About Rotterdam
Rotterdam is dedicated to driving the change towards a resilient and sustainable urban future. Here, companies, research and knowledge institutions and governmental bodies actively collaborate to design and implement innovative and creative solutions for global challenges such as energy transition, circular economy and digitalisation.
Exceptional conditions to design, develop and market innovations
Rotterdam occupies an internationally leading position, accelerating digital, energy and circular transitions. Continuous innovation is the key. The city boasts internationally acclaimed research and knowledge institutions and prominent companies, keen to test and internalize innovations. The ‘make it happen’ culture and mentality which is tangible throughout the city and the open innovation ecosystem offer great business opportunities to work with leading companies on new creative solutions.
Thanks to its exceptional infrastructure, Rotterdam also has the best connectivity in Europe. The proximity to customers and suppliers makes it a strategic business location, ideally positioned for companies looking to market innovations in Europe and beyond. This unparalleled market access, combined with appealing business locations, the competitive Dutch tax regime and business-friendly regulatory authorities, give companies the sought after competitive advantage to succeed.
Access to a highly skilled and diverse workforce
Rotterdam is a modern, bustling and diverse city with 170 nationalities, where everyone speaks English. Here companies can find the industry expertise across sectors along with essential business and technical talent needed to successfully expand global operations.
As a result, Rotterdam offers a great mix of skilled, diverse and multi-lingual workers who have a strong work ethic, are well-educated and are accustomed to a multicultural environment. Thanks to Rotterdam’s unique dynamic vibe, excellent quality of life and thriving business communities, the city also attracts global talent. This excellent access to talent is why many international companies choose to establish their business in Rotterdam.
Facts & Figures
Did you know: with 672.000 inhabitants, Rotterdam is the second largest city in The Netherlands and 28th largest city in the EU. The Rotterdam region has approximately 1.5 million inhabitants. The city is part of the Randstad urban conurbation with 8.5 million residents.
Demographics:
The Netherlands: 18,044,027
Province of South-Holland: 3,863,397
Greater Rotterdam Region (COROP-Rijnmond): 1,511,151
Rotterdam: 672,960
(Year 2025. Source: CBS)
About us
We are the official Investment Promotion Agency for the Rotterdam region. From location advice and fact-finding trips to connecting you with partners and networks, we help you start and grow your business.
