Prejudices in facial recognition and recruitment systems. Accidents involving self-driving cars. This type of failure shows that much remains to be done in the development of AI. The fastest way of moving that development forward is for AI and people to work closely together.

When self-driving cars were first introduced, we were all very impressed by what was possible at the time. And rightly so! Since then, the AI technology for autonomous systems has made huge progress. But a vehicle that is able to find its way and transport its passengers safely from A to B, without any human input? We’ve not yet reached that stage. Current AI technology is still too limited for that. Let’s not forget the accidents involving cars that have partly taken on the responsibility of driving from people.

Artificial intelligence and moral decisions

At an ethical level, too, AI still has a long way to go. When a person is behind the wheel in a dangerous situation, they don’t just look at what is the safest option is for them. They will think about other road users too. In some cases, they will have to make a moral decision. AI is not yet capable of that. The big question is how to program moral decisions into the software of a self-driving car. And is that actually a desirable thing to do? This is the kind of ethical dilemma facing developers. Not just in the case of self-driving cars, but also with other AI-controlled systems, such as robots.

Four areas of focus for autonomous AI

At TNO, we are currently developing hybrid AI algorithms (a combination of machine learning, symbolic reasoning, and domain knowledge) and software with which autonomous systems are able to operate safely and effectively in an open environment, without any direct human intervention. In doing so, we are focusing on four aspects:

1. Environmental awareness – recognising previously unidentified objects and situations.
2. Self-awareness – reliably assessing one’s own competencies.
3. Decision making – planning actions that are safe and effective.
4. System integration – implementing real-time hybrid AI algorithms for environmental awareness, self-awareness, and decision-making for commercially available robots.

Accelerating innovation and putting the Northern Netherlands on the map as a leader in autonomous systems; that is the ambition of INFINITECH, the umbrella under which companies develop products and systems together, on a project basis.

In Groningen, Friesland and Drenthe, wonderful innovations are being created, new products are being developed and processes improved. But can it get any better? Yes, says the industry. It can be better if we start collaborating in key areas. That is the best way to deal with all the challenges that face us.

Frontrunners and knowledge institutions

INFINITECH is the answer, with Philips and Demcon, among others, as key triggers. ‘This initiative comes from the industry, and is supported by the NOM,’ says Bas Snijders, who has been appointed as a scout for INFINITECH. ‘Meanwhile, several interesting tech companies have already joined as well as the University of Groningen (RUG) and TNO. We all see the opportunities here.’

By testing concepts and methods jointly and on a project basis, and simultaneously developing products and components, the development process can be accelerated. In the process, the expertise of multiple companies is utilized and knowledge is exchanged. Where necessary, this is supplemented with knowledge from the RUG and from other knowledge institutions such as the universities of applied sciences and TNO. The focus here is not on the development of new technology but on its implementation and integration in order to achieve innovative products and components.

New way of cooperation

André Harmens is involved on behalf of NOM. ‘This way of development is new for many companies. They are used to developing their own products independently. But by setting up a project team, with engineers from multiple companies, you have access to a larger team with broader knowledge. This accelerates innovation and leads to better solutions. This process has already proven itself in NXTGEN HIGHTECH, a large program supported by the National Growth Fund in which several northern companies are also participating.’

What makes INFINITECH special, says Bas Snijders, is that the initiative originated from the industry itself. The first companies have already joined and more and more are showing interest. ‘When you see all that is coming our way, such as the tightness in the labor market and global competition, cooperation is an obvious choice. By organizing it well, you can facilitate cooperation by theme, across sectors.’

A recognizable label

INFINITECH will be an umbrella under which forces will be combined. It is a label that will provide national and international exposure and recognition. We are working closely with EDIH North, the European Digital Innovation Hub, among others, which also has ‘autonomous systems’ as its spearhead.

INFINITECH is now in the preparatory phase. It is expected that the first substantive projects can be started in 2026. In addition, the intention is to realize a development and test site in each of the three northern provinces. Snijders: ‘There, engineers from different companies will meet to work on joint innovations. Students and experts from the RUG and from other knowledge institutions can also offer their support there.’

