Dates

    3–4 Nov 2026

    City / country

    Groningen, Netherlands

    Venue

    Martiniplaza

    Time

    12:00 PM – 9:30 PM daily

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    Event overview

    Overview

    Promotion Days is the leading business event in Northern Netherlands, taking place on November 3-4, 2026, at Martiniplaza in Groningen.

    It connects local businesses, fosters networking, and showcases the region's entrepreneurial spirit.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Dates and Venue: Promotion Days 2026 runs November 3-4 at Martiniplaza, Groningen, Netherlands.
    2. 2Scale and Focus: This event is the largest business gathering in Northern Netherlands, attracting over 15,000 visitors and 450 exhibitors.
    3. 3Organiser: Hosted by Promotiedagen voor het Bedrijfsleven Noord Nederland BV, more details at promotiedagen.nl.
    4. 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include business professionals and decision-makers from various sectors across Northern Netherlands.
    5. 5Entry: Free admission with ticket registration available online.

    Why visit

    Visitors will have the opportunity to network with numerous businesses, attend insightful presentations, and explore various exhibition areas, all designed to inspire and facilitate business growth. Dates and Venue: Promotion Days 2026 runs November 3-4 at Martiniplaza, Groningen, Netherlands. Scale and Focus: This event is the largest business gathering in Northern Netherlands, attracting over 15,000 visitors and 450 exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Attendees include business.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors can generate leads, enhance brand visibility, and connect with potential clients and partners, making it an essential platform for business development in the region. Scale and Focus: This event is the largest business gathering in Northern Netherlands, attracting over 15,000 visitors and 450 exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Attendees include business professionals and decision-makers from various sectors across Northern Netherlands.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Business owners from various sectors
    Young professionals seeking networking opportunities
    Local government representatives
    Industry leaders and innovators
    Entrepreneurs looking for collaboration
    Students and recent graduates exploring career opportunities

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Companies in technology and innovation
    Local service providers and suppliers
    Manufacturers showcasing products
    Consultants offering business solutions
    Educational institutions promoting programs
    Non-profit organizations and community groups

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Business services and consulting
    Technology solutions and software
    Sustainable products and services
    Networking tools and platforms
    Marketing and advertising solutions
    Training and development programs

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Martiniplaza

    Winschoterdiep 50, 9723 AB Groningen, Netherlands

    Parking: Parking is available at Martiniplaza, but it is paid.

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Free registration

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    :12:00 PM – 9:30 PM daily

    • General Admission

      Free admission with ticket registration.

    Register

    Ticket info

    Ticket notes

    Visitor entry is free but requires a ticket requested in advance through portal.promotiedagen.nl. Exhibitors signing up via Direct inschrijven receive a personal registration link to invite relations and can order 100 printed access cards.

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Promotiedagen voor het Bedrijfsleven Noord Nederland BV

    EmailCallWebsite

    What's on

    Programme

    4

    Sessions

    2

    Event days

    10:30–18:00

    Typical time

    Tuesday, Nov 3, 2026

    10:30 – 12:00

    The Connectors Open Promotion Days

    17:00 – 17:45

    364 Days Blind: Why One Pen Test Per Year Is No Longer Enough

    17:15 – 18:00

    Skills: The Future of Recruitment

    Wednesday, Nov 4, 2026

    10:30 – 12:00

    The Great Northern Netherlands Speed Date

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Last edition

    2025

    estimate

    Visitors: 10,000

    Exhibitors: 300

    Next edition

    Not announced yet

    New this edition

    • 1

      Theme: Sterk Netwerk, Sterk Noorden

      Promotiedagen 2026 runs under the theme 'Strong Network, Strong North', highlighting connection, collaboration and mutual support across the Northern Netherlands business community, with additional new programme elements announced by the organiser.

