NLWorks

How do you build international business partnerships that create real impact? We spoke to our team member Frank Eyssen, a central figure in NLWorks’ efforts to create meaningful public-private partnerships. From his work on agri-food, energy, and reconstruction, Frank shares insights into the challenges, successes, and lessons of international collaboration. As NLWorks grows, we’re looking for an International Partnership Developer to join our team. This is a great opportunity to work alongside people like Frank and help build partnerships that make a difference. Apply by 21st February 2025 to join us at NLWorks: https://lnkd.in/ei6xdeCU Would you like to learn more about Frank or NLWorks? Get in touch via email: frank.eyssen@nl-works.com #NLWorks #PublicPrivatePartnerships #SustainableDevelopment #JobOpportunity #Partnerships 

We are hiring! Mooie kans om deel uit te maken van onze unieke organisatie als partnership developer op internationale groei- en ontwikkelmarkten.

NLWorks zoekt International Partnerships Developers die succesvolle partnerships ontwikkelen met internationale bedrijven, kennisinstellingen en overheden op internationale groei- en ontwikkelmarkten. Wil jij helpen om het internationale verdien- en innovatievermogen van Nederland te versterken en te versnellen? Soliciteer vandaag nog: https://lnkd.in/epWaepxk

🌍 Turkey and the Netherlands: Strengthening partnerships, building resilience   Last weekend, NLWorks and our partners from DMT MODULAR, VDL De Meeuw and KuiperCompagnons, hosted a delegation from Antakya, Turkey, as part of our collaboration to develop a new economic sector around modular construction with Antakya as an international centre of excellence. This visit marks an important step in Turkish-Dutch collaboration to develop earthquake-resilient, sustainable, and inclusive communities following the devastating earthquake of 2023.   Programme highlights: ✅ A tour of modular construction districts and projects in The Hague, Gorinchem, and Nijmegen, showcasing innovative solutions in sustainable, safe, comfortable, and earthquake-resilient modular construction. ✅ In-depth discussions in Rotterdam about our shared ambitions, roles, and responsibilities for the development of a new economic sector around modular construction. ✅ A constructive meeting on the future collaboration and next steps, formalising commitments to begin the feasibility phase for the construction of a first modular neighbourhood in Antakya, Hatay.   We are proud to collaborate with our Turkish and Dutch partners to rebuild communities and provide safe, modern housing, thereby helping to restore the DNA, soul, social fabric, culture, and local economy of Antakya, Hatay.   🇹🇷 🇳🇱 A special thanks to: Municipality of Antakya: Mayor İbrahim Naci Yapar, Ramazan Deniz, Yüksel Aydin, Mustafa Kaan Çevik, Ahmet Çevik Dutch Partners: Ahmet Aydoğan (DMT MODULAR), Joziene van de Linde (VDL De Meeuw), Rogier Mentink (KuiperCompagnons) Supporting partners and liaisons: Hamit Karakus, Gurbuz Yabas, and Taner Can Together, we’re building a brighter future for Hatay.   Stay tuned for updates as we move forward with this impactful project! Katrien Volleman Frank Eyssen #NLWorks #RebuildHatay #TurkishDutchPartnership #ModularConstruction #EarthquakeResilience #Sustainability

Warm Holiday Wishes from the NLWorks Team! As we wrap up 2024, our team at NLWorks would like to express our gratitude for your trust, collaboration, and support this year. It’s been an incredible journey of partnerships and innovation for impact, and we couldn’t have done it without you! This year, we’re proud to reflect on the progress we’ve made together with our partners across these programmes: - Turkey: With the Rebuild Hatay: Modular Neighborhoods programme, We’ve been contributing to rebuilding efforts in Hatay, supporting communities affected by the earthquake. - United States: Through the Global Controlled Environment Agriculture Consortium (GCEAC) in California, Orchard of the Future in Washington, and the Let’s Grow Together programme in Kentucky, we’ve pushed the boundaries of sustainable agriculture, showcasing Dutch innovations and collaborations for the future of food. - Ukraine: Together with Task Force Healthcare, we provided clarity on international financing and funding for healthcare recovery. - Rwanda: We have supported the East Africa Clean Cooking initiative by enhancing clean cooking solutions in Rwanda. The partners are now independently working towards international scaling. - Vietnam: In the Vietnam Sustainable Horticulture programme, we’re combining Dutch greenhouse technology with Orlar’s low-energy methods to enable net-zero, climate-resilient farming in the Mekong Delta. - India: Through the India Regenerative Cotton Chain programme, we’ve supported Indian and Dutch partners in scaling up significant impact for local communities, building new sustainable partnerships, and stimulating access to finance to expand this initiative significantly in the coming years. The programme also aims to replicate this approach in other countries, such as Turkey. - China: The Sino-Dutch Integrated Agri-Parks and Sustainable Pig Farming China programmes have made significant steps in integrating Dutch expertise into Chinese agriculture for more sustainable practices. Looking ahead to 2025, we’re excited about new opportunities and collaborations to drive further innovation and sustainability, with a focus on profitable business with positive impact. We’re especially looking forward to our new programmes, such as Innovation in Food Transition in France, Bio-based Economy in Brazil, and advancing green hydrogen & battery technology to support the energy transition. We will also continue strengthening ecosystems in high-tech, sustainable energy, and circular economy projects.   Do you have an idea or need support building sustainable, impact-driven business partnerships? Message us to learn more. From all of us— Renée Andela, Daniel da Costa, Calvin Curry, Frank Eyssen, Luud Lemmens, Willem Moraal, Tracy Wilson, and Katrien Volleman—we wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a bright start to 2025.    Here’s to another year of collaboration, innovation, and shared impact!

