Dutch Agencies Unite to Boost Global Reach of Innovative Startups
Amsterdam, Friday, 11 October 2024.
Regional development agencies in the Netherlands are collaborating with Invest International to enhance support for startups with international ambitions. This partnership aims to improve access to funding and resources, potentially accelerating the growth of Dutch innovative companies in the global market.
A Strategic Alliance for Global Ambitions
The collaboration between the Regional Development Agencies (ROMs) in the Netherlands and Invest International marks a significant milestone in the support ecosystem for startups. By combining their resources and expertise, these entities aim to provide a robust platform for startups and scale-ups addressing global challenges such as climate-neutral energy solutions, sustainable food, and healthcare innovations[1]. This agreement, formalized through a signed partnership, not only focuses on funding but also emphasizes knowledge sharing, export financing opportunities, and joint trade missions.
Funding and Support: A Dual Approach
In 2023, the ROMs invested €219 million in 372 startups, scale-ups, and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from their total fund capacity of €2.3 billion[1]. This funding approach, which significantly contributes to the venture capital landscape in the Netherlands, has been instrumental in the growth of many startups. As these companies evolve into scale-ups, Invest International steps in with its €833 million capital to support their international expansion. This dual funding strategy is designed to bolster the international competitiveness and earning potential of Dutch businesses[1].
The Importance of Internationalization
Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt, the General Director of the Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM), highlighted that internationalization, alongside innovation, forms the cornerstone of the current and future economic prosperity of the Netherlands[1]. By collaborating with Invest International, the ROMs can better support mission-driven startups, scale-ups, and SMEs with ambitions for international growth, thereby enhancing the Netherlands’ earning power abroad. This sentiment is echoed by Eelco Benink, Head of Equity at Invest International, who emphasized the importance of this partnership in optimizing support for Dutch companies as they pursue international growth[1].
Knowledge Sharing and Export Financing
Beyond funding, the agreement between the ROMs and Invest International also includes provisions for knowledge sharing, particularly in areas like green hydrogen, and the potential for Invest International to provide export financing[1]. As companies venture into foreign markets, the need for risky pre-investments arises, and this collaboration aims to mitigate such risks by intensifying cooperation through joint trade missions. This multifaceted approach ensures that Dutch companies not only survive but thrive in the competitive global market[1].