      Source

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    Promotion Days is the leading business event in Northern Netherlands, taking place on November 3-4, 2026, at Martiniplaza in Groningen. It connects local businesses, fosters networking, and showcases the region's entrepreneurial spirit. Promotion Days is crucial for fostering business connections and showcasing innovations in Northern Netherlands, making it a key event for local entrepreneurs and businesses. Join us at Promotion Days 2026 on November 3-4 in Groningen at Martiniplaza, the premier business.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Visitors typically include Business owners from various sectors, Young professionals seeking networking opportunities, Local government representatives, Industry leaders and innovators. Dates and Venue: Promotion Days 2026 runs November 3-4 at Martiniplaza, Groningen, Netherlands. Scale and Focus: This event is the largest business gathering in Northern Netherlands, attracting over 15,000 visitors and 450 exhibitors. Organiser: Hosted by Promotiedagen voor het Bedrijfsleven Noord Nederland BV, more details at.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors can generate leads, enhance brand visibility, and connect with potential clients and partners, making it an essential platform for business development in the region. Scale and Focus: This event is the largest business gathering in Northern Netherlands, attracting over 15,000 visitors and 450 exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Attendees include business professionals and decision-makers from various sectors across Northern Netherlands. Exhibitor categories include Companies in technology and innovation, Local.

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    Northern Netherlands — the Groningen-Assen metropolitan region and the wider provinces of Groningen, Friesland and Drenthe, served from Martiniplaza in the city of Groningen, the region's principal business, knowledge and university hub.

    Why it matters

    Attending Promotion Days on 2026-11-03 to 2026-11-04 in Groningen lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Digital buyer journeys

    What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    02

    Sustainability in procurement

    What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    03

    Automation and labour efficiency

    What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    04

    Regional supply-chain resilience

    What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    05

    Hybrid engagement models

    What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · EUR

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    GRQ

    Groningen Airport Eelde

    Closest gateway to Martiniplaza, with a taxi rank at the terminal and limited scheduled routes via Amsterdam plus seasonal charter services.

    ~12 km

    to venue

    12-15 min by taxi off-peak

    by car

    AMS

    Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

    Main international gateway; direct NS Intercity trains to Groningen run roughly hourly from the station beneath the terminal.

    ~200 km

    to venue

    ~2 h by car; ~2 h 10 min by direct Intercity train to Groningen station, then 15 min to the venue

    by car

    BRE

    Bremen Airport

    Convenient German alternative with low-cost routes; a hire car or cross-border rail connection is recommended.

    ~190 km

    to venue

    ~2 h 15 min by car

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Budget
    City centre / south Groningen

    USD 92–105 / night

    Compact 3-star options such as The Social Hub Groningen; rates based on 85-130 EUR, confirm before travel as show dates may sell out early.

    Mid-range
    Stadspark / city centre

    USD 108–135 / night

    Leonardo Hotel Groningen Stadspark and Leonardo Hotel Groningen City Center; 1.5-3 km from Martiniplaza, confirm before travel.

    Premium
    Adjacent to Martiniplaza / Grote Markt

    USD 140–172 / night

    Mercure Hotel Groningen Martiniplaza (connected to the venue) and The Market Hotel; breakfast and parking may be extra, confirm before travel.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    train

    Estimated costEUR 30-35 single, 2nd class
    Best forAmsterdam Schiphol to Groningen station (NS Intercity)

    Direct Intercity runs roughly hourly, about 2 h 10 min; tap in and out with contactless via OVpay. Confirm current schedules and fares before travel.

    bus

    Estimated costEUR 2.50-3.50 single via OVpay
    Best forGroningen Central Station to Martiniplaza, Qbuzz line 19

    Nearest stop L. Springerlaan is about 500 m from the venue; tap in and out with contactless. Confirm timetable before travel.

    taxi

    Estimated costEUR 25-35
    Best forGroningen Airport Eelde (GRQ) to Martiniplaza

    About 12-15 min off-peak; taxis rank at the terminal or can be pre-booked. Confirm availability before travel.

    walk

    Estimated costNo fare
    Best forGroningen Central Station to Martiniplaza

    About 15 minutes on foot via the signposted Europapark route.

    parking

    Estimated costAbout EUR 2-3 per hour; daily cap around EUR 12-15
    Best forParkeergarage Martiniplaza

    Garage opposite the venue; an event tariff applies on show days. Confirm current rates before travel.

    taxi / rideshare

    Estimated costEUR 140-200
    Best forAmsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to Martiniplaza

