Research facilities for innovation and growth
The Greater Rotterdam – The Hague area is a world leading ecosystem for HighTech Horticulture and entrepreneurs from around the world working on cutting edge solutions. Here, technology providers are at the forefront of creating solutions that answer many of modern society’s challenges in this area. And Zuid-Holland is home to world-class research facilities like Wageningen University & Research’s outpost in Bleiswijk, the region is a leader in greenhouse horticulture research, focusing on plant physiology, crop management and climate control to revolutionize farming practices.
Other regional institutions and initiatives include, for example, Tomato World located in Westland, serves as an experiential center and a field lab for the data-driven cultivation of tomatoes. Established in 2008 by a collaborative group of growers, seed propagators, greenhouse builders and the local municipality, it is designed to showcase the significant contributions of the sector to global food solutions. This field lab unites over 30 leading companies in the horticulture industry, exemplifying the collaborative spirit and technological expertise that characterize Dutch horticulture.
Likewise, Delphy Greenhouse Horticulture, based in various locations around the Netherlands is conducting applied research to develop new cultivation techniques, crop protection methods and sustainability practices. This involves experimentation with various plant varieties, growth conditions and technologies to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Technology providers, including Robovalley at Delft University of Technology and TU Delft’s MAVLab, are pioneering the use of robotics and drones in agriculture, offering precision and efficiency that address modern societal challenges. With an ability to monitor crop growth and disease more efficiently than the human eye (and at a much higher speed), for example, robots and data systems have the potential to optimize farming throughout the agriculture and horticulture industries.
The World Horti Center stands as a beacon within this network – an international knowledge and innovation center for horticulture, functioning as a school, a meeting point and a year-round trade fair. It exemplifies the collaborative spirit and technological advancement that define Dutch horticulture, offering a vibrant platform for continuous interaction and learning among industry leaders.
This, and more information, can be found in our guide about partnerships, networks organisations, international companies that already have set up shop in our region, funding incentives, talent and recruitment.