The group of entrepreneurs, researchers and specialists warn the country is at risk of falling behind the United States and China. They call for new legislation, annual multi-billion-euro investments and the creation of new research institutes to close the gap.

The Netherlands, they say, faces a “historic choice”, arguing that without decisive action the country will become dependent on foreign technology. They point to strong domestic foundations – from ASML and leading universities to high-tech, agriculture, logistics and energy – but say the country lacks a coordinated national effort.

They call for wider adoption of AI through education programmes and access for civil servants to top systems. Regulatory changes are needed, they say, to reduce financial risks for investors and make it easier for startups to hire and dismiss staff in highly paid roles.

There is, they say, a growing gap in investment and talent: Europe has far less AI computing power and venture capital than the US, Dutch startups struggle to scale up at home, and highly trained AI specialists are increasingly tempted to leave because they see more opportunities elsewhere.

Without major, long-term investment in infrastructure, skills and a better business climate, they argue, the Netherlands risks losing both competitiveness and control over a technology that will underpin future growth. A proposed “special economic zone” would allow temporary exemptions from existing rules.

For example, the report argues that the Netherlands should lead Europe in testing self-driving vehicles and drones. The experts recommend designating a city where autonomous cars and delivery drones can be widely deployed, pointing out that such services already operate in parts of the US and China.

It also proposes setting up two new national institutes: an AI Impact Institute and a Nationaal Agentschap voor Disruptieve Innovatie (NADI).

The latter would fund high-risk research projects with major societal potential, inspired by the US agency Darpa, which helped develop technologies such as GPS and the internet.