Amsterdam ranked 2nd in fDi’s 2023 European Cities of the Future

Amsterdam is top performer among major European cities

According to the fDi’s European Cities and Regions of the Future report 2023, Amsterdam maintained its 2nd place ranking among major European cities for foreign direct investment. This report assessed 370 European cities and 148 economic regions across 5 performance indicators: economic potential, business friendliness, connectivity, human capital & lifestyle, and cost effectiveness.

The report found that Amsterdam’s reputation as an innovation hub has made it a magnet for venture capital firms, while the post-Brexit relocation of Euronext has helped the city become Europe’s biggest trading venue. Logistical hubs like the Port of Amsterdam and Schiphol Airport provide exceptional connectivity while serving as launch pads for sustainable initiatives, showing how legacy industries can be reshaped for the future. 

Thanks to these advantages, the city ranked as a top 5 performer in the following areas:

• #2 in connectivity
• #3 in business friendliness (rising one spot from last year’s ranking)
• #4 in economic potential
• #5 in human capital and lifestyle

North Holland is the #1 mid-sized European region of the future

Amsterdam’s home province of North Holland also received the accolade of top mid-sized (population = 1.5M - 4M) European region of the future. The region ranked #1 in 3 out of 5 categories: connectivity, business friendliness, and economic potential.

The strategic position of the province has helped it top the rankings, both economically as a hub for European finance and technology and geographically in the quest for clean energy. Jutting into the North Sea, the province houses much of Europe’s offshore wind potential and is also the site of Europe’s largest green hydrogen plant in the Port of Amsterdam. 

Driving future-forward investment in Europe

Amsterdam and the surrounding area has established itself as a top region for future-focused investment. The city cultivates forward-thinking initiatives, from ethical use of emerging technologies to achieving a fully circular economy by 2030. Aside from cutting-edge key sectors, the area is also known for an excellent quality of life and high level of English proficiency, making it an attractive destination for international business. 

Download fDi’s full report (PDF).