Newsletter December 2025

Wennink plan: Life Sciences and biotechnology are important growth drivers for the earning capacity of the Netherlands

The Dutch life sciences and biotech sector has the potential to contribute far more strongly to the Netherlands’ earning capacity. This is evident from a new growth strategy presented in an advisory report by Peter Wennink, which identifies Utrecht Science Park as one of the country’s key innovation hubs. With targeted investments, improved conditions, and fewer barriers, the sector can grow into an international leader.

On Sunday, 31 May 2026, Utrecht will once again be all about the HiPRO Utrecht Marathon supported by Utrecht Science Park. Following several successful editions, this year’s event features a special addition: the Dutch Half Marathon Championships. From recreational runners to elite athletes, young and old, everyone is welcome. Registration is now open. Read more and join in.

Date announced for Utrecht Science Week 2026: 25 September to 4 October

The fifth edition of Utrecht Science Week was a great success.

For more than a week, visitors took part in inspiring events focused on (applied) science, innovation, health, and sustainability at Utrecht Science Park. We are already looking ahead to the next edition of Utrecht Science Week, which will take place from Friday 25 September through Sunday 4 October 2026.

Laigo Bio, a start-up based at Utrecht Science Park in the Life Sciences Incubator building, has announced that it has raised €11.5 million in funding from a number of leading investors. The investment will be used to further develop Laigo Bio’s therapies, which are based on its patented SureTAC™ technology.

Ronald McDonald House Utrecht is building toward its future. At Utrecht Science Park, next to the Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital and within walking distance of the Princess Máxima Center, Ronald McDonald House Utrecht has advanced plans to develop a completely new, sustainable House with 50 guest rooms. Preparations are well underway, and construction is scheduled to start in the second half of 2026.

Researcher Johan Garssen of Utrecht University has been appointed Officer of the Order of Agricultural Merit by the French government. Garssen received this prestigious distinction in recognition of his exceptional contributions to agriculture, nutrition, health, and international cooperation. The award was presented today by the French Ambassador to the Netherlands.

Over the coming years, a large part of UMC Utrecht will be renovated, redeveloped, or newly built. The renewal and redesign of UMC Utrecht align with the Utrecht Science Park Environmental Vision 2040. These plans contribute to a future-proof, sustainable, and green hospital while strengthening the continued development of Utrecht Science Park as a place for healthcare, research, education, and connection.

The Botanical Gardens will enter their winter closure starting Monday, 1 December 2025. You are warmly welcome again from Sunday, 1 March 2026. During the winter closure, major maintenance and new developments will take place in the Gardens. Employees of Utrecht University, UMC Utrecht, and Utrecht Science Park partners will continue to have free access to the Gardens.

From 1 January 2026, parking rates at Utrecht Science Park will be adjusted. The Municipality of Utrecht and the owners of the publicly accessible parking facilities at Utrecht Science Park have made joint agreements on these changes. This adjustment is being implemented collectively by the parties involved and aligns with the agreements with the Municipality of Utrecht regarding parking in the city.