Initial focus: industrial sector

INFINITECH’s initial focus is on the industry sector, thus linking the initiative to and reinforcing the activities within NXTGEN HIGHTECH. Bas Snijders: ‘It’s about increasing productivity in industry, improving the quality of end products and accelerating market introduction. In addition, the emphasis is on increasing the flexibility and resilience of production processes, as well as better support for people in the work process. For example, through technologies that optimize the cooperation between man and machine. This is all in the interest of the competitive position of the North. The industrial sector is the starting point, followed quickly by other focus areas. This fits perfectly with the broader theme of ‘autonomous systems’ that the Northern Netherlands has embraced.

INFINITECH will be an association or foundation with an explicit focus on the companies. André Harmens: “This is so important. It is not the intention that this initiative will stop after a few years. We are going for the long term!’

Additive manufacturing (AM) – including 3D printing – has the potential to be a major disrupter for the manufacturing industry. Yet AM isn’t as disruptive as it could be. The primary reason? Post-production of 3D-printed components is still prohibitively expensive, time-consuming, and slow. TNO is partnering with automation scale-up AM-Flow to offer SMEs and OEMs the opportunity to explore the potential of flexible, integrated, automated post-production in a low-cost, low-risk environment.

Meeting the need

AM is often more digital than conventional manufacturing and offers the ability to quickly produce an infinite variety of geometries on demand. However, processing such an unlimited variety of products and bridging the gap between n=1 and mass manufacturing can be a real challenge. Although many manufacturers already utilise 3D printing and digital technologies at the front end of their manufacturing processes, no company has yet found a solution for the time-consuming and costly processing of all those different parts on the back end. From cleaning the components after printing to properly sorting, inspecting, labelling, and packaging them, manual labour is still required. Processes are often slow and prone to error.

While many SMEs and large OEMs are interested in exploring high-mix manufacturing of three-dimensional parts and automated post-production, it is simply too risky for them to invest in it themselves. Setting up a fully automated post-production process – especially for high-complexity, high-mix, high-tech components – is costly and requires specific equipment setups. If a company builds such a set-up, they must first be certain that automation is right for their particular product and market.

PPP for progress

Experts from TNO Smart Industry formed a public/private partnership (PPP) with AM-Flow to help bridge this gap and enable SMEs and OEMs to explore the potential of a fully integrated and automated system in an open testbed. In this way, companies can uncover whether automated and integrated techniques can be as cost-effective, efficient, and scalable as suspected, before they invest in the equipment needed to enable it.

The Smart End-2-End Additive Manufacturing Innovation Industry 4.0 Centre (SEAMIIC) testbed will bridge the gap between advanced individual process steps and fully integrated automation. With a particular focus on hyper-efficient post-production, SEAMIIC aims to bring fully connected, Industry 4.0 solutions to SMEs that may otherwise not have the resources to explore the technology’s potential. Large high-tech companies can also benefit from the testbed to enable better business case planning and faster implementation. In addition, the data collected in the testbed will feed AI systems to make post-production processes even more effective, efficient, and scalable.

‘The digitally connected equipment and production processes in SEAMIIC make it easier to integrate new technologies, like AI, to keep systems scalable and flexible for future innovations.’ Jeroen Broekhuijsen – Senior Business Consultant, TNO

Complementary expertise

In SEAMIIC, AM-Flow brings the base technology needed to automate the individual steps of post-production: from sorting the printed parts to quality control to packaging. TNO brings smart manufacturing essentials like robotics, data and AI, smart sensors and optomechatronics that can connect the individual stations together and to outside suppliers, collect essential data for optimisation, enable the stations to communicate effectively with each other, and develop a true Industry 4.0 solution.

SEAMIIC offers SMEs and OEMs a ‘test before you invest’ opportunity to uncover what benefits integrated automation can bring to their specific processes. TNO is also exploring ways to further improve AM-Flow’s inspection capabilities with 3D cameras and ultrasound technology, which would not only determine if a product has the right physical specifications, but also the structural integrity that is required – something that current systems cannot provide.

