Dutch Government Launches Strategy to Boost Innovation Amid Lagging Investments
Amsterdam, Monday, 14 July 2025.
The Dutch government unveiled a nine-point plan to enhance innovation, aiming for 3% GDP investment in R&D by 2030. Currently, the Netherlands invests only 2.2%.
Current State of R&D Investments
As of 2025, the Netherlands is investing 2.2% of its GDP in research and development, a figure that pales in comparison to leading countries in the field such as Germany and Sweden, which invest 3.1% and 3.6% respectively. This investment trajectory, if left unchecked, is projected to decline to 2% without intervention [1].
The 3% R&D Action Plan
Launched on 11 July 2025, the Dutch government’s ambitious nine-point plan aims to escalate research and development funding to 3% of GDP by 2030, a goal requiring a substantial €14.9 billion from both public and private sectors. Two-thirds of the funds are expected to come from the private sector, while one-third will be provided by public institutions [1][3].
Strategic Measures for Implementation
Key initiatives include the establishment of a National Agency for Disruptive Innovation, which will focus on acquiring and implementing groundbreaking technologies. Additionally, the government aims to bolster R&D scale-ups by mobilizing €3 billion and enhancing technical talent through programs like the Microchip Talent Strengthening Plan [3].
Fostering Knowledge-Based Companies
Minister Karremans emphasizes the necessity for more effective valorisation of scientific knowledge into market-ready products. This involves expanding experimental spaces for technological startups and promoting collaborations between public and private entities to convert innovative ideas into successful businesses [1][3].
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite being ranked third as an innovation leader in the EU due to strong science, educational systems, and public-private partnerships, the Netherlands struggles with investment in innovation, ranking only ninth in the EU [2]. This initiative is a strategic attempt to overcome such barriers and leverage the country’s foundational strengths in science and innovation [2].