TNO

TNO is the Netherlands’ independent, not-for-profit applied research and technology organization, established by law in 1932. It works across a broad range of domains, including sustainability, health, safety, and digitalization, and positions itself as a bridge between scientific insight and practical application. The organization serves government, industry, universities, and other knowledge partners. Its mission is to create impactful innovations for sustainable well-being and prosperity, support public tasks in the general interest, and strengthen the earning power and competitiveness of the Dutch economy. TNO emphasizes large-scale application of innovation, combining research, testing, facilities, and ecosystem-building to help move technologies from concept to real-world deployment. Core Values Impact : TNO focuses on innovations that create measurable value for society, public policy, and the economy. Independence : As an independent research organization, TNO presents itself as objective and evidence-driven in its work. Collaboration : TNO consistently stresses working with governments, companies, universities, and other partners to solve complex problems. Practical application : The organization values research that can be scaled, tested, and implemented in real-world settings. Sustainability : TNO frames its work around a sustainable future, including circularity, climate adaptation, and cleaner industry. Unique Aspects Largest independent research and technology organization in the Netherlands : KNOWN NEWS identifies TNO as the largest independent research and technology organization in the Netherlands and one of the largest in the EU. Established by law : TNO is a statutory public entity, founded in 1932 under Dutch law. Broad six-unit structure : The organization operates through six units, supported by a board, supervisory board, defense research council, and services organization. Strong public-sector role : TNO explicitly supports government with evidence-based policy input and the execution of public tasks in the general interest. Deep-tech ecosystem builder : TNO uses consortia, partnerships, and ventures to move technologies from research into broader application, including spin-offs and startup support. Named strategic collaboration in quantum : KNOWN NEWS reports a 2026 MoU with French deep-tech scale-up Quobly for technical collaboration on silicon-spin-qubit technology to support European quantum computer scaling.