Brightlands Institute for Supply Chain Innovation
At the Brightlands Institute for Supply Chain Innovation (BISCI), we’re building the future of logistics — smarter, greener and more connected. Founded in 2019 by Maastricht University and the Province of Limburg, BISCI turns cutting-edge research into real-world solutions that help businesses thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.
Through close partnerships with companies, governments and community organisations, BISCI bridges the gap between science and practice. Together, we co-create innovations that drive sustainable growth and digital transformation across supply chains. BISCI also plays an active role in training the next generation of supply chain professionals, empowering students and young talent to shape the logistics of tomorrow.
Strong Partnerships
Collaboration is at the heart of BISCI’s mission. We work closely with TNO and Fontys University of Applied Sciences to combine academic excellence with practical insight and technological expertise. These partnerships help translate innovation into real-world impact — from applied research to education and implementation.
BISCI is also a proud partner of Supply Chain Valley Limburg, the central network representing the logistics sector in the region. By aligning with Supply Chain Valley, we ensure that our research and innovation efforts remain closely connected to the needs and priorities of the regional business community. Together, we strengthen Limburg’s position as a logistics and innovation hotspot in Europe.
Furthermore, BISCI is part of the Brightlands ecosystem — a vibrant innovation community where entrepreneurs, researchers, students and policymakers come together to tackle real-world challenges. As part of this Brightlands ecosystem, BISCI benefits from strong connections with campuses in Venlo, Maastricht, Heerlen and Sittard-Geleen. Through these partnerships, we accelerate innovation in logistics, food, health, smart services and materials — helping position Limburg as a leading region for sustainable development and economic resilience.
Our Research: Innovation with Impact
BISCI is deeply embedded in the Marketing and Supply Chain Management department at Maastricht University’s School of Business and Economics. This connection gives us access to top-tier academic expertise and the latest research infrastructure.
Our work is guided by the "triple bottom line": people, planet and profit. We explore how companies can balance economic performance with environmental responsibility and social impact — creating value that lasts.
Exemplary research topics include:
- Augmented reality (AR) in warehouses
- Autonomous vehicles and platooning
- Smart sensors in containers
- Drones for last-mile delivery
- Developing stronger but lighter packaging
- Supplier-enabled logistics services innovation
- Traceability of CO2 emissions throughout supply chain
- Digital technologies in logistics activities
We're open to collaborate!
BISCI is a transparent institute open to collaboration. We are looking for complementarities with other knowledge institutions and parties who share the ambition of smart and sustainable supply chain solutions.
If you’re interested in working with us, please give us a call or send us an email.
