MRDH Invests in Innovation to Transform Dutch Public Transport
Rotterdam, Tuesday, 15 July 2025.
MRDH intensifies its investment in the InnOVatieroute program, aiming to enhance public transport through innovation, reduce pollution, and meet climate goals by partnering with companies like HTM and RET.
Strategic Alliances in Dutch Transportation
The Metropolitan Region of Rotterdam-The Hague (MRDH) continues to champion innovation by investing in the InnOVatieroute, an initiative designed to make public transport more appealing and efficient. This program partners with public transport companies such as HTM, RET, and EBS, to leverage novel solutions aimed at enhancing traveler experience and advancing environmental goals [1].
Objectives and Implementation
InnOVatieroute’s primary objective is to stimulate innovative capabilities in the regional public transportation sector. By encouraging startups and established businesses within and outside the public transport sector to contribute innovative ideas, the program seeks to implement smart technologies that can sustainably transform the way public transportation operates. These initiatives range from developing more sustainable transport solutions to optimizing operational efficiencies [1].
Leadership Insight
Jeffrey Keus, a high-ranking official within the MRDH, underscores the necessity of courageous innovation that often requires a willingness to experiment beyond traditional frameworks. He emphasizes that innovation in public transportation is as much about creating regulatory and intellectual spaces for new ideas as it is about financial investment [1].
Impact on Climate Goals
The MRDH’s robust innovation agenda aligns with broader climate goals by potentially reducing pollution through improved efficiency and cleaner technologies in public transport. This effort is in line with national objectives, such as the Netherlands’ commitment to investing 3% of its GDP in research and development by 2030, to bolster economic strength through technological and scientific advancement [2][3].