Holst is a collaboration between TNO and the Flemish imec. With a staff of 230, Holst develops technology for companies worldwide such as Samsung, Panasonic, Dupont, and founding partner Philips. “We primarily focus on the intersection of flexible electronics and ultra-low power design. For instance, we have developed a pressure-sensitive mat that wirelessly communicates with a computer. Such a mat can be integrated into the kitchen floor for a cabinet with cleaning supplies. If you or I step on it, we can easily open the cabinet. But if a child weighing 10 kilos does it, the door remains closed.”
Foldable phone screens
Holst is also active in the field of Connected Health. To monitor patients' vital signs 24/7, they often still need to carry an uncomfortable device. “We develop patches that feel like a second skin, communicate wirelessly, and use much less energy, so you don’t have to change the battery constantly. Another example is the foldable phone screens that have come on the market this year. Important components of this technology were developed here.”
Internationalization is of great importance to Holst. Since the beginning, the R&D center has had clients not only in the Netherlands but also in Asia and America. Collaboration with global players ensures that local partners can more easily join large international innovation projects. “This is good for the Brabant ecosystem. Moreover, internationalization fits seamlessly with our philosophy and ambition. If you want to be among the best R&D centers in the world, you must work with global players.”
Local people
In the early days, Holst benefited abroad mainly from the networks of TNO and imec; in recent years, the R&D center has collaborated extensively with the BOM, the province of North Brabant, and the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency (NFIA). “Especially in new markets, we have continuous consultations with the BOM on how we can best operate there. A good example is China. Due to language and cultural differences, it is challenging to gain a foothold there. The BOM works with local people and the NFIA, which gives them many contacts and good knowledge of the local dynamics.”
Matchmaking
Holst also regularly participates in matchmaking events often organized by the BOM around missions at home and abroad. Incidentally, this matchmaking is increasingly taking place on an ad hoc basis. “Recently, the BOM brought a Taiwanese party to us to see if there could be a match. All in all, I estimate that thanks to the cooperation with the BOM, we have been able to double our international network and generate many more leads. This ultimately leads to new clients.”
Boots on the ground
For companies wanting to do business abroad, boots on the ground are indispensable. Van Mol: “Asian companies make decisions based on different criteria than Western companies. And when making contract agreements, it really helps if you can do so in their own language. If I were an SME with international ambitions, I would, therefore – possibly with other entrepreneurs – look for local people who know the rules and have the contacts. The BOM can act as a director in this.”