Founded in 1946, Nyenrode was the first business school to be financed by the business community. In setting up the school, the founding fathers meant to realize an entirely new concept, to enrich the Dutch educational scene with an institution capable of producing talented and internationally-oriented people to help rebuild the national post-war economy. A strong character and an entrepreneurial spirit were essential ingredients with which to achieve the objective.

Nyenrode is the only private university in the Netherlands. The university offers graduate level programs in the fields of general management, law, and accountancy and controlling. Being highly selective, with a focus on candidates' motivation and social skills, Nyenrode Business Universiteit has created an environment in which students and faculty are all dedicated to bridging the gap between academic rigor and daily business practice.