From pioneering to deepening. From building up to scaling up.

A year ago, Director Leonie Hussaarts began her assignment at Key Region Leiden: building a strong economic region where entrepreneurship, innovation and social impact come together. Meanwhile, a solid foundation has been laid. The first year was all about pioneering, connecting and giving direction, together with partners from municipalities, education, knowledge clusters, entrepreneurs and the growing team. In this news item she looks back on a year full of movement and looks ahead to the next phase for Key Region Leiden.

Photo above: The Key Region Leiden steering committee during the launch of the new organization on July 7, 2025, with Willem-Jan Zirkzee, Tino Meijn, Jan Bart van der Plas, Theo de Vries, Jacco Knape, Paul Olthof, Herman Romeijn, Wietske Veltman, Esther Peters, Karin Horsman, Joeri van den Steenhoven, Pim van Strien, Otto Jelsma and Martijn Van Pelt.

Photo below: the launch of Key Region Leiden at Plus Ultra in Leiden Bio Science Park.

‘Exactly one year ago, I embarked on a fantastic challenge: building Key Region Leiden as a strong economic region. A place where entrepreneurship, innovation and social impact come together. With 17 partners at the table, each with their own perspective, pace and importance’.

“For me, the past year was mostly about listening and connecting. I spoke to many entrepreneurs, administrators, researchers and partners. It was precisely by bringing ideas and interests together that movement was created.

‘We started new projects, attracted additional funding and strengthened our team with Els Frankhuijzen and Jarra Schroijen. At the same time, we built (and are building) step by step a professional organization that fits our role as an independent booster of the regional innovation ecosystem.

‘What makes me proud is that it is becoming increasingly clear what Key Region Leiden stands for: strengthening the region and supporting broad-based SMEs. Because good innovation only works if it is also good business’.

‘The first year really felt like pioneering. With trial and error, a lot of energy and sometimes patience. I am grateful for the trust and space I received from the board and partners to build, learn and experiment where necessary. And for the wonderful colleagues who took on these challenges with me’.

‘My ambition for the future: to continue building together a region where cooperation accelerates innovation and entrepreneurs can make a difference. From pioneering to deepening. From building up to scaling up. All it takes is a spark!’

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