16 September 2011 - PRESS RELEASE - Ecorys (Netherlands) and Curconsult (Curaçao) have signed a partnership agreement on 15th September 2011. The partnership is aimed at aquiring and executing economic research, advisory and management consultancy projects in the Dutch/Caribbean region (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Sint-Eustatius, Sint-Maarten and Saba).

As a result of the new constitutional relations within the kingdom, the islands governing bodies and the Dutch government have seen a shift in responsibilities. These lead to significant administrative and policy related changes, new investments and other initiatives aimed at the sustainable development of this region. By joining expertise and knowledge, Ecorys and Curconsult will be able to optimally support their clients in their new roles in both the Caribbean region and in the Netherlands.

Over the last couple of years Ecorys and Curconsult have regularly done projects together. Curconsult has operating on Curaçao since 1990. The company has an extensive network in the region and has broad knowledge of the area and issues that policy makers and entrepreneurs are faced with. Ecorys works worldwide and has been active in the Dutch Caribbean region for over 10 years. Ecorys has advised governments, multilateral institutions, companies and investors on issues in economy and competitiveness, area development, tourism, transport, infrastructure, energy, environment, labour marekt and education.

"Curconcult and Ecorys complement each other perfectly." says Wim Spit, managing director of Ecorys in the Netherlands. "Our partner not only has extensive knowledge about - and on - the islands, but also an excellent reputation and a large network. Together with the global expertise of Ecorys and our deep economic knowledge base, our team is a strong partner for any client in this area. We are very much looking forward to further give shape to our collaboration."

Rob van den Bergh, economist and director of Curconsult says that smaller islands should not have the illusion that all knowledge and experience can be found on their island. "Incorporating knowledge, experience and best practices aquired elsewhere is essential in order to be succesful. Ecorys and Curconsult together are capable to supply this knowledge and experience. From there we can make sure that solutions work in practice and that they don't stop at being ideas on paper."

More information:

Ecorys: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , T +31 10 453 88 31
Curconsult: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , T +5999 461 24 10