In the last issue, we explored how Eindhoven and Waterloo structured a partnership that produced measurable economic impact for both communities. Here we discuss the more ambitious goals they set for building technology expertise to power future growth.

While the business attraction and two-way trade opportunities continue to be pursued on both ends, other levels of collaboration have been launched on the Talent agenda.

While the business attraction and two-way trade opportunities continue to be pursued on both ends, other levels of collaboration have been launched on the Talent agenda.

In May 2015, the well-known Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI) signed an MOU with Brainport School Incorporated to share best practices and participate in PI’s outreach programs(1). Most knowledge based economies recognize that 21st century skills need to be incorporated into the school curriculum to meet the changing needs of the labour force. Via close collaboration with companies, students develop an explorative and entrepreneurial attitude while working on projects within a real life context. This particular collaboration between PI and the Brainport schools brought a top physics teacher and government stakeholder to Waterloo Region to participate in the Einstein+ and the ISSYP (student summer school for top physics talents) program for high school students. By participating in these programs, the Dutch representatives will be able to implement parts of this valuable educational outreach in their own community, thereby incentivizing more students to participate in STEM-focused activities.

In addition to this the parties have agreed to set up a teacher network and teacher community in Brainport with PI. They are also exploring the possibilities of setting up a European hub for the top talent summer school program of PI as part of a Brainport Experience Program.

As the momentum grows between our communities, individuals and organizations will identify low hanging fruit and pursue these outside of the official realm of the relationship.

This is a long term commitment between Waterloo Region and the Brainport Eindhoven region, one that is based on trust, success and goes beyond individuals steering tasks. Stakeholders need to see the value in this unique form of targeted international economic development and how they can benefit from the vast and trustworthy relationships that have been established.

What’s the value proposition?

• Strengthening international relations
• Creating valuable networks for investment and 2-way trade
• Sharing best practices
• Leveraging knowledge and relationships
• Providing access to markets

Media Coverage & Blog Contributions:

• http://www.dichtbij.nl/eindhoven/regionaal-nieuws/artikel/3077234/canadese-delegatie-bezoekt-brainport-regio-eindhoven.aspx
• http://www.waterloochronicle.ca/news/region-inks-deal-with-dutch-after-royal-visit-to-waterloo/
• http://www.therecord.com/news-story/5634503-dutch-king-and-queen-to-visit-waterloo-region/
• http://www.therecord.com/news-story/5649476-dutch-visit-to-university-of-waterloo-commemorates-canada-netherlands-bond/
• http://www.therecord.com/news-story/5598118-dutch-startup-sets-up-shop-in-waterloo-region/
• http://nextgeneration.brainport.nl/stories/talent-attraction-3-0-a-once-in-a-lifetime-experience
• http://nextgeneration.brainport.nl/stories/bringing-curiosity-back-into-the-classroom
• http://www.hightechcampus.com/nieuws_high_tech_campus-main/105/robotics_postcard_to_waterloo__canada/
• http://www.bom.nl/over-bom/actueel/306/barrday-sets-up-new-european-hub-in-brabant