CIC Rotterdam expands innovation space in Groot Handelsgebouw
A major development is on its way in Rotterdam’s innovation scene: CIC Rotterdam is set to expand next month, adding 1,136 m² of purpose-built innovation space in the iconic Groot Handelsgebouw. This expansion brings the total size of its innovation campus to nearly 12,000 m², further strengthening its position at the heart of Rotterdam’s dynamic startup ecosystem.
CIC, a global leader in building and operating innovation campuses, has signed a long-term agreement for the additional space with Jamestown, a global real estate investment and management firm, and the owner of Groot Handelsgebouw. The new lease will see CIC Rotterdam grow to 11,710 m² in total.
CIC and Jamestown have partnered since 2019 to foster innovation and international collaboration from the heart of Rotterdam. With this expansion, CIC will be able to meet increasing demand from Rotterdam’s growing startup community by offering more shared workspace within the historic building.
“Rotterdam plays a key role in the global innovation landscape, from cleantech to logistics and life sciences, positioning it as a gateway to the rest of Europe,” said Joyce Kornet-Vreugdenhil, General Manager, CIC Rotterdam. “The city’s vibrant startup community, talented workforce and international outlook make it an exciting place to work. We look forward to expanding our local community with the city of Rotterdam, and growing our global network together with Jamestown.”
With the added space, CIC Rotterdam will offer even more room for startups and scale-ups in climate tech, life sciences, logistics, AI, and more to connect with corporates, investors, and global innovation partners. And it is all happening in the heart of Rotterdam – a city doubling down on its future as a global innovation hub – because innovation does not happen in isolation.
Named one of Europe’s Leading Startup Hubs by the Financial Times for two consecutive years, CIC Rotterdam continues to play a vital role in shaping the region’s innovation landscape.
Click here to learn more about the expansion. Interested in joining CIC Rotterdam? Book a tour today.
Date: May 15, 2025
Source: CIC