Human-centric technology

Perhaps most importantly, TNO offers its expertise in operator-centric design. In SEAMIIC, TNO is enabling the integration of instant digital work instructions, troubleshooting data, AI, and more to help operators do their work more effectively, efficiently, and at higher speed and accuracy. In this way, automation does not replace human workers, but rather makes their work much more effective and enjoyable.

After testing the solution, SMEs and OEMs receive detailed system requirements and specifications to build their own Industry 4.0 post-production system. SEAMIIC not only offers insight into how the technology can save time and costs and reduce waste, but also a glimpse into how to better utilise human workers, make their jobs more effective and less monotonous, and reduce errors through highly detailed, AI-driven work instructions and defect detection.

Beyond Additive Manufacturing

The SEAMIIC partners also see significant opportunities for companies with extensive repair and refurbishment processes. The same technology that can automate AM post-production can also be used to automate return flows. It can bring precision, speed, and accuracy to complex sorting, inspection, and distribution of replacement components and returned parts, further reducing waste and ensuring the optimisation of these often time-consuming and costly processes. The AI-enabled system and data-driven software can identify roadblocks and streamline processes for higher levels of efficiency.

In the end, SEAMIIC aims to help AM become the true disrupter that it is purported to be: by connecting the digital front-end of production to the labour-intensive back-end, manufacturers can take a significant step towards ‘dark factories’ – fully automated factories with interoperable systems that connect each member of the supply chain, acquire components from various suppliers, produce on demand, and distribute to each recipient. In particular, industries like semicon, automotive, and even defence have been identified as potential beneficiaries of this revolutionary methodology. But first, manufacturers must confirm that integrated automation is right for their specific process – something they will now be able to do through SEAMIIC.

‘Through SEAMIIC, companies can innovate in ways that give them a competitive advantage, not only in 3D-printed materials but in return flows for repair and refurbishment.’ Mark Courage – Director Smart Industry, TNO

Future focus

Made possible in part through funding from the PPS supplement scheme for PPPs from Holland High Tech | TKI HSTM, the SEAMIIC testbed will be ready to welcome interested SMEs and OEMs in early 2026. Until then, individual components of the system are being tested in operating factories to build robust data profiles and optimise the individual steps of the process.

For TNO, the SEAMIIC project is a prime example of our effort to not only strengthen existing value chains, but to also create new value chains that are sustainable, resilient, and efficient to boost the Netherlands’ position in manufacturing. TNO’s unique ability to view and analyse the entire production chain will enable SMEs to gain competitive footing and ensure that production processes in manufacturing can be scaled faster, more simply, and more cost-effectively.

he advance of autonomous systems is unstoppable. Instead of a competitive advantage, autonomous systems will soon be a basic requirement to remain relevant and face complex tasks. ‘The Northern Netherlands is strategically well positioned to play a pioneering role.’

Not because it can be done, but because it brings great benefits to companies and organizations. From that science, autonomous systems are increasingly embraced as an answer to complex and urgent issues. The applications are as diverse as they are impactful: from predictive maintenance in the manufacturing industry to self-driving public transportation that enhances livability in rural areas.

‘The coming years will be about the development and implementation of autonomous systems in many sectors,’ says Hans Praat. ‘About self-learning and independently operating processes, to be precise. Simply because they make work more efficient, more sustainable and less labor-intensive. Where previously you deployed people, soon you will be deploying smart systems. It is not a choice, but an economic necessity. The companies that realize this will be the winners of tomorrow.’

Primary processes

Whether it’s industry, medical care, agriculture, energy or our living environment: we are facing major challenges everywhere. At the same time, the Netherlands is aging rapidly. In other words: we have to do a lot with fewer and fewer people. The solution lies in self-learning and independent processes that automatically adapt to changing circumstances. Robots and drones are just the tip of the iceberg; the essence of autonomous systems lies in their ability to intelligently and independently control and optimize primary processes. This is great, because it means we can keep earning power intact into the future.

