Northern Netherlands Takes Center Stage in Sustainable Innovation: 7 Victors

The Northern Netherlands region welcomed international guests showcasing groundbreaking sustainability solutions during the Sustainable Industry Challenge. Startups worldwide tackled challenges set by five local companies. The event concluded in a lively finale on November 16th at NHL Stenden in Emmen. Businesses and enthusiasts from the region were in attendance. A total of 7 winners emerged, presenting sustainable opportunities for our region.

The three-day event, organized by Chemport Europe, started on November 14th at Thialf in Heerenveen, where participants tested their ice skating and curling skills. On the second day, the participants visited the companies that had issued the challenges. There they engaged in substantive conversations about the challenges and the feasibility of innovative solutions. The potential winners were to be announced on the third day.

The challenge owners – BASF, Cosun Beet Company, Teijin Aramid, Nobian, and RWE – all sought sustainable solutions for certain processes. They hoped to form meaningful collaborations through the event.

The finale of the Sustainable Industry Challenge marked the end of the thought-provoking competition. Yet, it also marks the start of successful collaborations between companies and startups working on sustainable solutions. This has highlighted the region’s innovative spirit, encouraging real partnerships that help the industry in the Northern Netherlands become greener and more sustainable. We eagerly anticipate more fruitful collaborations with a positive impact.