TNO: Megaclusters to create new tech champions

They are intended to drive a next generation of Dutch tech champions. TNO calls on the Dutch government to invest specifically in the development of these megaclusters. This is outlined in a paper published today by TNO on strengthening the Netherlands' earning capacity.

Megaclusters: new backbone of Dutch tech

High-tech megaclusters are mission-driven innovation hubs where companies, knowledge institutions, governments, and investors collaborate intensively on key enabling technologies such as quantum, integrated photonics, and batteries. Within these megaclusters, companies have access to modern lab facilities, high-tech equipment, and pilot manufacturing lines. This allows them to share risks, scale up faster, and strengthen their global competitive position.

The national technology ambitions are aimed at creating control points: the most difficult-to-replace activities in global value chains. Such positions give the Netherlands strategic influence and make us more attractive for international R&D investments. Megaclusters help Dutch startups and scale-ups systematically build exactly these kinds of positions.

3% GDP

TNO considers megaclusters essential for the Netherlands to achieve the goal of spending 3% of its GDP on R&D and to realize the ambitions of the National Technology Strategy. Megaclusters offer a concrete answer to this: they attract private investments, strengthen the business climate, and make the Netherlands a magnet for international companies, talent and capital. In an increasingly unpredictable world, the need for economic and technological resilience is growing – not only for our competitive position but also for our security. Key enabling technologies are by definition 'dual use': they are indispensable for both civil applications and defense and security purposes.