Open up your world
Home to leading international conferences, this region thrives on the power of collaboration. More than 30.000 entrepreneurs, researchers and students work side by side in a unique ecosystem. Joined by world-renowned experts and driven by state-of-the-art R&D technologies, this community pushes boundaries. Multilingual, open minded and internationally connected — discover the four hubs where this ecosystem takes shape.
Groundbreaking innovations
At Brightlands, innovation moves faster. Entrepreneurs and researchers work on solutions for global challenges — from green chemistry and the cultivation of new artificial organs to high-tech energy-saving coatings. They also pioneer secure digital information sharing and develop new methods to boost the nutritional value of crops.
Brightlands knowledge hubs - Innovation without limits
Health & Life Sciences in Maastricht
The most European city of the Netherlands, where heritage meets science. Compact and international, with a leading academic hospital and world-class medical research institutes — all set against a backdrop of historic charm and vibrant city life.
Food & Nutrition/ Logistics in Venlo
A historic city with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a strategic cross-border location. As a major logistics hub and knowledge center for food, nutrition, and agribusiness, Venlo brings together experts, students, and institutes to drive innovation forward.
Circular Chemistry in Sittard-Geleen
Historic charm meets high-tech chemistry and circular innovation. Home to one of Europe’s largest industrial chemistry sites, driving breakthroughs in sustainable materials and processes — all with a welcoming medieval heart and vibrant community spirit.
Data Science & AI in Heerlen
An urban city defined by bold architecture, art and data-driven innovation. A European hub for data science — enriched by cultural life and green surroundings.
Connecting you to the right partners in science and hospitality
The Maastricht Convention Bureau connects people and ideas. Backed by the regional government and local municipalities, we are the official convention bureau for the cities of Maastricht, Venlo, Sittard-Geleen, and Heerlen — a trusted non-profit with more than 40 years of expertise. As your gateway to venues, hotels, knowledge institutes, and local experts from both academia and industry, we open doors and create the right connections.
Contact our teamKnowledge network - Meet local experts
Henny Beckers
Meet Henny Beckers, Professor of Ophthalmology at the University Eye Clinic in Maastricht. As an eye surgeon she prefers to focus on challenging glaucoma surgeries.
Matt Baker
Meet Matt Baker, Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator at the MERLN Institute at Maastricht University.
Kim Ragaert
Meet Kim Ragaert, Full Professor at Maastricht University and Chair of Circular Plastics at the Faculty of Science and Engineering.
Jules Harings
Jules Harings is Associate Professor and Group Leader Macromolecular Physics at Maastricht University. He works at the research institute Aachen Maastricht Institute for Biobased Materials (AMIBM).
Embedded in the region’s unique knowledge ecosystem, we connect industry, Maastricht University, knowledge institutes, and governmental bodies in a Triple Helix that drives innovation forward. We place great value on close collaboration with local experts. This gives you the opportunity to enrich your international meeting with company visits, tours, and events at the innovative Brightlands campuses.