    About 2 h by car; alternatively take the direct Intercity to Groningen station then a 15 min taxi. Confirm fares before travel.

    taxi

    Estimated costEUR 35–85 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
    Best forBremen Airport (BRE) to Martiniplaza

    ~2 h 15 min by car; Convenient German alternative with low-cost routes; a hire car or cross-border rail connection is recommended.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa not required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    Schengen short-stay business visa (Type C)Nationals of countries without a Schengen visa waiver travelling to the Netherlands for trade-fair visits, supplier meetings or negotiations$98.0015 calendar days from a complete application (allow 3-4 weeks in practice)
    Visa-free short business stay (Schengen waiver)EU/EEA citizens and nationals of visa-waiver countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan and South Korea—Not applicable
    Official visa page

    Weather

    Early November in Groningen is cool, breezy and frequently wet: daytime temperatures typically sit between 8 °C and 11 °C, falling to around 3-5 °C at night, with rain on roughly half the days of the month and 50-65 mm total rainfall. Pack a windproof, waterproof jacket, warm layers and waterproof footwear, and allow extra time for travel between the station and Martiniplaza on wet show days.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Groningen has strong 4G and 5G coverage from KPN, VodafoneZiggo and Odido, and EU visitors roam without surcharge under 'roam like at home'. Travellers from outside the EU can buy a prepaid eSIM from Airalo or Holafly before departure, or pick up a tourist SIM at Schiphol. Martiniplaza offers free Wi-Fi in public areas and the adjoining Mercure hotel provides free Wi-Fi for guests.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Punctuality and directness

    Dutch business culture values punctuality and plain-spoken communication; meetings start on time and small talk stays brief before the agenda gets underway.

    Tipping

    Service is included in Dutch bills. Locals round up the total or leave 5-10 % in restaurants, and give taxi drivers the nearest euro.

    Cyclists have priority

    Groningen is one of Europe's most cycle-friendly cities; watch for bikes and keep off the red cycle lanes when walking between the station, hotels and Martiniplaza.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: GRQ

    Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ) has a limited route network, so most international visitors fly into Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and continue by direct Intercity train in about 2 h 10 min, or into Bremen (BRE) for German connections. Book 6-10 weeks ahead for the best fares around the early-November show dates, and build in connection time if arriving on the morning of day one.

    Visa

    EU/EEA citizens can usually enter freely. Other nationals may need a Schengen visa (Schengen short-stay business visa (Type C)) for short business visits. Confirm requirements on the official migration site.

    Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).

    Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.

    Requires a letter of invitation from a Dutch business and proof of the economic purpose of the visit; apply via the Dutch embassy, consulate or an authorised visa centre. Fee and timing are standard Schengen figures, confirm current amounts on the official portal.

    Official

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ): 12-15 min by taxi off-peak; Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS): ~2 h by car; ~2 h 10 min by direct Intercity train to Groningen station, then 15 min to the venue; Bremen Airport (BRE): ~2 h 15 min by car. Allow road or rail time to Martiniplaza; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.

    Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Martiniplaza: City centre / south Groningen: City centre / south Groningen; Stadspark / city centre: Stadspark / city centre; Adjacent to Martiniplaza / Grote Markt: Adjacent to Martiniplaza / Grote Markt.

    Ride-hail: Uber and Bolt both operate in Groningen alongside Dutch providers such as TCA Taxi and Taxi Groningen; pick-up points sit outside Groningen Central Station and at the Martiniplaza entrance. Expect roughly EUR 10-15 for a cross-city ride and EUR 25-35 from Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ). Pre-book after the evening keynote sessions, when demand peaks.

    Public transit: Groningen Central Station is the regional rail hub, with direct Intercity trains to Amsterdam Schiphol (about 2 h 10 min), Utrecht, Zwolle and Leeuwarden. Martiniplaza is a 15-minute walk from the station, or a few minutes on Qbuzz bus line 19 to the L. Springerlaan stop, roughly 500 m from the entrance. Tap in and out with a contactless debit/credit card or phone using OVpay — no separate paper ticket is needed.

