Research Conference 2026: data-driven insights for impactful entrepreneurship support in low- and middle-income countries

On Tuesday 14 April 2026, Orange Corners (RVO) together with Utrecht University, organises the Orange Corners Research Conference 2026 at The Hague Conference Center in The Netherlands! This event will bring together research, policy and practice around one central theme: strengthening entrepreneurship support through evidence-based insights.  

The conference presents the key findings of two years of practice-oriented and data-driven research conducted with African and Dutch knowledge institutions within the Orange Corners programme. Throughout the day, participants will explore how entrepreneurship programmes impact entrepreneurs in Africa, the Middle East and Bangladesh, and how research insights can form better policies, more effective implementation and foster sustainable development outcomes.  

We look forward to seeing you there in person, as the conference is designed for live attendance. While the physical event is the primary focus, an online stream is available exclusively for Orange Corners implementers and staff of the Embassies of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in OC countries.

The day is divided into two programmes: 

• a morning programme with in-depth parallel sessions for those who want to engage deeply with specific research insights, and
• an afternoon programme focused on connecting research, policy and practice in a broader plenary setting.

Several Utrecht University researchers are involved in the programme such as Erik Stam, Christina Bidmon, Robert McDonald and Niels Bosma.
The keynote will be delivered by dr. Adeyinka Adewale, Associate Professor of Leadership Ethics and Entrepreneurship at the Henley Business School and the Director of the Africa Research Centre.

Participants can register for the full day or choose to attend the afternoon programme only.
More information about the programme, sessions and registration can be found on the special Orange Corners Conference website.