Today, Niemeyer in Groningen opened its doors for a working visit by Minister Beljaarts (Ministry of Economic Affairs) and State Secretary Van Marum (Reconstruction Groningen). During their visit, the officials gained insight into ambitious plans to transform Niemeyer into the hotspot for digital innovation in Northern Netherlands. They were welcomed by Mayor Mirjam van 't Veld, Kristiaan Capelle (owner of MWPO), and Edward van der Meer (director of Campus Groningen). "From MWPO, we are proud to develop the Niemeyer factory into the beating heart of the digital economy at this unique location in Groningen's city center. It was an honor to host Minister of Economic Affairs and State Secretary Reconstruction Groningen today and show them what is possible here," said Kristiaan Capelle after the visit.
"For a robust digital economy, enhanced cybersecurity, and reducing risky dependencies on non-European countries, it is essential for businesses, educational institutions, research organizations, and governments to increase both public and private investment in digital technologies. The Netherlands is doing well in this regard, but there is room for improvement. Collaboration in digital initiatives in Groningen is a compelling example of how we can progress," noted Minister Beljaarts during the Niemeyer visit.
Niemeyer's development, a collaboration between MWPO and Campus Groningen, will soon become a dynamic campus where companies with a digital focus, research institutions, and governments collaborate to build the future digital economy. The redevelopment of the former tobacco factory on Paterswoldseweg aligns seamlessly with the broader regional strategy to leverage digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) as economic drivers. Establishing thematic campuses supports the goals of the Nij Begun Economic Agenda, aiming to bring more knowledge to the market and foster talent through a stronger knowledge and innovation ecosystem.
State Secretary Van Marum added, "Today, I have seen firsthand what this could mean for the city and its surroundings; not only opportunities for innovative businesses but also for developing, utilizing, and retaining talent. These are areas we are actively working on through the economic agenda with our regional partners."
"For a robust digital economy, enhanced cybersecurity, and reducing risky dependencies on non-European countries, it is essential for businesses, educational institutions, research organizations, and governments to increase both public and private investment in digital technologies. The Netherlands is doing well in this regard, but there is room for improvement. Collaboration in digital initiatives in Groningen is a compelling example of how we can progress."
Pioneers in digitalisation
Niemeyer will apply cutting-edge innovation in AI, data science, and digital technology. This location will provide space for startups, scale-ups, and public initiatives to develop and apply new technologies. During an interactive tour of Niemeyer, Minister Beljaarts and State Secretary Van Marum met with pioneers from the digital sector. Companies like Bollegraaf, Stekz, and Enatom showcased how AI is already making an impact today—from circular waste separation to advanced healthcare applications. UMCG also highlighted how collaboration with young technology firms is crucial for the future of healthcare and the use of AI.
"Artificial intelligence offers tremendous opportunities to promote health and make healthcare more resilient. At UMCG, we collaborate with many partners and possess unique health data, such as Lifelines and numerous clinical cohorts, to harness these possibilities. We actively seek partnerships with companies to develop AI applications that truly contribute to healthier years ahead. I am delighted to share some inspiring examples today with the Minister and State Secretary, demonstrating how technology and collaboration can truly advance health and healthcare," said Wiro Niessen, Board of Directors UMCG.
An Emerging Digital Region
The development of Niemeyer aligns with the broader ambition of Northern Netherlands to position itself as a leading digital region. With over 500 IT and tech companies and national leaders in AI, cybersecurity, and quantum technology, Groningen has become a key player in the Dutch digital landscape. Niemeyer plays a pivotal role by connecting technology, talent, and societal issues.
Koen Atema, Niemeyer Campus facilitator, looks forward to Niemeyer's development as a hotspot for the digital sector: "Digitalization has a profound impact on society, especially evident in the rapid advances in AI. Northern Netherlands has enormous potential in digital fields due to the talent, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit here. Niemeyer provides the space and facilities for businesses, research institutions, and societal organizations to collaborate on digital opportunities for the region. Today, we have jointly provided a glimpse into that future."
In 2024, MWPO acquired the former Niemeyer tobacco factory on Paterswoldseweg and is transforming this unique location into the heart of the digital economy. Niemeyer will be the place where companies, startups, and public initiatives in digitalization, AI, and deep tech converge and strengthen each other—a hub where innovation takes flight. Niemeyer Campus is one of the eight locations designated in the Masterplan Campuses.
Northern Netherlands has enormous potential in digital fields due to the talent, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit here. Niemeyer provides the space and facilities for businesses, research institutions, and societal organizations to collaborate on digital opportunities for the region."
Source text: niemeyernieuws.nl
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