The traditional one-time transaction is giving way to long-term collaborations and new business models.Hans talks, NOM

The traditional economy is reaching its limits, that much is clear. We are at a tipping point: personnel shortages are increasing, production costs are rising and customers are demanding more and more customization and shorter delivery times. The only way to stay competitive is to work smarter. Think of self-learning production lines that maximize output and quality. Intelligent logistics systems that determine the optimal route themselves. Or autonomous precision systems in agriculture that give crops exactly the right amount of water and nutrients. Systems that make companies more agile, productive and sustainable. Exactly what the market demands now that we are on the eve of a so-called Autonomous Economy.

Inevitable reality

‘The focus is mainly on the northern manufacturing industry,’ says Hans.’ And then in particular on supporting companies in developing autonomous systems, including building associated ecosystems and innovation programs. In terms of technology, I am not so much a content expert, but I know very well who are. By listening carefully to the right people and picking up ideas, you know early on where and why there are opportunities and bottlenecks in the field. It quickly became clear that autonomous systems will play a key role in the future economy and society. Not as a futuristic concept, but as a concrete and inevitable reality that is already taking shape in factories, on fields and on water.’

Other business models

The opportunities and challenges are numerous, especially for machine builders. After all, they need to develop an autonomous version of their current product range. Step by step, together with their customers. This involves significant changes. For example, a machine builder truly becomes a solution provider and no longer just a machine provider. ‘The traditional one-time transaction is making way for long-term partnerships and new revenue models,’ Hans clarifies. ‘At the same time, as a machine builder you are co-owner of your customers’ process. That means you have to finance autonomous systems differently, too.’

Forerunner

Of course, the transition to autonomous systems does not happen overnight. It is a gradual process, in which an ever closer network of initiatives and organizations is helping Northern Netherlands companies achieve their ambitions. Like EDIH NN that offers regional companies concrete support in their digitization issues and the development and use of autonomous systems. Or the Innovation Cluster Drachten (ICD) where companies work on practical applications for autonomous systems, while the RUG again provides fundamental research in the field of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.

‘The Northern Netherlands is strategically well positioned to play a pioneering role in the development and implementation of autonomous systems,’ says Hans. ‘Not only have we established some unique partnerships here, but we also have a strong SME, with many niche players operating globally.’

According to Hans, now is the right time to build on that position and put autonomous systems even more firmly on the agenda. ‘Hence the National Autonomous Systems Congress that brings together frontrunners from various sectors. We were even able to rope in Boston Dynamics, the company behind the most advanced humanoid robots in the world. Their presence illustrates that we in the Northern Netherlands are taken seriously on the global stage of autonomous systems.’

Autonomous (unmanned) systems are changing the way we work, live, build our businesses and conduct research. They also bring societal challenges, such as digital security, ethics and human interaction with systems.

This spring, on April 2, 2025, the first edition of the National Autonomous Systems Congress will start in Drachten, bringing together professionals from industry, science and the social field to explore the opportunities and challenges of autonomous technology in its broadest sense. This congress is the springboard to autonomous systems and is probably the first event of this magnitude in the EU. A great time, then, to reflect on what autonomous systems actually are, what “autonomous technology” means to us.

What are autonomous systems?

Autonomous systems are technologies (software in conjunction with hardware) that can function independently without constant human intervention. The best-known example is the self-driving car, but today there are significant advances being made on all fronts. From drones that inspect infrastructure and detect damage before we can, from robots that assemble products to assistants that support healthcare workers. These are the core technologies of the future. What makes it so interesting is how these systems will reshape our work and interactions with technology.

The depth of autonomy

Therefore, it is important to understand the depth of autonomy. There is not just one kind of autonomy. We are dealing with a spectrum. The degree of autonomy can vary depending on the technology and the purpose of the system. From systems that simply assist in tasks (such as automated customer service) to systems that can operate and learn completely independently (such as a fully self-regulating warehouse where the lights could be turned off). Autonomous systems are often classified on a scale ranging from level 0 (fully manual operation) to level 5 (fully autonomous systems, with no human intervention). So the shift to a more autonomous world is not black and white, but a constantly evolving process.

Over the years, technology has improved significantly, and although most autonomous systems do not currently operate fully independently, the direction is clear: The world is moving toward full autonomy in various sectors. In a world where the pursuit of efficiency, safety and sustainability is becoming increasingly important, autonomous systems are here to stay.

