NWO celebrates its 75th anniversary

The full breadth of traditional knowledge development is what the NWO was founded for in 1950 in post-war Netherlands. Initially under a different name: the 'Dutch Organisation for Pure Scientific Research' (ZWO).
"The general feeling was that a strong scientific sector contributed substantially to the reconstruction and prosperity. The Netherlands should not be dependent on others, but should have all the knowledge in house", says science and university historian Ab Felipse of VU Amsterdam about the founding. The Cold War also contributed to this and put a brake on international scientific cooperation.

Moving with society

We have been known by our current name since 1988. But it is not only our name that has changed over the years. NWO has moved with the changes in society and has reinvented itself, whether or not under external pressure. This is in line with its mission to 'promote the quality of scientific research, as well as to initiate and encourage new developments in scientific research'.
Today we fund and facilitate a wide range of research: from fundamental to applied and practice-oriented research, across a large part of the knowledge chain. Researchers from all disciplines can apply to NWO for our funding. Internationally leading research is also conducted within NWO's ten national research institutes.

After 75 years, NWO is very much alive. We are constantly stimulating new forms of research and thus creating new connections. These are essential in order to meet the major social challenges in a changing world. Research is increasingly taking place with society, rather than for society. Research qualities from across society are being utilised: knowledge institutions, the business community, social organisations, governments and citizens all have an important place in this. Researchers are increasingly working across the boundaries of scientific disciplines and co-creation is playing an important role in the valorisation of research.

"The general feeling was that a strong scientific sector contributed substantially to the reconstruction and prosperity. The Netherlands should not be dependent on others, but should have all the knowledge in house." Ab Felipse, science and university historian at the VU University Amsterdam.

Central role

Modern science thrives on shared knowledge and goals, on a genuine interest in each other's fields of research. Only in this way can modern science achieve results that not only yield new knowledge, but also help society progress. NWO plays a central role in this. Not only as a financier and executor of scientific research, but also by connecting parties and breaking down barriers. In addition, NWO traditionally ensures that there is enough room and funding for free and independent research, both fundamental and within individual scientific fields. Because science still thrives with researchers who are driven by a curiosity for new knowledge.

Over the past 75 years, NWO has grown in its role. We have moved with the times, and in the coming decades we will continue to advocate for the very best science with the greatest (social) impact. But we will always do so together with researchers who are committed to new knowledge with heart and soul. In the interest of society. On to the next 75 years.