Last Friday, we celebrated a milestone in Dutch-American agritech partnership, as Consul General Eric Strating helped cut the ribbon at a 30-acre Bosch Berries greenhouse in Somerset, Kentucky. The Netherlands is the capital of the global greenhouse and controlled-environment agriculture sector. Now, Wouter van den Bosch and Tijmen van den Bosch, two visionary Dutch growers, are bringing their family’s agricultural expertise from Bleiswijk in the Netherlands to the heart of Kentucky. In only four years, Kentucky has grown to over 13.8 million square feet of production under glass or plastic, making it second in the U.S. for fresh produce production under cover—an achievement reflecting the power of collaboration. The Netherlands is proud to support this spirit of collaboration. Partnerships like the KY-NL Consortium show how Dutch expertise in sustainable agriculture can combine with American ambition to deliver real results like: ✅ Reducing food miles, ensuring fresher produce ✅ Creating jobs and economic opportunities locally ✅ Meeting global challenges like food security and sustainability The Bosch brothers are producing far more than berries—they are growing opportunities for healthier communities and stronger international ties. At the Consulate General of the Netherlands in Chicago, we are committed to fostering partnerships like this, which demonstrate the strength of Dutch-American agricultural and economic diplomacy. Congratulations to the Bosch Berries team, the Somerset community, and all who made this possible. This is only the beginning! NLWorks | Bosch Growers | Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development | Kentucky Department of Agriculture

Exciting developments from Kentucky this week! Members of the Kentucky-Netherlands Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Consortium, “Let’s grow together!”, have touched down in Kentucky to strengthen collaboration and advance key priorities for the AgriTech ecosystem. The visit kicked off with the grand opening of a Bosch Berries facility, a state-of-the-art greenhouse in Somerset-Pulaski, Kentucky. Led by Wouter and Tijmen van den Bosch of Bosch Growers, Dutch growers with deep roots in agricultural innovation, the 30-acre facility marks a new chapter for sustainable food production in the region. Their efforts highlight the benefits of reducing food miles, creating local jobs, and delivering fresher produce—all while strengthening rural communities through advanced agricultural practices. This milestone underlines how Dutch technology and expertise, combined with Kentucky’s ambition, can address global challenges like food security, drive economic development, and unlock opportunities for innovation. The visit also deepens ties across government, industry, and academia, aligning our shared commitment to innovation and sustainability. With the support of Eric Strating, Consul General of Consulate General of the Netherlands in Chicago, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development, The Kentucky Horticulture Council (Trevor Terry), Arcadis, and other partners, the trip is focused on: - Strengthening collaboration with local leaders to drive regional growth and innovation. - Creating economic opportunities that empower businesses, universities, and communities to thrive. - Positioning Kentucky as a global leader in sustainable, high-tech agriculture. As we refine our roadmap and gather input from partners, milestones like Bosch Berries demonstrate the tangible value of international collaboration. Together, we are working to build an impactful AgriTech ecosystem that benefits Kentucky, the Netherlands, and the world. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue growing together! Daniel da Costa #AgriTech #Sustainability #BoschBerries #Kentucky #Innovation #Netherlands #CEA #Partnership #Agriculture #TechForGood #NLWorks

On Wednesday, 27 November, we gratefully celebrated the 7th anniversary of NLWorks with our alumni. Founded in 2017 as “De Werkplaats,” NLWorks was established to develop international private-public partnerships, enhancing the Netherlands’ global competitiveness in growth markets. Our mission remains clear till this day: to establish partnerships that develop profitable business while leaving a positive impact on society, the economy, and the environment­. All the while focusing on transformative sectors like agriculture, food, energy, healthcare, and vital technologies. Our journey could not have begun better with pioneers such as Maurits van Os, Eric van Kooij, Daan Marks, Inge Wijzenbroek, and Arthur van Leeuwen, who laid the foundation for NLWorks. Building on their efforts, alumni including Koos van Eyk, Karin Bax, and Sarah James refined our approach, portfolio, and organization. Over the years, NLWorks has been part of 20 international private-public partnership programs spanning five continents, collaborating with over 200 partners. Today, 10 international programs are actively running, in sectors like agrifood, renewable energy, and vital technologies. Continuing to deliver meaningful results in countries like China, India, Vietnam, and the U.S. A heartfelt thanks to everyone who has contributed to our success—whether as dedicated supporters or as business, knowledge, or public partners in our initiatives. Together, we have strengthened the Netherlands’ international competitiveness and developed profitable, and impactful collaborations worldwide. Many thanks from Luud Lemmens, Willem Moraal, Tracy Wilson, Katrien Volleman, Frank Eyssen, Renée Andela, Daniel da Costa, and Sander van Rijn to all friends of NLWorks. Are you interested in developing, or being part of a strong business driven private-public partnership with a positive impact? Let us know. #BusinessWithImpact #ImpactfulPartnerships #International #Collaboration