    Parking: Martiniplaza has its own multi-storey car park (Parkeergarage Martiniplaza) directly opposite the venue, with access at the front and rear and pay stations at the main entrance. An event tariff applies on show days, typically around EUR 2-3 per hour with a daily cap of roughly EUR 12-15. Disabled bays sit near the main entrance and overflow parking is signposted from the Groningen ring road.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: November 2026

    Temperature: Daytime highs of 8-11 °C and night-time lows around 3-5 °C; mild days can reach 14 °C while cold snaps push overnight temperatures close to 0 °C.

    Seasonality: Autumn in the northern Netherlands is breezy and changeable with frequent showers; November typically records rainfall on 12 to 21 days of the month.

    Packing: Pack layered, windproof clothing, a waterproof jacket and comfortable waterproof footwear for cobbled streets and wet show days, plus one smart-casual outfit for business networking.

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: Tuesday 3 November 2026 (Day 1)

    Day 1 carries three of the four scheduled sessions — the Connectors opening, the cybersecurity keynote '364 Days Blind' and the recruitment-skills session — and the exhibition floor runs at full capacity from opening. Visitors with only one day should take Day 1 for programme density, while those whose priority is structured introductions should add Day 2 for the Great Northern Netherlands Speed Date.

    1

    Check passport validity and, if required, apply for a Schengen short-stay business visa — Confirm requirements on business.gov.nl and allow about 15 calendar days for processing.

    2

    Book flights into Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ) or a connecting hub — GRQ is roughly 15 minutes by taxi from Martiniplaza.

    3

    Reserve a hotel near Martiniplaza or Groningen city centre for 2-5 November 2026 — The Mercure Hotel Groningen Martiniplaza is directly adjacent to the venue.

    4

    Register free of charge for a visitor ticket via portal.promotiedagen.nl — Save your ticket confirmation for badge collection on arrival.

    5

    Download the 2026 Beursplattegrond and Hall 1 map — Use the floor plan to plot a route between target exhibitors.

    6

    Shortlist exhibitors from the deelnemerslijst and request meetings in advance — Priority sectors include IT, staffing, finance, transport and training.

    7

    Review the programme and 2026 theme sessions — The edition theme is Sterk Netwerk, Sterk Noorden.

    8

    Plan local transport from Groningen Central Station or the airport — Bus line 19 or a 15-minute walk from the station; pre-book parking if driving.

    9

    Arrange travel insurance and carry a printed invitation letter — Keep visa and invitation documents handy for border checks.

    10

    Pack layered, windproof and waterproof clothing — Expect around 10°C by day and wet, breezy November conditions.

    11

    Prepare business cards, sourcing requirements and a meeting agenda — Northern Netherlands SMEs value direct, punctual meetings.

    12

    On day one arrive early at Martiniplaza for badge collection and orientation — Doors open at 12:00 PM on 3 and 4 November 2026.

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    09:00–10:30

    Arrival, registration and orientation

    Martiniplaza main entrance and exhibition floor
    10:30–12:00

    Opening session: The Connectors Open Promotion Days

    Martiniplaza congress area
    13:00–18:00

    Exhibition walk-through and supplier meetings

    Martiniplaza exhibition halls
    10:30–13:00

    The Great Northern Netherlands Speed Date and follow-ups

    Martiniplaza networking area

    Side trips

    2

    Leeuwarden

    Bremen, Germany

    Networking spots

    3

    Martiniplaza exhibition-floor networking zones

    The main halls include dedicated B2B meeting points and exhibitor stands set up for walk-up conversations across both show days.

    Martiniplaza restaurant and bar

    On-site brasserie and bar used for informal meetings and post-session drinks; the adjoining Mercure hotel bar is the natural spill-over venue.

    Groningen city centre (Grote Markt and Poelestraat)

    Around 15 minutes by bus or taxi from the venue; cafes and restaurants here host after-show dinners and supplier entertaining.

