Strengthening Partnerships for Innovation and Societal Impact

The UK and the Netherlands share a rich history of collaboration in higher education and research. Both nations are global leaders in research excellence, yet face common challenges in turning knowledge into real-world impact. This mission brings together senior leaders from universities, research councils, and innovation agencies to explore how we can deepen partnerships, accelerate valorisation, and drive social innovation.

Building on the success of the UUKi mission in 2024, this two-day event will focus on From Research to Impact: Building Strategic Partnerships for Innovation and Societal Benefit. Through panels, showcases, and site visits, participants will exchange best practices, identify opportunities for joint projects, and shape the future of UK–Dutch collaboration.

Why Attend?

  • Engage with senior leaders from UK and Dutch higher education institutes.
  • Explore strategies for research impact and commercialisation.
  • Discover innovative approaches to social and economic challenges.
  • Build partnerships that deliver real societal benefits.

Agenda

Day One – 4 February 2026 - Strategic Dialogue and Networking 

13:00 | Lunch & Registration
14:00 | Welcome Address & Opening Remarks
14:30 | Panel 1: From Research to Impact – Building Effective Partnerships
15:30 | Innovation Showcase
16:15 | Panel 2: Driving Social Innovation – Universities and the Third Mission
18:00 | Networking Reception
19:00 | Formal Dinner

Day Two – 5 February 2026 - Deep Dive and Site Visit 

09:30 | Briefing on UK-Netherlands cooperation in Horizon Europe
10:30 | Site visit to innovation hub in Amsterdam
11:30 | Break
12:00 | Lunch and roundtable on building partnerships for future UK-Dutch collaborations
14:00 | Closing remarks 

Join us in Amsterdam on 4 and 5 February 2026 to shape the next chapter of UK–Netherlands collaboration in education and research.