Case Study: A Man-Made Blue Zone in the Netherlands

This case analysis shows how inter-organizational collaborations can lead to improvements in policymaking and real-world outcomes. It looks at how the Healthy Ageing Network Northern Netherlands (HANNN) was created as a 'triple-helix' network organization with partners in research institutes, government bodies, and businesses.

How can more collaborations like this lead to sustainable innovation for societies?

A New Concept Of The UMCG

3. ESTABLISHING THE HEALTHY AGING NETWORK NORTHERN NETHERLANDS (HANNN)

The third pillar of the new concept of the UMCG is the 'triple helix' network organization Healthy aging Network Northern Netherlands (HANNN), which represents the wider knowledge and development cluster in the field of healthy aging. Within this network, the private sector, government organizations and (care) knowledge institutions are brought together to find answers to fundamental questions such as: Why do some people reach a healthy old age while others do not?

The UMCG is also a participant in this collaborative venture. This systematic approach to cooperation aims to contribute to the development of a better quality of life in old age, but will also create a basis for substantial economic and social activities. The challenge of staying healthy longer through innovation calls for fundamental breakthroughs in core areas that determine sickness and health, in particular in the field of life sciences, food and nutrition, medical technology, care and cure, and healthy lifestyle.

Thanks to the scale of the approach, the natural cohesion in the region, national and international cooperation, the available knowledge, and the short lines of communication with the private sector, the Northern Netherlands is a logical trial area for innovations and new care concepts.