IO’s event calendar: September

There are countless events and lectures organized for innovation professionals every year. Can’t see the forest for the trees anymore? Or do you need some inspiration? Good news! Every month, IO provides you with an overview of exciting events for that period. Whether you are interested in artificial intelligence, sustainability, or healthcare, there is something for everyone. We group them by region.

Southern Netherlands

1. Last week, former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi handed over his competitiveness report to EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The report calls for a significant increase in funding and efforts to boost EU innovation, emphasizing that Europe must act now to stay competitive globally.The timing couldn't be better. This Thursday Innovation Origins organizes its first IO On Stage event. During a live interview with the former editor-in-chief at Het Financieele DagbladFred Bakker, we dive into key insights from his book 'Unleashing the Power of European Innovation'. We'll discuss sharing brainpower, Europe's strategic autonomy, and keeping up with China and the US. Register for this event here.
1. This year, Mikrocentrum is organizing the Kunststoffenbeurs for the 25th time. The Kunststoffenbeurs is the largest trade fair in Benelux, focusing on plastics and rubber. The central themes during this edition are sustainability and circularity. There will also be extra attention for the anniversary, with an exhibition on the most critical developments in the plastics and rubber industry of the past 25 years.
1. The third edition of LEVEL UP, the startup event, is just around the corner! On Monday, September 30, the inspiring event will take place at the Evoluon in Eindhoven. Hundreds of startups will be uniquely able to take their business to new heights. The event's focus on startups in innovation and technology makes it a unique event in Europe. A unique technology award underlines the importance of innovation in technology.

Western Netherlands

1. At this event, advancements in Photonics and Optics take centre stage. PhotonicsNL extends its collaborative reach, partnering with a distinguished member to bring an additional focus to this exceptional event. Regardless of your field within photonics, our primary focus is on innovation, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of the latest developments.The events' commitment is to provide you with unparalleled insights into the Photonics world, propelling Photonics Applications into the global market. Anticipate an exhilarating day filled with networking opportunities that will enhance your understanding of photonics.
1. This annual Dutch battery event promises to be illuminating, offering a platform for leaders, industry experts, and visionaries to collaborate and encourage new developments. Battery Competence Cluster NL is building a solid Dutch battery ecosystem. Battery Day 2024 inspires, informs, and ignites meaningful conversations that transcend boundaries and drive tangible impact. Therefore, this year’s Battery Day is co-organized with TU Delft and Innovation Quarter.
1. The main theme of this year’s World of Health Care event emphasizes the interconnectedness of healthcare systems globally and the urgency for collaboration across borders to drive innovation, improve patient care, and address common challenges. Hosted in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the World of Healthcare serves as a platform for fostering cross-cultural exchange, sharing insights, and forging partnerships to propel healthcare advancements forward.

Eastern Netherlands

1. Within the Pioneers in Healthcare (PIHC) Innovation Fund, the University of Twente, Saxion, Medisch Spectrum Twente, ZiekenhuisGroep Twente and Deventer Hospital have a mutual goal: faster introduction of innovative technology in clinical practice. The Pioneers in Healthcare Innovation Fund pioneers both by developing new technology for clinical challenges, and by exploring the possibilities to use existing technology for new medical applications.
1. Vibe of the Future Festival ignites a spirit of innovation and inspiration through a week-long festival that bridges art, culture, business, science and technology. A diverse program, enabling innovative and creative minds to explore, connect and collaborate. Be inspired by a mosaic of unexpected intersections, showcasing Nijmegen's most innovative minds and impactful endeavors.

Northern Netherlands

1. The European Water Tech Week, organized by WaterCampus Leeuwarden, serves as a pivotal gathering for the water technology sector and aims to extend its influence across Europe and the world. This three-day congress (including the annual Wetsus Congress) will blend science and business in a number of plenary and parallel sessions. Find more info here.
1. The Smartlab (Forum) is open every weekend, and you can use all kinds of setups and installations to get started yourself. The program is for young and old alike. Learn more about how the 3D printer works and try to design or draw a digital design yourself. You will also see the laser cutter at work. Experiment with different self-thinking machines. Have a machine create art, write a poem, or have an in-depth conversation with it. Do these devices think like us?