The Northern Netherlands, encompassing Groningen, Friesland, and Drenthe, is experiencing a significant transformation as it increasingly becomes a hub for international talent and activity. These three provinces are now home to approximately 72,000 internationals, constituting 4% of the region’s total population. This influx of international residents is not merely a temporary phenomenon but a crucial driver of the region’s economy and social fabric.
Internationals are vital to the North’s knowledge economy. Major educational institutions like the University of Groningen (RUG) and Hanze University of Applied Sciences attract over 12,000 international students, with RUG alone hosting around 8,250. Many of these students transition into key roles in research and innovation, contributing to the thriving knowledge cluster at Campus Groningen, which comprises over 250 companies, 50,000 students, and 20,000 employees. This cluster is a leader in life sciences, energy transition, and AI development, with internationals playing a central role.
They also address critical workforce shortages. The number of international workers in the region grew significantly between 2014 and 2018, increasing from 40,000 to 53,000. Approximately 29,000 of these individuals hold positions requiring higher education, including 10,000 knowledge migrants and 5,000 international entrepreneurs. These professionals contribute to various sectors, ensuring competitiveness for SMEs and regional industries, ranging from engineers to technicians and developers. They are particularly essential in sectors like healthcare, IT, logistics, and construction.
Moreover, internationals stimulate local economies through their spending. As residents, they rent housing, purchase groceries, utilize public transport, and patronize local businesses. International students alone contribute millions of euros to the local economy annually. In cities like Groningen, where a significant portion of the population comprises students representing over 120 nationalities, internationals contribute to urban vitality, counteract demographic decline, and support small businesses across retail, hospitality, and culture.
The presence of internationals enriches the region’s social and cultural landscape. The North is becoming increasingly multilingual, multicultural, and globally connected. Events organized by groups such as ESN and IWCN, including International Welcome Weeks, food festivals, and cultural exchanges, attract thousands of participants. Organizations like the International Welcome Center North (IWCN) provide assistance to internationals with registration and permits and host numerous community events, fostering inclusion and a sense of belonging.
Retaining international talent remains a key challenge. A significant percentage of international students and workers leave the region after a few years. Regional initiatives like Make it in the North, IWCN, and Next City Groningen are actively working to address this challenge by offering job matching, housing support, and integration assistance to encourage internationals to stay long-term. The future prosperity of the Northern Netherlands is intrinsically linked to its international community. By fostering a welcoming and supportive environment, the region can fully realize the economic and social benefits that internationals bring.