South Holland Boosts Innovation with Regional Network Subsidy
South Holland, Thursday, 5 September 2024.
South Holland’s new subsidy aims to strengthen regional innovation networks, fostering collaboration between companies, knowledge institutions, and governments. The initiative, part of the province’s transition to a ‘next economy’, prioritizes sectors like Smart Industry and Cyber Security, with a focus on seaweed and aquatic crops for 2024.
Strategic Focus Areas
The RNIZ subsidy is designed to invigorate various strategic sectors that are pivotal to South Holland’s economic landscape. Among these, Smart Industry stands out as a key focus area. This sector aims to create synergies between high-tech industries and other sectors facing transformation challenges. By facilitating crossovers, the province hopes to bolster its industrial capacity and innovation potential.
Cyber Security and Port Transformation
Another critical area is Cyber Security, where South Holland, particularly The Hague, has emerged as a European leader. The Netherlands Security cluster is gaining prominence, with strong growth potential in the coming years. Alongside this, the ‘Haven in transitie’ initiative focuses on the port industrial complex, which faces significant challenges in sustainability and digitalization. These transformations are essential for maintaining the port’s competitive edge and attracting new businesses.
Life Sciences and Feeding Megacities
Life Sciences & Health is another sector earmarked for development, with particular emphasis on regenerative medicine through initiatives like RegMed XB. Additionally, the province is preparing for a future with a global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050. The ‘Feeding the megacities’ initiative leverages the expertise of Westland to address global food security challenges, positioning South Holland as a knowledge exporter in this domain.
2024 Priorities and Funding
For 2024, the subsidy scheme prioritizes Industrial Biotechnology, with a special focus on seaweed and other aquatic crops. These crops are seen as sustainable solutions to global challenges, including food security and environmental sustainability. The RNIZ subsidy can cover up to 50% of the total eligible costs, emphasizing collaboration among companies, knowledge institutions, and governments. Applications will be accepted from 1 October 2024 to 31 December 2024, with priority given to projects that align with these thematic areas.
Key Network Organizations
Several network organizations are set to benefit from this subsidy, including Blue City, Circulair West, and Clean Tech Delta. These organizations play a crucial role in fostering innovation and sustainability within their respective sectors. By supporting these networks, the province aims to create a robust ecosystem that drives economic growth and technological advancements.