-Christophe Spapens acknowledges this challenge, stating that “Zuid-Holland’s diversity is our strength and Achilles’ heel at the same time” [1]. The province often requires multiple ministries to develop comprehensive solutions, highlighting the need for broader integral national programs that coordinate departmental efforts.
Successful Collaboration Models Emerge
Despite systemic challenges, Zuid-Holland has demonstrated that effective partnerships can produce tangible results when properly structured and supported. The Human Capital Agenda Zuid-Holland, cited by Spapens as a successful program, forms part of the broader Groeiagenda Zuid-Holland, which represents an integral investment strategy focused on economy, energy, housing, and human capital [1]. The Vernieuwersnetwerk Natuurlijke Reststromen, evaluated by research institute DRIFT in October 2025, provides another compelling example of successful collaborative approaches [2]. This network, focused on natural waste streams, has proven effective in advancing circular economy initiatives, with the province aiming to become fully circular by 2050 [2]. The evaluation revealed that such innovation networks serve as important engines for change, delivering concrete results while strengthening learning and collaboration between entrepreneurs, knowledge institutions, and governments [2]. The success stems from targeted choices, professional guidance, and trust-based cooperation rather than occurring spontaneously.
Long-term Vision Requires Sustained Political Commitment
The transition to a high-tech economy that delivers greater added value and contributes to strategic autonomy requires sustained political commitment beyond electoral cycles [1]. Giest advocates for expanding collaboration beyond the traditional triple helix model, proposing “a quadruple helix, in which civil society – the residents – also play a role” [1]. This broader approach would incorporate Living Labs and collaborative partnerships that engage citizens directly in economic development initiatives. The challenge lies in maintaining focus on long-term goals while converting them into actionable strategies. As Spapens explains, “The Groeiagenda Zuid-Holland provides that focus on the long term. The continuous challenge is to maintain this and convert it into action” [1]. Giest emphasizes that successful implementation requires “a mix of visibility, certainty and a goal that everyone can participate in and support,” necessitating “a clear long-term vision from the province, including an investment agenda that links high-tech development to social needs such as affordable housing and education” [1]. This comprehensive approach recognizes that economic transformation must address broader societal challenges to maintain public support and achieve sustainable growth.