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Hotel × 2 nights€184.00
    • Per diem × 2€150.00
    • Visa€98.00
    Estimated total€432.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    visitor_ticket

    visitor · general admission

    —

    confirmed

    visa_fee

    international_visitor · Schengen short-stay business visa (Type C)

    EUR 90 / per person

    confirmed

    hotel

    visitor · mid-range

    EUR 100–150 / per night

    estimate

    hotel

    visitor · premium

    EUR 130–180 / per night

    estimate

    per_diem

    visitor · standard

    EUR 50–75 / per day

    estimate

    local_transport

    visitor · city bus / train single journey

    EUR 2–4 / per journey

    estimate

    airport_transfer

    visitor · taxi from Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ)

    EUR 25–35 / per trip

    estimate

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 6

    What is your primary role?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    SME owners, managers and young professionals from the Northern Netherlands sourcing suppliers, training, finance and IT partners over the two show days.

    Min. budget

    $450.00

    Timeline

    4-6 weeks to secure a free ticket and book a hotel near Martiniplaza.

    Risks

    Hotel rates rise close to the show and the adjacent Mercure sells out early

    Visitor tickets are free but must be requested in advance online

    exhibit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Regional suppliers, service providers and IT, staffing, finance or training firms targeting Northern Netherlands SMEs and start-ups.

    Min. budget

    $2,500.00

    Timeline

    3-4 months to book a stand, finalise build and arrange freight.

    Risks

    Hall allocation and stand position are decided by the organiser

    Electrical, rigging and compliance forms have fixed deadlines

    skip

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    International buyers with no commercial interest in the Northern Netherlands regional market or in Dutch-language SME networking.

    Timeline

    Not applicable.

    Risks

    Missing the region's main annual business networking and supplier-sourcing event

    Gallery

    Photos

    Official imagery from Promotion Days
    Official imagery from Promotion Days

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    What are the opening hours of the event?
    Visitors are welcome on November 3, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM and on November 4, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM.
    Is access to Promotion Days free?
    Yes, requesting a ticket for Promotion Days is completely free.
    Can I park at Martiniplaza?
    Yes, parking is available at Martiniplaza, but it is paid.
    How can I request a ticket?
    You can request a ticket for Promotion Days through the official website.
    Who visits Promotion Days?
    The audience includes a wide range of business professionals and young professionals from the entire SME sector in Northern Netherlands.
    What is the theme of Promotiedagen 2026?
    The 2026 edition runs under the theme 'Sterk Netwerk, Sterk Noorden' (Strong Network, Strong North), focused on connection, collaboration and joint progress across the Northern Netherlands business community, with new elements announced by the organiser.
    Where can I find the exhibition floor plan?
    The 2026 fair floor plan and the Hall 1 map are published on promotiedagen.nl under Beursplattegrond and Plattegrond 2026 voor deelnemers.

    Glossary

    1
    SME
    Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, the core audience of Promotion Days alongside young professionals in the Northern Netherlands.
    2
    Networking
    Meeting and building professional contacts; the central purpose of the show and its 'Sterk Netwerk, Sterk Noorden' theme.
    3
    Exhibitor
    A company or organisation presenting products or services on a stand at the fair.
    4
    Ticket Registration
    The free online sign-up through portal.promotiedagen.nl that provides a visitor access ticket.
    5
    Business Event
    A gathering for professionals to network, learn and do business, such as the two-day Promotion Days in Groningen.
    6
    Beursplattegrond
    Dutch for exhibition floor plan, the hall map showing stand locations published for the 2026 edition.
    7
    Hal
    Dutch for hall; Promotion Days 2026 publishes a separate map for Hal 1 (Hall 1).
    8
    Deelnemerslijst
    Dutch for participants list, the online directory of exhibitors on promotiedagen.nl used to plan visits.
    9
    OVpay
    The Dutch system that lets travellers tap in and out on trains, buses and metros with a debit or credit card or mobile phone.
    10
    Schengen Visa
    The short-stay visa allowing non-waiver nationals to enter the Netherlands for business for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

    Also known as

    Alternate names and search phrases for this event.

    • Promotion Days 2026
    • Promotiedagen Groningen
    • Promotion Days Groningen
    • Promotiedagen 2026
    • Promotiedagen Martiniplaza
    • business expo Groningen 2026
    • B2B business fair Netherlands
    • business services expo Groningen
    • technology solutions trade fair Groningen
    • sustainable business products expo

    10 more alternate names hidden

    Trust footer

    Sources

    5

    References

    1

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    Promotion Days

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