The building blocks of autonomy

• Artificial Intelligence (AI), specifically Machine Learning (ML): The backbone of autonomous systems. AI enables these systems to recognize patterns, make decisions and learn from their environment.
• Sensor fusion: LiDAR, radar and advanced cameras make it possible to create a detailed and dynamic map of the environment.
• Edge Computing: Data is processed directly at the source instead of waiting for a central server, which is essential for real-time decision-making.
• Autonomous software architectures: Secure, robust and self-adaptable software enables autonomous systems to operate without human intervention.

The economic impact: efficiency, innovation and employment

If you look at the history of technology, you see a pattern: automation has always evoked a mix of fear and optimism. When steam engines transformed factories, people thought jobs would disappear. When computers invaded offices, we feared mass unemployment.

But what happened again and again was economic restructuring. Efficiency increased, new sectors emerged, and human labor shifted from repetitive to creative and strategic work. Autonomous systems are going to repeat that pattern, but on a much larger scale.

Think logistics: autonomous trucks and warehouse robots shorten delivery times and reduce costs. Think healthcare: AI-driven diagnostic systems help doctors work faster and more precisely. Think agriculture: autonomous tractors and drones optimize crops and minimize waste.

The point is: this is not just about cutting costs or increasing productivity. This is about a fundamentally new way of working and producing, in which speed, precision and adaptability become the core of economic activity.

Northern Netherlands as an incubator for autonomous technology

In recent years, the Northern Netherlands has focused heavily on autonomous systems, as the region has a strong industrial and technological base on the one hand and a proactive approach to digital innovation and sustainability on the other. Both industry leaders and policymakers support this focus, as autonomous technologies not only stimulate economic growth but also contribute to societal challenges such as aging and labor shortages.

The Northern Netherlands has an increasingly robust ecosystem with organizations and initiatives such as:

• Innovation Cluster Drachten (ICD): brings together high-tech companies to develop new autonomous applications.
• EDIH NN (European Digital Innovation Hub North Netherlands): supports companies in implementing autonomous systems.
• University of Groningen and High Schools: working on cutting-edge research in AI, software and systems engineering and robotics.
• Fieldlabs: provide testing environments where companies and researchers can validate new technologies in realistic scenarios.

There are also major initiatives under development, such as Infinitech, a knowledge center focused on the autonomous manufacturing industry, AI Factory and Project Beethoven.

The Northern Netherlands is not waiting. It is actively building a future where autonomous technologies are not only possible, but are becoming the norm.

Boston Dynamics: The Face of Autonomous Engineering and Robotics

You’ve probably come across a video online of a humanoid robot that can defy obstacles and even somersault. That’s Atlas from Boston Dynamics. When it comes to autonomous robots, Boston Dynamics is a name known around the world. The American company, which has Google X, Softbank and Hyundai as owners, is taking the world by storm with their groundbreaking mobile robotics development…:

• Spot: A robot dog that can navigate complex environments and is widely used for inspection and automation.
• Stretch: An advanced logistics robot designed specifically for loading and unloading packages, making warehouse processes more efficient.
• Atlas: A humanoid robot with impressive agility and freedom of movement, able to perform increasingly sophisticated tasks independently.

At the National Autonomous Systems Congress, Aaron Saunders, Chief Technology Officer of Boston Dynamics, will share his vision for the future of autonomous systems. He will address how these technologies will radically change the way we work, produce and interact with machines.

A glimpse of Atlas:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=tF4DML7FIWk%3Ffeature%3Doembed

What does the National Congress on Autonomous Systems have to offer you?

On April 2 in Drachten, users, technology suppliers, companies, scientists and policy makers will come together to discover the potential of autonomous systems and how we can deploy them responsibly and effectively.

Autonomous systems are changing the way we live and work. They will increase productivity, automate tasks and create new industries. But they will also raise fundamental questions about work, ethics and human interaction with technology.

The question is not whether this change will happen. The question is how we deal with it. How do we ensure that autonomy not only creates efficiency, but also a fair and inclusive future? How do we harness the power of these systems without losing control of them? These are the questions discussed at the National Congress on Autonomous Systems.

