Dutch Scientists Call for Billions in Innovation Investment
Amsterdam, Friday, 31 October 2025.
The Netherlands’ scientific community urges the new cabinet to inject billions into education, research, and innovation to prevent declines in funding and bolster economic growth.
Introduction to the Appeal
The call for increased investment in education, research, and innovation comes at a critical juncture for the Netherlands. The scientific community, represented by the Kenniscoalitie—a coalition including universities, research institutions, and employers—has urged the incoming government to prioritize these areas in its fiscal agenda. The coalition advocates for an additional €2 billion in public investment in 2026, escalating to €3.5 billion by 2029. They warn that without these funds, Dutch innovation could fall behind its European counterparts [1].
The Stakes for Dutch Innovation
The Netherlands currently spends 2.27% of its GDP on research and development (R&D), but there are concerns this is insufficient to maintain a competitive edge globally [2]. The Kenniscoalitie highlights the importance of stable funding to prevent a decline in expenditures on knowledge and innovation, which are crucial for economic growth and competitiveness. They argue that without increased investment, the country risks falling behind nations like China and the USA, which are rapidly advancing in these fields [1][3].
Current Political Climate
Recent budget cuts in higher education have sparked dissatisfaction among political parties such as D66, CDA, and JA21. These parties emphasize the need for robust investment in research and innovation, particularly in light of upcoming elections where these topics have gained traction. Marcel Levi, the chair of the Kenniscoalitie, has noted that during pre-election discussions, there were promising signs that the importance of knowledge and innovation is being recognized [1][3].
A Broader Perspective on R&D Investment
The debate on R&D funding is not isolated to the Netherlands. Across Europe, countries are grappling with how to best allocate resources to foster innovation and technological advancement. The European Commission has adopted frameworks such as the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) to guide investment decisions and ensure that funds are used effectively across different stages of innovation [4]. The emphasis is on creating a sustainable ecosystem where start-ups can thrive and contribute to the broader economic landscape [5].