That’s how we make the ambition a reality
International hotspot in the making
The Innovation District is not starting from scratch; it is building on what is already here in Breda: strong businesses, educational institutions, talent and an active network. By creating even more space for initiative, collaboration and experimentation, the district will become the place where innovative ideas find their way into practice faster than ever.
Breda in 2040: a vision of the future
Imagine… it’s 2040 and Breda is the leading city in the Netherlands and the border region, where robotics, AI, games and creative technology reinforce one another. Students find their first job there, companies grow with ease and teams work together to develop new applications.
As a result, the city has built a strong international position, created new economic opportunities and become a place where talent is keen to come and stay.
Breda can conquer the world with creativity and tech
Robbert and Cor van de Corput
DJ Hardwell and his father
How should we approach this?
To make that ambition a reality, we work in a structured way and with concrete objectives. We have chosen five strategic domains and, within them, work with lines of action that deliver measurable results. We regularly assess what works well and where adjustments may be needed. This leaves room for new initiatives while keeping us on course towards 2040.
Fortunately, the city is not developing the Innovation District alone. It is a joint undertaking involving businesses, education and government. This shared leadership, with close links between all parties, ensures that ideas do not remain stuck in meetings but are effectively taken up and implemented. Everyone contributes knowledge, networks, space or resources from their own role.
Rollout in 3 phases
1. Building and connecting (2021 - 2026)
At this stage, we strengthened existing networks, established new connections and launched the first programmes and collaborations. The Municipality of Breda played an important role in driving these efforts. The Advisory Board helped guide the development of the Innovation District and bring parties together around a shared ambition.
2. Strengthen and scale up (2027–2032)
During this phase, the Innovation District develops into a firmly established ecosystem. Businesses, educational institutions and government bodies increasingly take joint responsibility for the district’s development. Partners invest jointly in programmes, innovation facilities and talent development. Incubators, labs and communities are further expanded, connecting more entrepreneurs, researchers and students to the district. At the same time, we develop the physical and digital facilities that support this growth..
3. Expand and accelerate (2032 and beyond)
Breda Innovation District has developed into a mature innovation ecosystem with a strong national and international position. Businesses, educational institutions and government jointly shape the further development of the district and invest in the growth of the ecosystem. The independent organisation behind the Innovation District is responsible for delivery, management and profile-building. This enables us to attract new businesses, investment and talent, and increase the economic and societal impact for Breda and the region.
The five strategic domains
Breda wants to create space for companies that want to grow and innovate. That is why we give start-ups and scale-ups access to talent, knowledge, funding and partners. Existing companies in the region can also benefit from new collaborations, innovation programmes and testing opportunities. In this way, we strengthen the business climate and make Breda more attractive to companies that fit the city’s profile.