• Keynotes from a world leader in autonomous technology, Aaron Saunders, CTO of Boston Dynamics.
• Three thematic tracks: industry, science and society.
• Live demonstrations of the latest autonomous systems in action.
• Networking opportunities with leaders, investors and policy makers who are shaping the future.

How can you participate in the conference?

Do you want to be on the front lines of the autonomy revolution? Tickets for the National Autonomous Systems Congress are available through.

National Autonomous Systems Congress brings pioneers together in Drachten to explore the impact and potential of autonomous systems.

Autonomous systems are playing an increasing role in our economy and society. From the medical sector to the manufacturing industry, from agriculture to energy supply and logistics – applications are emerging everywhere that make work more efficient, sustainable and less labor-intensive. Are we on the eve of an ‘Autonomy Economy’? The Netherlands seems well positioned to play a leading role in this. During the first National Autonomous Systems Congress, on April 2, 2025, in Schouwburg De Lawei in Drachten, companies, scientists and policy makers will come together to discover how autonomous systems can be deployed responsibly and effectively.

Complex challenges

Innovation Cluster Drachten, European Digital Innovation Hub, AI-Hub Noord-Nederland, @North, University of Groningen and the NOM are responsible for organizing the event. Everything revolves around the impact autonomous technologies have, says Hans Praat (NOM) on behalf of the organizing team. “We believe in the power of autonomous systems to solve complex challenges, and not just because we will soon have too few people to do the work.” According to him, autonomy provides a solution to social issues, such as mobility, energy and manufacturing, and represents an opportunity for technology providers to strengthen their position. “Users are excited and can’t wait, while providers seize the opportunity to expand their role as solution providers. The Netherlands seems well positioned to become a forerunner in the Autonomy Economy. In fact, we already are.”

Pioneers on stage

During the conference, frontrunners from various sectors will be on stage. For example, Sergio Ooijens of Lely will start with a presentation on how their autonomous milking and feeding robots make dairy farming worldwide more efficient, sustainable and animal-friendly. Another notable speaker was Carl Berlo, CEO of 247TailorSteel, who developed a fully autonomous manufacturing system that allows customers to place orders online and control production. “247TailorSteel has set the new standard in the sheet metal industry and is now the largest player in Europe,” Praat said.

Eindhoven-based startup Avular is another interesting player. “If it is up to Avular, the Netherlands will become a robot country,” Praat stated. The company develops modular autonomous robots and drones that can be flexibly deployed in the agriculture, inspection, and logistics sectors. Another impressive example comes from Bollegraaf and Lubo Recycling Solutions, frontrunners in AI-driven autonomous recycling plants. Top executive Edmund Tenfelde will explain at the conference how their systems make the processing of waste to raw material more efficient.

Northern Netherlands as a breeding ground for autonomous systems

Praat sees the Northern Netherlands playing a key role in these developments: “The Northern Netherlands has a long history in the manufacturing industry. Together with the RUG, the AI hub and other partners, we are building an ecosystem where autonomy is one of the new spearheads.” The National Autonomous Systems Congress is a logical consequence of this. “We are doing this not only as NOM, but together with other partners. This congress is a way to bring the frontrunners together and position the Northern Netherlands as an innovation hub.”

Batenburg Industrial Automation Beenen is one of those frontrunners in the North. During the congress, innovation manager Thom Verwater will explain how their technology helps in the transition to autonomous production environments. Batenburg Beenen is active in industry and the agribusiness sector, where autonomous robots are playing an increasing role.

One sector where autonomy is already having a considerable impact is logistics. Vanderlande, world market leader in baggage handling systems and warehouse logistics, will show at the conference how autonomous systems determine the future of distribution. CTO Frank van Dijck, also president of the FEM (European Materials Handling Federation), explains how the combination of autonomy and flexibility is fundamentally changing the industry.