Innovative Collaboration for Sustainable Water Management in Thailand! 🇳🇱🤝🇹🇭 For the next three years, our partners will focus on fostering sustainable partnerships between Dutch companies, knowledge institutions, and the Thai government. The goal? Delivering innovative solutions for water management and climate adaptation in the Greater Bangkok area. This Partner's in Business-collaboration, subsidized by Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO), includes knowledge sharing, and the development of pilot projects that contribute to sustainable water management and infrastructure in the region. The partnership involves prominent organizations such as Royal HaskoningDHV, Delta Context B.V., Bosman Watermanagement, Defacto Urbanism, FutureWater, MetaMeta, SLAMDAM, and ROwat Water Control. Also, renowned institutions like TU Delft and Wageningen University & Research play a pivotal role. #NLWorks played a pivotal role in the early stages of this #collaboration. Together with the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) | Partner in Sustainable Development, NLWorks conducted thorough analyses to identify opportunities and risks, suitable cooperation models, and the structure for the consortium and its funding. These efforts laid a solid foundation for the Partner's in Business initiative’s successful launch and future implementation. As new opportunities emerge for Dutch businesses, NLWorks remains committed to proactively driving further #progress all over the world. Hans van den Bron, Executive Director of the Netherlands-Thai Chamber of Commerce (NTCC), highlights the impact of this collaboration: “Through our excellent cooperation with NLWorks, the landscape between private and public stakeholders became remarkably clear. With our collective efforts, we achieved a significant milestone: after more than a decade, the first approved program application for water sector stakeholders in Thailand, enabling us to jointly address local challenges.” This initiative not only strengthens the ties between the Netherlands and Thailand but also demonstrates how #international #partnerships can provide tangible solutions to #globalchallenges like climate adaptation and water resilience. Discover more about our works and projects at: www.nl-works.com. #BusinessWithImpact #SustainableFuture

Meet our partnership developer, Frank Eyssen! Frank has proven himself to be a true advocate for #sustainable and equitable societies. He has spent years building bridges between international businesses, governments, and knowledge institutions to create partnerships that drive positive change for society. “Every business ultimately becomes irrelevant if they do not address the key challenges of society.“ Frank has a firm belief that businesses hold not only a pivotal role, but also a responsibility to create sustainable impact. “For me, NLWorks is where international business meets meaningful #impact. With a focus on critical challenges like food, energy, and health, I’ve found purpose in building collaborations that improve lives and foster sustainable growth. Personal experiences, including the loss of my youngest son to a preventable illness, have deepened my determination to go beyond business and create solutions that make a difference for people, economies, and the planet.” “What makes the work at #NLWorks truly special is the opportunity to collaborate with highly motivated partners from diverse sectors—businesses, universities, and public organizations—all driven by a shared ambition to create change. From signing a sustainable economy agreement with Curaçao to working with smallholder farmers in India and witnessing the resilience of communities in Ukraine and Turkey, these partnerships consistently highlight the power of collective action.” “I’ve learned that private-public #partnerships are not a shortcut—they’re challenging, requiring patience, determination, and a clear, viable business case. Yet when done right, they enable large-scale, profitable impact that no organization could achieve alone. The food and energy transition programs at NLWorks exemplify this, building high-performing ecosystems that balance business goals with societal needs.” Frank also holds a strong vision for the future of the world, and what is needed to thrive as a society: “Looking ahead, I see a critical need to shift from bilateral to multilateral #collaborations. The global transitions we face are simply too vast for one or two countries to address alone. Selective, constructive partnerships across the EU, the U.S., Africa, and Asia will be vital in creating scalable solutions for the challenges we share.” “To our partners—Dutch and international businesses, knowledge institutes, public organizations, and my colleagues at NLWorks—thank you for your passion, perseverance, and commitment. Together, we’re proving that business, innovation, and impact can thrive hand in hand. Let’s continue building a better future, one partnership at a time.” As a partnership developer for NLWorks, he’s not only driven by results, but also ensures every project leaves a positive legacy. For him, it’s not just about success—it’s about making a difference. Want to know more about Frank and our team? Get to know us at: nl-works.com/our-team/.