FoodNL in Europe

FoodNL positions itself in Brussels to connect the collective strength of the four Dutch food regions with European policy priorities such as food security, sustainability, and innovation. Through close cooperation with European institutions and active participation in EU programmes, FoodNL aims to accelerate the transition towards healthy nutrition and protein innovation. In doing so, the alliance actively contributes to the achievement of European agricultural and food policy objectives.
By being visible and actively engaged at the European level, FoodNL creates new opportunities for entrepreneurs, researchers, and public authorities, while increasing the European impact of the Dutch agri-food sector.

European Week of Regions and Cities (Brussels)

The European Week of Regions and Cities, held annually in October, is a joint event of the European Commission and the Committee of the Regions. It brings together regions and cities from across Europe to exchange knowledge, discuss policy developments, and showcase successful projects. It is the largest European platform for regional development, where policymakers, researchers, businesses, and civil society organisations come together to address themes such as innovation, sustainability, inclusion, and economic growth. FoodNL participates in this event to strengthen existing relationships with European regions and institutions and to establish new connections.

Grüne Woche

The International Grüne Woche in Berlin is one of the largest and most prominent international trade fairs in the fields of food, agriculture, and agri-innovation. Each year, the event brings together producers, politicians, policymakers, businesses, and consumers from around the world to explore current topics such as food quality, sustainability, innovation, and regional identity.

For the four FoodNL food regions, participating in Grüne Woche provides a strategic platform to position themselves both internationally and nationally. On the international stage, the event enhances the visibility of the Netherlands’ strength in producing healthy, sustainable, and affordable food. Nationally, Grüne Woche serves as an ideal meeting place to strengthen relationships with Dutch politicians, government officials, and partner organizations.

This national connection is particularly important because the four food regions, drawing on their combined expertise (spanning government, business, and education and knowledge institutions) deliver demonstrable added value to the development of the food system of the future. The regions function as practical environments where policy, innovation, and entrepreneurship converge, and where solutions are developed for complex challenges related to food sustainability, health, and affordability.

At a time when food security is becoming an increasingly significant societal and geopolitical challenge, Grüne Woche offers a relevant platform to showcase this expertise, deepen discussions with policymakers, and collectively shape future-proof food policies. The joint presentation within the Dutch pavilion underscores the strength of collaboration and reinforces the positioning of the Netherlands as an international leader in sustainable food production.