Boston Dynamics and the future of humanoid robots

One of the highlights of the congress is undoubtedly the keynote by Aaron Saunders, CTO of Boston Dynamics. “For the first time he is coming to the Netherlands to share his vision of how humanoid robots are transforming our world,” says Praat enthusiastically. Boston Dynamics is known worldwide for its pioneering robots, such as Atlas and Spot, which can navigate autonomously and perform complex tasks. “That he immediately said yes to our invitation shows that the Netherlands is an interesting market for this kind of development.”

In addition to industrial applications, attention will also be paid to the societal impact of autonomous technology. One of the speakers is Piet Verduyn of FME, who addresses the ethical and legal aspects of autonomy. Talk: “Labor productivity and regulation are always part of these discussions. How do we ensure that autonomy is efficient, responsible, and inclusive?”

The congress is divided into three tracks: industry, science, and society. These will cover all facets of autonomy: from the latest scientific insights to practical implementation in companies and the social issues involved.

Key role

“Autonomous systems play a key role in the future of our economy and society,” Praat said. “We are already seeing how they optimize production processes, transform healthcare and manage our living environment more efficiently. During the National Autonomous Systems Congress, we will bring together the forerunners and try to establish a national agenda so that the Netherlands can become a major player in the upcoming Autonomy Economy.”

He has his answer ready for people still in doubt about the role the Netherlands can play in this field: “Nothing happens by itself, except autonomous systems”

he Netherlands is taking a major step forward in the world of autonomous systems with the announcement that Aaron Saunders, Chief Technology Officer of world-renowned Boston Dynamics, will give a keynote address at the National Autonomous Systems 2025 Congress. The congress will take place on April 2, 2025 at Schouwburg De Lawei in Drachten.

Boston Dynamics is a global leader in advanced robotics and autonomous systems. Saunders’ arrival underlines the importance of the Netherlands as an innovative and economically powerful technology country and the potential of the Netherlands as a forerunner in the Autonomy Economy. At a time when autonomous systems are becoming increasingly important for industry, logistics and mobility, the Netherlands offers fertile ground for development and implementation.

The Netherlands as a hotspot for autonomous systems

Firm efforts are being made to strengthen the Netherlands as a leader in autonomous technologies. Through cooperation between industry, startups and knowledge institutions, the Netherlands is becoming increasingly attractive to international technology companies and investors.

“Autonomous systems are not only technology of the future, they are the business case of today. Companies that capitalize on them not only remain relevant, but lead the way. In the regions, we see that innovation and employment go hand in hand-from high-tech startups to established manufacturing industries that operate autonomously. We have the people, the knowledge and the drive here to make the Netherlands the hotspot for autonomous technology. This conference shows: those who want to get ahead, look to autonomy” said Dina Boonstra, director NOM, on behalf of ROM-Netherlands.

The Netherlands has numerous fine examples of companies that are leading the way in autonomous systems, both large and small. A striking example is Bollegraaf Recycling Solutions from Appingedam. Thanks to the use of AI and autonomous technology, Bollegraaf supplies complete factories around the world in which waste is reprocessed into reusable raw materials.

Hilde van der Meer, commissioner Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA): “The arrival of Aaron Saunders in the Netherlands is a signal that our innovation climate is recognized internationally. The Netherlands offers not only strong knowledge and infrastructure, but also a dynamic ecosystem where high-tech companies and talent flourish.”

Autonomous systems in industry and society 

Autonomous systems are essential to the future economy and society. They are of great importance in various sectors, from medicine to manufacturing, and from agriculture to energy supply. Autonomous technologies make our work more efficient, sustainable and less labor-intensive. The conference brings together users, technology suppliers, companies, scientists and policy makers to explore the possibilities of autonomous systems.

The program also includes three tracks focused on industry, science and society. In the industry track, companies such as Lely, Avular, 247Tailorsteel and Vanderlande present their solutions. The science track offers insight into the role of AI in autonomous systems with presentations from the University of Groningen and TU Eindhoven. The society track covers ethics and legislation with speakers from Qbuzz, UMCG, CNV and the NL AI Coalition.

The conference is organized by the Drachten Innovation Cluster, EDIH Noord-Nederland, University of Groningen, AI Hub Noord Nederland, NOM and @North.