SMEs partner with Saxion to build a cross-border business ecosystem
Dutch and German entrepreneurs from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) joined forces earlier this week at Saxion in Enschede to collaborate on building a stronger cross-border business ecosystem. Collaboration, innovation and international opportunities took centre stage during this third session of the Dutch–German Learning Community.
With this Learning Community, Saxion demonstrates its commitment to actively contribute to the internationalisation capacity of companies in the ‘Euregio’. By bringing entrepreneurs, knowledge institutions and experts together, an ecosystem is created in which knowledge sharing and collaboration take centre stage. This makes it easier and more accessible for businesses to take steps towards doing business in the neighbouring country.
“In today's world full of geopolitical tensions, it is valuable to explore the possibilities for cross-border cooperation with so many stakeholders. In doing so, we can truly strengthen Europe,” emphasises Jacques Bazen (researcher at the Sustainable Building Technology research group).
During the session, the entrepreneurs worked on practical case studies that explored cultural differences, regulations and how to do business in Germany or the Netherlands. This hands-on approach directly led to applicable insights and new opportunities for collaboration. The sessions were guided by experts from educational institutions on both sides of the border, who supported participants in developing ideas and translating challenges into practical solutions.
One of the speakers was Executive Board member Karin Verschoor. In her role, she highlighted how important it is for Saxion to position itself as an active partner in the regional business ecosystem. Entrepreneur Ingo Hoff, owner of Hoff & Partner from Gronau and chairperson of the German business network AiW, also shared his experiences on doing business across the border. He emphasised, among other things, the importance of informal contacts and mutual understanding for successful collaboration between Dutch and German companies.
In addition to in-depth content, the session offered plenty of opportunities for interaction and strengthening networks. It is precisely this combination of knowledge, practical experience and personal encounters that makes the Learning Community so valuable for entrepreneurs looking to broaden their horizons.
Interreg Project ‘Borderland Business Partnerships’
The Learning Community is part of the Interreg project Borderland Business Partnerships. This project, supported by European Interreg funding, aims to strengthen economic collaboration in the border region. In the project Saxion is working with partners to create sustainable ties between Dutch and German companies. "By combining knowledge, networks and practical experience, a solid foundation is being laid for further cooperation in the Euregio," says Marion Hemsing, senior advisor Euregio.
For Saxion, the ambition is clear: to support regional companies in their internationalisation plans and to contribute to a strong and resilient Euregio economy. It is precisely through cross‑border collaboration that the regional business community can become more agile, innovative and future‑proof. Entrepreneurs who want to explore what cross‑border business could mean for their organisation are warmly invited to join future sessions of the Learning Community.
Want to learn more about the Euregional activities within Saxion? Visit www.saxion.edu/about-saxion/internationalisation/euregio
