Heart of Brabant leads the way in the transition to a future-proof economy

In the NEx-T Index, all indicators for Heart of Brabant are in the green. The region scores exceptionally well on:

Otto Raspe, Head of RaboResearch, explains: “Heart of Brabant has all the ingredients to grow economically, socially, and ecologically in balance. Regional collaboration between businesses, education, government, and citizens is key. The Regio Deal between Midpoint Brabant and the Dutch government is a great example, with strong contributions from Tilburg University, the municipalities of Tilburg and Waalwijk, and initiatives like MindLabs, Smart Port Waalwijk, and neighborhood-based programs to improve social security.”

 

Bas van der Pol, Tilburg’s Alderman for Economy and Chair of the Regio Deal, adds: “I’m proud that our joint regional strategy is delivering measurable results. We’re building a new economy focused on sustainable earning capacity and broad prosperity. That means encouraging entrepreneurship with societal impact. In Tilburg, we pay special attention to young talent. Through the Regio Deal project ‘Startups for Society,’ partners like Tilburg University, Fontys, Avans, the municipality, and Midpoint Brabant are working together to create a thriving environment for impact-driven startups.”

Natasja Leijser, Chair of VNO-NCW Midden-Brabant and board member of Midpoint Brabant, emphasizes the region’s entrepreneurial spirit: “We’re leading the transition because our entrepreneurs care about societal progress. They collaborate, share knowledge, and support each other—often through networks and associations. With help from Midpoint Brabant, they’re making real strides in sustainability, digitalization, and talent development. It’s entrepreneurship with a long-term perspective—for business, people, and the planet.”

 

While the region excels in sustainability and inclusivity, there’s still room to grow in productivity. RaboResearch shows that Heart of Brabant lags behind regions like Greater Amsterdam and Brainport Eindhoven in labor productivity growth. Bas Kapitein, Managing Director of Midpoint Brabant, explains: “With our ‘Smarter Working’ program, we’re helping SMEs in the region boost productivity through learning networks and smarter use of people and organization.”

Thanks to its strong performance across both sustainability and productivity indicators, Heart of Brabant ranks in the national top 5—alongside Greater Amsterdam, Brainport Eindhoven, South Limburg, and the Veluwe.