The Netherlands continues to strengthen its position as a leading European life sciences hub, supported by an ecosystem of 1,988 companies across biotechnology, medtech, digital health, pharma, investors, and supporting services. The 2026 Netherlands Life Science Trend Analysis, produced in partnership with Hollandbio, highlights a mature, innovation-driven landscape, with biotechnology representing the largest core segment.
The ecosystem includes 537 biotech companies, 173 medtech firms, 79 digital health companies, and 111 investors. Biotech activity spans therapeutics & diagnostics, R&D services, and other biotech, with oncology, neurology, and infectiology/parasitology among the most active clinical indications.
Clinical development is strongly early-stage, reflecting a robust innovation pipeline. Out-licensing activity points to significant future deal potential, with over 300 therapeutic assets available for partnering.
Financing trends show mixed dynamics: total life science venture funding grew from $563.9M in 2024 to $675.9M in 2025, while biotech-specific funding saw a slight decline, mirroring broader market conditions. Despite this, continued deal activity indicates sustained investor interest.
Looking ahead, the Netherlands’ life sciences sector is well positioned for growth, supported by a strong base of private companies, an expanding early-stage pipeline, and potential acceleration in partnerships, licensing, and M&A activity.
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Download the Netherlands Trend Analysis Report, 2026