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The creative industry is of great significance to the Netherlands, but its position is under pressure. Now more than ever, it is important to showcase what we as a sector have to offer: the ability to see things differently and develop solutions that make a difference far beyond our own sector.
That’s why, during CreativeNL Live 2026, we’re bringing together designers, researchers, companies, and Dutch and European policymakers. The goal is to forge new connections and build a bridge between research, practice, policy, and funding. Under the theme: “Why the world needs more design.”
CreativeNL Live will take place on Friday, October 23, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Ketelhuis in Eindhoven, during Dutch Design Week. The program will be in English. CreativeNL Live is made possible by BNO, CLICKNL, Ekip in collaboration with TU Delft, and the Dutch Design Foundation, with support from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy.
Admission is free, but advance registration is required.
From Program to Conversation
CreativeNL Live kicks off the closing weekend of Dutch Design Week on Friday afternoon. It’s not a formal conference session, but an accessible gathering where content and networking come together.
The plenary program focuses on different perspectives on the creative industry and the power of design. Afterward, there will be plenty of time to continue the conversation while enjoying some snacks and drinks.
Why the World Needs More Design
Design has much more to offer than just the development of products, services, or visual solutions. Design power helps us understand complex issues, reconcile differing interests, and make new ideas truly applicable. As a result, the design sector plays a vital role in innovation and addressing societal challenges, even far beyond the creative industry itself.
CreativeNL Live highlights this role and brings together the various stakeholders needed to fulfill it. Not to formulate a single answer, but to have a conversation about where the creative industry stands and what it can contribute.
“Why the world needs more design” is therefore more than just the theme of the afternoon. In a rapidly changing world, where societal challenges are growing and room for innovation is not a given, the need for people who can see things differently is actually increasing. That makes the power of design not only relevant, but essential.
