representation

Our members cannot be everywhere at the same time to articulate their points of view or protect their interests. So, one of BNO’s core activities is to represent our membership and the design industry as a whole - when and where that is needed.

In that capacity, we forge and maintain relationships/partnerships with relevant partners. These partners can be found among the various parts of the government including the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs; the Ministry of Education, Culture and Science; and the Agency for International Business and Cooperation (an export-promotion agency). And our partners are part of the business community, including MKB Nederland (represents small- and medium-sized businesses); the Chambers of Commerce, as well as Syntens (a national innovation network for entrepreneurs).

Of course, we often team up with other industry associations and professional groups, such as the BNA, the BNI, the VEA, the Design Management Network and the Premsela Foundation for  Dutch Design. Internationally, the BNO maintain contacts with its sister organizations abroad, mostly through international umbrella organizations such as BEDA, ICSID, ICOGRADA, IFI and the World Crafts Council.