Aanjager

Aanjager is a Dutch term used to describe a person, organization, policy, or phenomenon that accelerates development, growth, or activity. The word comes from aan- (towards, on) and jagen (to drive or chase). It is a flexible, non-technical label that is widely used in public discourse, business language, and policy discussion to denote something that pushes progress forward.

In economics and business, aanjager refers to a growth driver or accelerator. A sector, company, or technology can be described as een aanjager van de groei, contributing to expansion through increased investment, productivity, or demand. Government policy can also function as an aanjager, for example by spurring innovation, infrastructure spending, or energy transition efforts, thereby triggering further activity.

In urban planning and regional development, large-scale projects or strategic investments are often characterized as aanjagers of regeneration. They are expected to attract investment, create jobs, and stimulate related economic activity in surrounding areas.

In sports, the term can denote a player or tactic that sets the pace for a group or race, acting as a tempo-setter that motivates others to follow or exceed the performance.

The concept is common in Dutch media and policy discussions, where aanjager is used to identify key forces that drive progress. Depending on context, it can be translated as “driving force,” “driving factor,” “growth driver,” or “catalyst.”