<p>On 23–24 September, the AI, Data and Robotics Forum 2025 (ADRF25) took place in Stavanger, Norway, where Europe’s leading innovation communities gathered to accelerate the responsible uptake of AI, data and robotics across sectors and regions.</p><p>Representing the East Netherlands, Think East Netherlands proudly contributed to the discussions and sessions shaping Europe’s digital future.</p><p>Our regional experts were: Marianne Pouwer (AI-hub Oost-Nederland / Oost NL) and Iddo Bante and Marieke Smidt (EDIH Boost East Netherlands).</p><h2>Driving European collaboration through regional strength</h2><p>At ADRF25, the East Netherlands played an active role in two key moments in the programme:</p><ul><li>a workshop on regional digital innovation ecosystems</li><li>a dedicated EDIH session on connecting European digital networks</li></ul><p>Both the workshop and the EDIH session were moderated by Iddo Bante. In each session, Marieke Smidt contributed pitches highlighting how collaboration between AI Hubs, EDIHs, TEFs, AI Factories, EEN and initiatives such as Tech.Land can accelerate adoption and strengthen Europe’s competitive position.</p><p>Marieke Smidt, EDIH Boost East Netherlands / Oost NL: <i>“ADRF25 brought together communities that are essential for Europe’s AI, data and robotics agenda. By working closely with AI Hubs, AI factories, TEFs, EEN and initiatives like TECH.LAND, EDIH 2.0 will help companies adopt AI, data and robotics faster, strengthen innovation, and create lasting impact.”</i></p><h2>Showcasing the strength of European digital ecosystems</h2><p>From exploring best practices in digital competitiveness to highlighting cross-border cooperation, the East Netherlands team showed how regional ecosystems can drive European-scale impact — when they are connected.</p><h2>Looking ahead</h2><p>By linking AI Hubs, EDIHs, TEFs and other European networks, the East Netherlands is helping to make Europe’s digital transformation faster, more inclusive and more impactful.</p><p>We look forward to continuing this collaboration — with the East Netherlands as a committed partner in building Europe’s digital future.</p>

Linking AI Hubs, EDIHs and TEFs: How the East Netherlands Turns Networks into Impact at ADRF25