Dutch Government Extends Techleap Program to Boost Start-Up Growth
The Hague, Tuesday, 23 September 2025.
The Dutch government extends the Techleap program for three years, enhancing start-ups’ access to risk capital and introducing a new employee participation scheme from January 2027.
Government’s Commitment to Innovation and Growth
The extension of the Techleap program by the Dutch government underscores a strategic commitment to fostering innovation and economic resilience in the Netherlands. By extending the program until 2029, the government aims to provide start-ups and scale-ups with increased access to risk capital and introduce a new employee participation scheme starting January 1, 2027. These measures are designed to support the creation of at least 10 new technology and market leaders in the Netherlands over the next decade [1].
Key Measures and Financial Support
Key components of the initiative include an additional €200 million for the European Tech Champions Initiative (ETCI), supplementing the previous allocation of €100 million. Furthermore, a €250 million Blended Finance instrument is being established to support the scaling of deeptech companies. The government is also working on establishing a national investment institution and has proposed an exemption for startup shareholders in Box 3 [1].
Addressing Societal Challenges Through Innovation
This extension is part of the broader National Technology Strategy launched in 2024 and aligns with the cabinet’s ambitions for growth companies outlined in 2023. The initiative aims to address pressing societal challenges by leveraging the innovative potential of start-ups, emphasizing the importance of technological solutions in enhancing societal resilience and economic stability [1].
Upcoming Events and Future Outlook
A debate titled ‘Groei of Stilstand – hét Nederlandse Tech Debat’ is scheduled for October 7, 2025, at The Hague Tech, where stakeholders will discuss the future of the Dutch tech ecosystem. The event aims to address how the Netherlands can maintain its leadership in the tech sector amid concerns about declining productivity and investment in R&D [2].