About us

The Council of Deans in Economics and Business (DEB)
Working Together to represent the sector of economics education and research in the Netherlands

At a time when society faces complex challenges, the role of economics and business education needs thoughtful evolution. The Council of Deans in Economics and Business (DEB) grew from a shared understanding: that academic work in economics and business must contribute meaningfully to society. Together, fourteen Dutch universities collaborate to help realize this vision.

Each year, we have the privilege of educating over 53,000 students through our programs, representing about 16% of Dutch university students. These students, studying across more than 80 accredited educational programs, bring fresh perspectives and energy to economic and business thinking. They challenge us to remain relevant and forward-looking in our approach.

When we gathered in 2019 to discuss the impact future of economics and business education, a clear insight emerged: traditional approaches alone cannot address today’s challenges. This realization led us to develop an impact agenda focusing on five societal transitions, from sustainability to digital transformation, from health to institutional change.

DEB recognizes that strength does no longer lie in individual institutions but in working together. By sharing insights, combining expertise, and learning from each other, we aim to contribute more effectively to societal challenges. While our institutions maintain strong international accreditations and achieve recognition in rankings, we measure our value primarily through our contribution to society’s wellbeing.

The REmagine Award reflects this collaborative spirit. By recognizing master’s research that connects academic insight with societal impact, we hope to encourage new ways of thinking about economics and business. The award celebrates not just individual achievement, but the potential for fresh perspectives to contribute to positive change.

As we face pressing societal challenges – from climate change to healthcare sustainability, from digital transformation to social equality – we recognize the need to keep learning and adapting. The role of economics and business faculties is to support and encourage the development of economic thinking that better serves society’s needs.

Through ongoing dialogue with students, professionals, policymakers, and civil society, we continue to learn how economics and business education can better contribute to societal wellbeing. This is our ongoing commitment: to work together, learn together, and contribute to positive change where we can.

We invite you to join us in this continuing journey of learning and development.

The Goldschmeding Foundation’s support of the REmagine Award

Within the program ‘Humane Economy’ the Goldschmeding Foundation strives for a new economic way of doing and thinking. In this, the interests of all stakeholders involved in an organization and/or society are taken into consideration. It is about values ​​such as community, multiple value creation and well-being. And about answering the question: ‘What if the interest of the other is anchored in our economic actions?’ The REmagine Thesis Award aligns with this objective, as it provides a platform for theses that address impact themes and promote a humane economy. Additionally, it fosters connections and collaboration between faculties of business and economics.