Last week, our colleague Rim H.M. Stroeks took part in the 8th edition of the Academie voor Sociale Stedelijke Ontwikkeling in Heerlen. The central theme of this edition, “Industry Policy,” carries significant weight in a city where the legacy of the mine closures is still felt more than five decades later. Under the moderation of Lodewijk Asscher, a diverse panel of experts explored and reflected on what industry policy means for the region today. A new “canary in the coal

The Brightlands Startup Challenge has officially kicked off! This challenge, part of the Brightlands innovation ecosystem, offers students a unique opportunity to turn their innovative ideas into real startup concepts. Throughout the program, participants work on shaping a strong business model, validating their ideas, and receiving guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry experts. Why is this valuable for students? The Brightlands Startup Challenge is m