The winners will be revealed on 24 November 2025 during the BID (Big Improvement Day) National Innovation Gala. There are 2 categories for the 20 nominees: small and medium-sized businesses, and established large businesses.

ACBI data

The Dutch Innovation Award is based on the findings of the Dutch Innovation Monitor, the annual large-scale study conducted by ACBI at the UvA’s Amsterdam Business School. This long-term research provides deep insights into how Dutch companies innovate and adapt to rapid technological, economic and societal change. It also reflects the university’s commitment to advancing evidence-based innovation and connecting academic knowledge to real-world business practices.

Nominees

‘The nominees show that innovation in the Netherlands is vibrant and resilient. They combine creativity with sustainable impact and strong leadership. These are the companies shaping the future of our economy,’ says Henk Volberda, Professor of Strategic Management and Innovation at the University of Amsterdam. Volberda is also Chair of the Dutch Innovation Award jury.

The jury, composed of experts from academia (including UvA Economics and Business dean Roel Beetsma), government and business, selected companies that excel in fields such as digital transformation, renewable energy, health technology and AI-driven solutions. They represent both established large enterprises and agile small and medium-sized businesses — all at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the Netherlands.

Beyond the awards, the University of Amsterdam plays a central role in driving collaboration between knowledge institutions, business and government. This year, the UvA and Sportinnovator — the national network that connects sport, research and industry — will co-host a special session, ‘Teaming up for NL Innovation,’ ahead of the gala. The session offers participants the chance to explore how universities and partners can work together on innovation that benefits society.

‘This is a fantastic opportunity to help the Netherlands move forward by fostering collaboration between universities, businesses and societal organisations,’ says Beetsma.

The National Innovation Gala, an initiative of Big Improvement Day, aims to accelerate innovation through partnerships that connect people, ideas and resources. During the event, the winners of the Dutch Innovation Award 2025 will be celebrated, and all nominees will receive the BID Innovation Award as recognition for their contributions to a more sustainable and future-ready Netherlands.

About the Amsterdam Centre for Business Innovation

One of ACBI's activities is investigating how organisations, sectors and regions can strengthen their innovation capacity and translates scientific insights into practical strategies for business leaders and policymakers. Its flagship initiative, the Dutch Innovation Monitor, serves as a key benchmark for innovation in the Netherlands, focusing on themes such as digital transformation, strategic renewal and purpose-driven sustainable value creation.