In September, NoordZ magazine published a wonderful article about the 10th anniversary of the LIFE Cooperative, in which we share our growth, collaborations, and future plans. The article highlights how LIFE brings companies together and fosters innovation in the Life Sciences & Health sector. Read the full article below (in Dutch)!
It has already been ten years since LIFE Cooperative was established. The goal then, as now, was to unite Northern companies active in the Life Science & Health (LSH) sector and leverage the benefits of collaboration. These include attracting and building funds, education, investments, facilities, and projects that would be out of reach for individual parties, while fostering cross-pollination where possible. LIFE Cooperative serves as a central hub, aiming to drive growth in the sector.
As of 2024, 65 companies are affiliated with LIFE Cooperative, providing employment to more than 4,500 FTEs. “And we’re far from done growing; on the contrary,” says director Peter Ketelaar. The sector is experiencing significant growth. “We aim to grow at an above-average rate compared to the economy. So far, we’ve succeeded, achieving an average growth of 7 percent over the past ten years.” He anticipates that the number of affiliated companies will grow to 90 within the next five years, with 7,500 people working in these companies. “The sector generates around 350 vacancies annually, meaning that continuous education and training are essential. This must be done in coordination with educational institutions to ensure that the right programs are offered, aligning well with the needs of the business community.”
“It would not be feasible for each company to handle that individually,” adds Head of Business Development Ronald Hesse. “LIFE Cooperative can play a crucial role here, just as we do in supporting start-ups. Many ideas originate from UMCG and the University of Groningen, which companies then develop further. There is a lot of risk involved, particularly in terms of financing. LIFE Cooperative focuses on securing solid funding and providing guidance by setting up or attracting these funds, allowing these companies to move forward.”
“In addition, we connect start-ups with experts,” Peter Ketelaar continues. “For example, they help with drafting a solid business plan. We facilitate, provide financial resources, and offer expertise. Furthermore, we aim to exchange and connect knowledge wherever possible.”
The ultimate goal is to make the right expertise available to every company affiliated with LIFE Cooperative. It is essential to navigate regulations, financing, and subsidies. We can deliver this because of our strong network on and around Campus Groningen. Not all investments yield immediate returns, but they are necessary to remain competitive. In the Northern Netherlands, we excel in competition, particularly in drug research and development, where we are a leading player in Europe.”
One recurring theme in life sciences is the need to anticipate. “Call it innovative cutting-edge technologies,” says Ronald Hesse. “The first project we started three years ago is now coming to fruition. This means we have also tailored educational programs to align with it. It is a deep investment that allows you to stay ahead of future developments. Thanks to the solid foundation we have built in the Northern Netherlands, we are now receiving tens of millions of euros in subsidies to support various advancements.”
Ronald Hesse refers to these as untapped diamonds, which will take shape in the coming years. “Take, for example, drug delivery, where medicines are delivered precisely where they are needed. The same applies to the new genetic lab we are setting up. LIFE Cooperative is constantly in discussion with companies and knowledge centers to establish consortia, develop business plans for potentially unprofitable peaks, and secure subsidies. This helps mitigate the risks associated with often substantial investments. Moreover, it allows us to maintain the competitive edge of the Northern Netherlands' life sciences and health sector. This regional sector is uniquely positioned to make a significant leap toward a new economy.”
LIFE Cooperative is also keenly observing the Nij Begun initiatives and the positive impact they are expected to have on the development of the Northern Netherlands, particularly in the areas of economy, healthcare, culture, and education. Peter Ketelaar explains, “In this context, societal ambitions can align with the entrepreneurial goals of the Life Science sector. Nij Begun can create the conditions that allow us to realize our ambitions.”
Meanwhile, preparations for celebrating the 10th anniversary are in full swing. This will include a conference and a farewell to two pioneers who have been part of the LIFE Cooperative board since its inception: Ton Vries and Johannes Wolters. “They have a strong commitment to the North,” says Peter Ketelaar. “Over the past ten years, they have achieved a great deal for the sector. This is a sector full of opportunities, where one can work from cradle to retirement. Look around you; the Northern Netherlands offers plenty of possibilities for a rewarding career in Life Science & Health, and LIFE Cooperative is happy to contribute to that.”
Download the full article here.
Source of image and text: NoordZ. Image from left to right: Johannes Wolters, Ronald Hesse, Peter Ketelaar, and Ton Vries.
