The ICF considers Brainport to be an example for a new way of thinking about cooperation and regional development. TU/e Executive Board chairman Arno Peels: “This prestigious prize is a recognition of the excellent regional cooperation in the triple helix of science, business community and government. TU/e plays a significant role in this with internationally prominent scientific research. Our ambition for the future is to further increase the scientific and societal impact of our research, education and knowledge valorization.”

In the jury report the ICF commends the regular consultations between employees, research institutes, the Chamber of Commerce, the SRE, TU/e and the authorities of Helmond and Eindhoven. ‘They come together to discuss powers, needs and objectives and to utilize opportunities.’ An example mentioned by the ICF is the Brainport Health Innovation project: ‘In order to improve the well-being for the elderly and chronically ill and reduce healthcare costs, the region has set up the Brainport Health Innovation project.’

In the strategic plan for 2020 TU/e has designated Health as one of its spearheads.

The ICF is an international think tank in the area of economics and social development which annually composes a ranking of intelligent communities. In this tenth edition the American Dublin, the Canadian Windsor-Essex and the French region Issy-les-Moulineaux were in the final together with Brainport Eindhoven. (NS)

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