TECH.LAND the Dutch-German high-tech region where innovation knows no limits

Hans Brouwers, program manager at TECH.LAND, explains the value of this Dutch-German collaboration: “Nowhere else will you find such a strong mix of talent, expertise, and support in technology and innovation. Across the border, partners know how to find and complement each other, and the strength lies not only in business agreements, but in trust and shared ambition. This makes the region an ideal location for companies with European and global ambitions.”

Hankamp Rehab: leveraging talent from Twente and Germany

Consider Hankamp from Enschede, a family business that has been rooted in Twente for generations. Their specialty? Precision gears and related components for the defense and aviation industries, and through its younger branch, Hankamp Rehab, the development and marketing of rehabilitation robotics. For owner Frederik Tönis, the location is strategic: “We’ve been in the same place for generations. Everything is nearby: the University of Twente, excellent transport links, and access to skilled talent in Germany. Despite a well-known shortage of metalworkers, we now have four German colleagues on our team.”

A steppingstone to Germany and Europe

Where Hankamp Rehab develops and markets cutting-edge technology, TECH.LAND provides the Dutch-German network that allows such innovations to thrive. The collaboration between Twente and Münster existed previously, says Brouwers. “But with TECH.LAND, we are taking a broader approach, focusing on four strategic themes: medical technology, battery and hydrogen technology, circular economy, and production and robotics. Additionally, the importance of chip technology and defense is growing. For example, a new chip factory - New Origin - will soon be coming to Enschede, where the production of photonic chips will begin. This is a huge opportunity for the entire Dutch-German border region.”

Along with these topics, TECH.LAND also focuses on increasing visibility and lobbying, both globally and in political hubs such as Brussels, The Hague, Düsseldorf, and Berlin. “We want to show what we are good at,” Brouwers adds. “Twente is strategically positioned - close to Germany and well connected to the rest of Europe. Working directly with Dutch and German partners who understand technology and are happy to share knowledge ensures that innovations don’t disappear into a drawer - they actually get off the ground. For companies, this is a fantastic steppingstone to the Dutch, German, or even European market.”

Collaboration built on trust

According to Brouwers, TECH.LAND’s strength comes from combining complementary qualities. “The Netherlands is a trading nation with an entrepreneurial mindset and strong international trade, while Germany is a manufacturing powerhouse with a strong focus on long-term, trust-based partnerships.” Fritz Jaeckel, director of the Industrie- und Handelskammer (IHK), agrees: “What strikes me in East Netherlands, and particularly in the Twente region, is how natural and effective public-private partnerships are. They are fast, agile and inspiring. Germany has much to learn from this approach.”

Short lines of communication and mutual respect

For international companies looking for a new location, the message is clear: “Where a company settles depends on its needs, “explains Tönis. “There is so much potential on both sides of the border, so boundaries are irrelevant.” He believes TECH.LAND is unique - a chance to really get noticed. “Whether you’re a startup or a long-established company, the network is close-knit, communication is direct, and mutual respect is a given, even for SMEs.”