The European Innovation Scoreboard (EIS) shows the Netherlands shines due to its digital strength, skilled talent and R&D network
The Netherlands ranks 3rd among the leading innovation countries in the European Union according to the European Innovation Scoreboard 2025 (EIS). The country placed 3rd among EU member states and 4th among the EU and neighboring countries in the annual innovation report by the European Commission.
The new report shows that the Netherlands has moved up into the top three of the innovation ranking after holding fourth place in recent years. The country continues to significantly outperform the EU average in digitalization, research and development, talent, and a competitive business environment.
Strong digital connectivity and proficiency
In fact, the Netherlands ranks first in the EU for digitalization, standing out in digital connectivity and proficiency. Some 96% of Dutch households have access to high-speed broadband (very close to top EU scores), and 57% of individuals have above-basic digital skills. The country also excels in digital infrastructure investments, ranking 5th in the share of enterprises using cloud computing services and employing IT specialists. Investments in information technologies grew substantially, highlighting strong support for technology-driven innovation.
High education and collaborative global research system
The Netherlands is internationally known for its strong education system and this is once again underscored in the EIS report. Education levels are among Europe’s highest and research standings are among the world’s best. The Netherlands’ research system remains highly attractive; it is a center of strong global research collaboration. In fact, international co-publications and foreign doctorate student rates are far above the EU average. The Netherlands ranks 1st in scientific publications among the top 10 most cited worldwide. And, it ranks 3rd in international scientific co-publications.
Robust investment in innovation is attractive for FDI
Financing and investment are crucial for innovation and here, too, the Netherlands performs above average on various fronts. The country’s competitive innovation-friendly policies support business R&D investments. Venture capital expenditures and government support of business R&D rose sharply between 2018 and 2025, spurring innovative business. Companies in the Netherlands spent more on R&D than others in the EU, a sign of their ongoing focus on innovation. The Netherlands is also focused on protecting innovation, scoring high in intellectual property rights applications
This strong innovation environment contributes to the Netherlands being an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). The European Innovation Scoreboard confirms the Netherlands as a key player in Europe’s innovation landscape and a top choice for investment.
- European Innovation Scoreboard 2025