- The Innovation Lab, called “Factory of the Future Experience Center,” is designed to advance Industry 5.0 solutions in the Dutch manufacturing sector.
- It’s focused on the impact of cutting-edge technologies including private 5G, AI and edge computing.
- The initiative aims to strengthen the regional ecosystem and address the growing shortage of technical talent.
Eindhoven, Netherlands and London – October 16, 2025 - NTT DATA, a global leader in AI, digital business and technology services, together with Brainport Industries and Cisco, the worldwide leader in networking and security, today announced the launch of an innovation lab at Brainport Industries Campus (BIC), the heart of the Dutch manufacturing industry and high-tech region. The lab, that will be set up in the Factory of the Future Experience Center at BIC, aims to accelerate Industry 5.0 by combining private 5G, edge computing and AI-ready infrastructure to address real-world manufacturing challenges.
By developing innovative solutions such as digital twin technology for real-time process optimization, advanced robotics for automated logistics and augmented reality (AR) training for workforce upskilling, the collaboration strengthens the link between technology, education and business. This initiative supports companies at BIC and aims to help address the growing shortage of technical talent by creating attractive careers in manufacturing.
Where technology and expertise converge
Each partner contributes based on their area of expertise. Cisco delivers the technological foundation, including private 5G, edge computing and secure, AI-ready infrastructure. NTT DATA brings its strengths in AI, systems integration and smart manufacturing, shaping AI-driven applications in production processes. Brainport Industries facilitates the Factory of the Future Experience Center and serves as a host and ecosystem manager, connecting educational institutions and local businesses to foster open innovation.
Accelerating innovation in the Netherlands
"Brainport stands for innovation, collaboration and developing the talent that shapes the future of the manufacturing industry. The Factory of the Future Experience Center, equipped with an NTT DATA Private 5G network based upon Cisco technologies, will powerfully strengthen our ecosystem,” said John Blankendaal, Managing Director at Brainport Industries.
"With this innovation lab, we bring together technology, knowledge and talent to make the Brainport region’s manufacturing industry resilient and future-proof," commented Jeroen van Hamersveld, Managing Director Netherlands at NTT DATA. "Our goal is to make AI and automation tangible, achievable and available to everyone in the industry. By sharing global expertise through this local project, we will accelerate innovation in both the Brainport region and in the Netherlands as a whole."
Paul van der Weijden, Country Digital Acceleration Director at Cisco Netherlands added: “AI starts with a secure, reliable network. Only Cisco combines the power of advanced networking with integrated security, observability and collaboration, delivering the foundation needed to help accelerate AI adoption for countries and businesses alike. By connecting cutting-edge technology with education, Cisco and NTT DATA are helping build a strong, sustainable and resilient Dutch manufacturing industry.”
Empowering students, SMEs and start-ups
BIC is a leading international hub where over 50 high-tech manufacturing companies and three educational institutions collaborate on innovation, production and talent development. The new innovation lab intends to equip students with practical experience by enabling them to work directly with advanced technologies such as AI and private 5G networks, gain real-world insights and participate in industry-applied innovations.
Local SMEs and start-ups will also benefit from access to cutting-edge technologies, shared facilities and the extensive expertise of technology partners, significantly lowering barriers to innovation. This enables creative solutions, such as drone- and AGV-driven logistics, augmented reality for training and digital twin applications, helping shape the “Factory of the Future.”