Tech & Digital

Robotics in Eindhoven: A Base for Hardware Companies

Updated: 18 August 2026 Holdwise editorial team Robotics Eindhoven Hardware

Robotics companies usually fail for two reasons: hiring, and how fast they can build and test new versions. In Eindhoven, you can solve both. The region has the densest pool of mechatronics talent in Europe. Local suppliers can deliver parts for a design change within a few days. At Holdwise, we keep this answer up to date and change it when the rules change.

Talent and the supplier network

The technical university trains mechatronics, systems and control engineers for a region that already employs thousands of them. The Brainport suppliers work in precision machining, electronics, optics and integration. They make prototypes faster than teams that ship parts from abroad are used to. See the same supply chain, for chips. International senior staff can join through the highly skilled migrant permit (kennismigrant). See the hiring page.

Customers and compliance

Pilot customers are close by, such as logistics companies, greenhouse growers and manufacturing lines. These industries have their own budgets for robots. For the product, you need CE marking under the EU rules for machines. If you build abroad first, importer duties also apply. See the CE and import guide.

The hardware company’s structure

Three points are important for the structure. The WBSO applies to the engineering hours. See the WBSO wage credit. The innovation box applies to the technology you ship. See the 9% innovation box. The standard two-company setup also has one rule for hardware. Keep inventory, warranty and product-liability risk in the operating BV. Build up IP and value in the holding above it. See the holding structure. Financing options range from grants to growth equity. See the financing map.

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Frequently asked questions

Should hardware startups manufacture in-house or with local suppliers? +

Most companies in the region do the design and final assembly in-house and buy precision parts from local suppliers. You then need little capital for new versions until the volume is large enough for your own production lines. The suppliers expect this and set their prices for it.

What does product liability mean for the structure? +

Product liability is a strong argument for the two-company structure. The operating company that sells the machine is liable. The IP and the value built up are held separately, in the holding. You can add insurance for extra protection on top of that structure.

When was this last checked? +

Reviewed on 18 August 2026. The regional logic here is stable and getting stronger.

Sources Belastingdienst · KVK · wetten.overheid.nl Last updated: 18 August 2026