Dutch Design Foundation and Defense Join Forces for Community Innovation
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 9 September 2025.
The Dutch Design Foundation collaborates with the Ministry of Defense on Co/Lab, engaging communities to address societal challenges through innovative solutions, enhancing safety and fostering a culture of innovation.
Innovative Collaboration for National Safety
On 8 September 2025, the Dutch Design Foundation (DDF) initiated a groundbreaking Co/Lab project in collaboration with the Dutch Ministry of Defense. This initiative marks a strategic effort to harness community innovation in addressing national safety challenges. The project engages local communities, tapping into the unutilized innovation potential of society to address security threats facing the Netherlands. Through this collaboration, the foundation aims to foster a culture of innovation that aligns closely with societal needs and enhances public safety [1].
Community Engagement and Strategic Goals
The Co/Lab initiative is driven by the Directorate of Knowledge & Innovation (DKI) of the Ministry of Defense, which aims to bridge the gap between the ministry and various knowledge institutions, societal parties, and innovative companies. By involving creative thinkers, organizations, and concerned citizens, the initiative seeks to cultivate innovative ideas that contribute significantly to national safety. The project highlights the importance of community involvement in defense innovation, emphasizing that real societal change can be achieved through a collaborative and design-driven approach [1].
Designing for a Safer Future
Muzus, a design studio based in Delft, plays a crucial role in this initiative by exploring how citizens can contribute to security challenges without requiring formal roles or contracts with the Ministry of Defense. During the Dutch Design Week 2025, Muzus will present a series of experiments at the Designing Society exhibition, showcasing their efforts in facilitating public dialogue on ownership, involvement, and action perspectives in defense matters. The studio emphasizes the need for innovative thinking and collaboration to drive meaningful long-term changes that enhance national safety [1].
The Role of Design in National Defense
The collaboration between the Dutch Design Foundation and the Ministry of Defense underscores the potential of design thinking in addressing complex security issues. By making the unknown conceivable and tangible, the project aims to engage the broader society in co-creating solutions that are both innovative and practical. As noted by Neele Kistemaker, founder of Muzus, the project seeks to make security a shared responsibility, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and involvement among citizens [1].