As an entrepreneur or professional, you know that networking is essential for success. Trade fairs offer an excellent opportunity to make new contacts, discover trends, and seize business opportunities. Several leading trade fairs are scheduled for 2026 in the Netherlands. Here are some of the most notable events:
1. ESEF Manufacturing Industry 2026 – Utrecht
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When: March 10-13, 2026
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Where: Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
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Sector: Manufacturing industry
ESEF Manufacturing Industry is the leading event for supply, outsourcing, and product development in the manufacturing industry. Over 80% of attendees are involved in purchasing decisions. This makes it the ideal opportunity to showcase your company and discover new business opportunities.
2. Innovation for Health 2026 – Utrecht
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When: March 25 & 26, 2026
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Where: Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
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Sector: Life sciences and health
Innovation for Health is the leading conference for life sciences and health. The event brings together more than 800 innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists, policymakers, and investors to shape the future of healthcare.
3. VIV Europe 2026 – Utrecht
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When: June 2-4, 2026
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Where: Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
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Sector: Animal production and technology
VIV Europe is a leading trade fair for animal production and technology. The event provides a platform for companies to present their latest products and innovations to a broad international audience.
4. ESCE – Utrecht
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When: June 24 & 25, 2026
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Where: Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
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Sector: Smart and climate-resilient cities
ESCE is a new annual event for the European Smart City industry. It focuses on creating smart and climate-resilient cities and offers a platform for professionals to share knowledge and collaborate.
5. Healthcare & ICT 2026 – Utrecht
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When: April 14-16, 2026
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Where: Jaarbeurs, Utrecht
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Sector: Healthcare and technology
Zorg & ICT is the largest health tech event in the Netherlands, where everything revolves around knowledge expansion and collaboration for future-proof healthcare. Visitors can view healthcare technologies and ICT solutions from hundreds of exhibitors, listen to engaging top speakers and executives on the Tech Mainstage, and gain new insights.
Why Scholarships Are Important for Your Network
Trade fairs are more than just exhibitions; they are dynamic meeting places where knowledge is shared, trends are presented, and business relationships are built. By actively participating in trade fairs, you can:
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Discover new business opportunities: Meet potential customers, partners and suppliers.
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Explore trends and innovations: Stay informed about the latest developments in your sector.
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Expand your network: Make valuable contacts that can lead to collaborations and growth.
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Strengthen your brand: Increase the visibility of your company and products.
Prepare for Success
To get the most out of your trade show visit, good preparation is essential. Make sure you:
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Goal setting: Determine in advance what you want to achieve during the event.
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Identifying Network Goals: Think about who you want to connect with.
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Prepare promotional materials: Provide business cards, brochures, or digital presentations.
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Follow-up plan: After the event, contact the people you met.
Conclusion
Trade fairs in the Netherlands in 2026 offer plenty of opportunities for professionals to network, share knowledge, and build business relationships. Whether you work in manufacturing, healthcare, technology, or pop culture, there's an event to suit your interests and goals. By actively participating and preparing well, you can get the most out of these events and contribute to the growth of your business.
