Innovation for resilience

Congress by design was selected as the Professional Congress Organiser (PCO) for Securing the Future and played a central role in the logistical and operational coordination of the event. Working closely with the Municipality of The Hague, The Hague & Partners and a wide range of partners, the team supported the project group in planning, decision-making and execution. Organising the event just before the NATO Summit brought additional logistical complexity. With large parts of The Hague closed off and special traffic routes in place, accessibility and security required close coordination with local authorities, suppliers and the venue. Congress by design coordinated the operational planning, including supplier management, sponsorship agreements, stand construction and venue logistics. The team also developed the event website and managed the invitation-only registration process, ensuring careful monitoring of attendance. An extensive safety and security plan was implemented in collaboration with the venue and partners, while a sustainability checklist guided decisions on materials and event production.

Securing the Future brought together more than 750 participants from across the international defence innovation ecosystem. The programme included 32 sessions, 171 speakers and an exhibition where dozens of companies showcased their latest dual-use innovations in areas such as AI, data, unmanned systems and supply chain security. The event generated concrete outcomes. More than 200 one-on-one meetings took place between companies, investors and security partners, leading to new collaborations and opportunities for innovation and investment. Attendance remained highly accurate thanks to strict invitation and registration management, resulting in a no-show rate of less than 3%. Sustainability was also taken into account through the use of reusable aluminium frames and PVC-free materials for signage and production elements. The event demonstrated the power of bringing together innovators, policymakers and investors to accelerate collaboration and strengthen Europe’s security and technological resilience.

"What happened here at Securing the Future is exactly what we need. By tapping into the strength of innovative SMEs, we boost both our security as well as our economy. Especially in times of increasing threats, that thriving economy is vital to building a resilient society,” concluded State Secretary Tuinman.