Brightlands Limburg is one of the 7 smartest regions in the world

Governor Emile Roemer is proud of this achievement: “Limburg is among the world’s best, competing in the Champions League of innovation and technology. Of course, we’ve known this for a long time, but I’m glad it’s now official. This recognition means we play a central role in solving future challenges in our society. It’s a wonderful but also responsible task that Limburg is tackling with enthusiasm and making a reality. The world could use a little more Limburg.”

Provincial Executive Member Stephan Satijn: “What a fantastic recognition that Limburg ranks among the top 7 most innovative regions in the world. Thanks to all the entrepreneurs, scientists, students, and the many Limburg residents who drive innovation in our region and take it to the next level. This proves that our Brightlands Campuses and Limburg’s companies and educational institutions are making their mark internationally. We are demonstrating our commitment to progress and our role as an innovative leader on the global stage.”

Last year, the ICF named Brightlands Limburg one of the 21 smartest regions. The ICF is a global federation of more than 200 cities and regions that support one another in using technology to promote inclusive and broad-based prosperity, with the goal of improving quality of life. As a member of the ICF, Limburg hopes to learn from the knowledge and experience of other regions around the world regarding how they organize innovation and development, and to apply these lessons to Limburg’s continued development as a region of innovation.

To qualify for membership, ICF Limburg was evaluated based on criteria such as proven innovative strength, knowledge development, digital infrastructure, and the quality of collaborations within the regional ecosystem. Based on this assessment, Brightlands Limburg was admitted to the international federation and selected for the global top 7. From this top 7, the “Smartest Region of the Year 2026” will ultimately be chosen in October in Ohio. So far, Brainport Eindhoven is the only region in the Netherlands to have won this title. That was in 2011.

This week, the first ICF conference was held in Limburg, with the theme: Circular Living, Building Sustainable Communities Through Innovation and Local Impact.This week, the first ICF conference was held in Limburg, with the theme: Circular Living—Building Sustainable Communities Through Innovation and Local Impact. At various locations, participants explored what circularity truly means for citizens, employees, businesses, and institutions. These sessions took place at Maastricht University, the Province of Limburg, the Brightlands Campuses, and the MECC. They discussed how circularity will shape our view of housing, work, and life. The event also featured presentations on innovative initiatives and projects from Limburg, including Brightland Circular Space, CHILL, Stadslabs Sittard-Geleen, the Einstein Telescope, and dozens of Limburg-based startups. The event also featured presentations on innovative initiatives and projects from Limburg, including Brightland Circular Space, CHILL, Stadslabs Sittard-Geleen, the Einstein Telescope, and dozens of Limburg-based startups.

Source: Brightlands newsletter