Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Index 2025: Leiden–Bollenstreek ranks #3 in NL

Why settle for average when you can shape the future of health in one of Europe’s top life sciences ecosystems? The 2025 Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Index confirms it: the Agglomeration Leiden–Bollenstreek now ranks #3 in the Netherlands, surpassing Brainport and closing in on Amsterdam. That’s a sign of long-term momentum for our region.

How did we get here?

Because of consistent investment in what matters:

• Strong academic anchors like Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden University, and Leiden Bio Science Park.
• A dense network of biotech and medtech innovators
• op scores in leadership, knowledge, and collaboration, the elements that actually drive high-quality entrepreneurship

It isn’t a one-year spike either, but a structural improvement that reflects how public institutions and private companies have collaborated to create an environment where life sciences can thrive.

What does this mean for companies?

If you’re growing a biotech, medtech, or pharmaceutical business in Europe, Leiden is one of the few places where research, business, and regulation are within walking distance. It’s where new ideas become therapies. Where regional collaboration is the norm. And where growth is matched with talent. The data backs it up. Now is the time to be part of it.

Credits to the authors Utrecht University (Erik Stam) and Birch Consultants’ authors (Tom Hendricksen, Jan Peter van den Toren, Bram Schoenmakers)

Here’s the full report and what’s your takeaway?

Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Index 2025