Study Tour: Campuses, Innovation Districts and Startup Hubs 2026

On Wednesday 1 and Thursday 2 April 2026, the sixth edition of the Study Tour: Campuses, Innovation Districts and Startup Hubs will take place. This two-day programme visits leading innovation hotspots in the Southern Randstad – including MICS.

Where? Southern Randstad (Leiden – Dordrecht)
When? Wednesday 1 & Thursday 2 April 2026

Campuses as engines for economic growth

Startups and scale-ups are key drivers of economic growth. Many of these companies are based on campuses: environments where innovation, talent development and entrepreneurship come together. For public authorities, businesses and knowledge institutions, these locations provide the ideal setting to jointly strengthen regional innovation ecosystems.

Along the knowledge axis of the ‘Oude Lijn’ – with MICS as a key stop

Following five successful editions, this year’s study tour follows the knowledge axis of the historic ‘Oude Lijn’. Led by campus expert Gregor Heemskerk (Partner at TwynstraGudde), participants will visit Leiden Bio Science Park, Unmanned Valley, Titaan The Hague, Biotech Campus Delft/Planet B.io, Leerpark Dordrecht/Duurzaamheidsfabriek and the Mechatronics Innovation Campus Schiedam (MICS).

At MICS, we will demonstrate how a former industrial site is being transformed into a high-tech systems and materials campus – a place where businesses, education and talent collaborate to shape the future of advanced manufacturing. From established innovation districts to emerging campuses, practical examples will take centre stage.

Building strong campus ecosystems together

An increasing number of regions are investing in campuses and startup hubs. But how do you develop, organise and finance such an ecosystem? And what roles do public and private partners play? During the tour, we will explore themes including public–private partnerships, real estate development, community building and startup accommodation.

Topics we will discuss include:

– The role of government and market parties in campus development

– Organising effective triple helix collaboration

– Real estate and financing challenges

– Creating a culture of knowledge exchange and open innovation

– Developing vibrant campus communities

Registration is available via the organising party (dutch only) 

Curious to discover how other regions are building successful campuses and innovation districts – and how MICS fits into this landscape? Join us on 1 and 2 April.