East Netherlands: a global hub for Agri-Food innovation
East Netherlands is a global agrifood powerhouse, renowned as Europe’s leading food region. As the world’s second-largest exporter of food products, our country sets the standard for agricultural innovation and excellence. It is also home to Wageningen University & Research (WUR), ranked the number one university worldwide for agriculture and forestry.
Sustainable food is one of the defining strengths of East Netherlands. The region combines deep agricultural knowledge, advanced food technology, strong research institutions and an entrepreneurial business climate.
For companies looking to innovate, expand or invest, East Netherlands offers access to relevant partners, talent, facilities and market knowledge. Oost NL helps companies connect with the right ecosystem and turn opportunities into concrete growth.
Why East Netherlands?
East Netherlands has a unique position in the European food sector. The region brings together leading knowledge institutions, innovative companies, test facilities and international networks. This makes it an ideal location for companies working on the transition towards healthier, more sustainable and resilient food systems.
From alternative proteins and future feed to circular production and food technology, the region offers the expertise and partnerships needed to move from idea to implementation.
World-class knowledge and research
With Wageningen University & Research and other leading knowledge partners nearby, companies benefit from direct access to scientific expertise, talent and innovation programmes.
A strong food business ecosystem
East Netherlands is home to a broad network of food companies, suppliers, producers, startups and scale-ups. This creates opportunities for collaboration across the full value chain.
A gateway to European markets
Located in the heart of Europe, the region offers an excellent base for international companies that want to enter or expand within the European food market.
Why East Netherlands?
East Netherlands has a unique position in the European food sector. The region brings together leading knowledge institutions, innovative companies, test facilities and international networks. This makes it an ideal location for companies working on the transition towards healthier, more sustainable and resilient food systems.
From alternative proteins and future feed to circular production and food technology, the region offers the expertise and partnerships needed to move from idea to implementation.
World-class knowledge and research
With Wageningen University & Research and other leading knowledge partners nearby, companies benefit from direct access to scientific expertise, talent and innovation programmes.
A strong food business ecosystem
East Netherlands is home to a broad network of food companies, suppliers, producers, startups and scale-ups. This creates opportunities for collaboration across the full value chain.
A gateway to European markets
Located in the heart of Europe, the region offers an excellent base for international companies that want to enter or expand within the European food market.
Part of the Foodvalley ecosystem
Foodvalley is one of the key strengths of East Netherlands’ sustainable food ecosystem. Around Wageningen University & Research, companies, researchers and public partners work together on food innovation, from alternative proteins and future feed to circular and climate-smart production.
Oost NL helps international companies connect with this ecosystem and find the right partners, locations and growth opportunities in the region.
Part of the Foodvalley ecosystem
Foodvalley is one of the key strengths of East Netherlands’ sustainable food ecosystem. Around Wageningen University & Research, companies, researchers and public partners work together on food innovation, from alternative proteins and future feed to circular and climate-smart production.
Oost NL helps international companies connect with this ecosystem and find the right partners, locations and growth opportunities in the region.
Our ecosystems
Oost NL boosts innovative ecosystems in East Netherlands. We achieve this by investing, fostering innovation, and building international connections.
Japanese company Fuji Oil Group finds its way to Food Valley
We are located in an environment that is completely focused on food. For us as a newcomer to the Netherlands, that is fantastic. We meet one expert after another here.
Liz Kamei, managing director of Fuji Europe Africa
Oost NL helps you move forward
Whether you are looking to establish your business, find innovation partners or explore investment opportunities, Oost NL helps you move forward. We support companies that want to grow in East Netherlands and contribute to a more sustainable food system.
Find the right location
We help international companies explore suitable locations in East Netherlands and connect with regional partners, municipalities and business networks.
Connect with the ecosystem
We introduce companies to relevant knowledge institutions, innovation hubs, industry partners and public organisations.
Access funding and growth support
Oost NL supports innovative companies with knowledge of financing opportunities, investment instruments and growth programmes.
Build strategic partnerships
We help companies identify collaboration opportunities across the food value chain, from research and development to production and market entry.
