Brightlands Limburg is one of the seven smartest regions in the world

Brightlands Limburg is one of the seven most innovative regions in the world. This was announced by the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) this afternoon – Wednesday 17 June – during the Top7 Communities of 2026 conference taking place in Limburg. Each year, the ICF selects seven innovative regions that are in the running to be named the world’s smartest region of the year. In October, it will be announced in Ohio who will be awarded the title ‘The Intelligent Community of the Year’.

The other six regions nominated for ‘Smartest Region of the Year’ are: Assai (Paraná, Brazil), Bursa Metropolitan Municipality (Turkey), Hilliard (Ohio, USA), Kingston (Ontario, Canada), Las Rozas de Madrid (Spain) and Yunlin County (Taiwan).

A global example of the triple helix

The ICF recognises Brightlands Limburg for its four interconnected Brightlands campuses, which have created one of Europe’s leading innovation ecosystems. Together, they are driving breakthroughs in the circular economy, healthcare, artificial intelligence, smart services, future-proof agriculture and food. Brightlands Limburg regards the ICF as a global example of the triple helix in practice, bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, businesses and government partners to translate innovation into economic growth and build a more sustainable future.

Proud of the achievement

Governor Emile Roemer is proud of this achievement: “Limburg is among the world’s best, competing in the Champions League of innovation and technology. Of course, we’ve known this for a long time, but I’m delighted that it’s now been made official. This recognition means we have a central role to play in tackling future challenges facing our society. It is a wonderful but also responsible task that Limburg is tackling with enthusiasm and delivering on. The world could do with a bit more Limburg.”