Dutch Province Commits €375,000 Over Five Years to Help Small Businesses Find Investment

2026-05-07 community

Amsterdam, Thursday, 7 May 2026.
Noord-Holland province extends its successful PIM program through 2031, allocating €75,000 annually to help innovative small businesses become investment-ready. The program has already assisted 1,200 entrepreneurs in raising €290 million over 8.5 years, focusing on mission-driven sectors including energy transition, healthcare, and circular economy initiatives.

Program Extension Signals Continued Provincial Support

The Noord-Holland provincial government announced on May 1, 2026, its decision to continue funding the Programma Investeringsgereed Innovatief MKB (PIM) for an additional five-year period through 2031 [2]. The province will allocate €75,000 annually to support the program, representing a total commitment of 375000 euros over the extended timeframe [2][4]. This financial commitment demonstrates the province’s sustained dedication to fostering innovation within its small and medium-sized enterprise ecosystem, particularly those focused on circular economy initiatives and sustainable business practices.

Proven Track Record Justifies Investment

The decision to extend PIM builds upon a substantial foundation of success accumulated over 8.5 years of operation [1]. Since its inception, the program has assisted 1,200 entrepreneurs in developing their businesses and securing crucial funding [1]. Most significantly, PIM participants have collectively raised €290 million in capital, highlighting the program’s effectiveness in bridging the gap between innovative concepts and investor interest [1]. The program consistently receives high ratings from entrepreneurs who have participated, indicating strong satisfaction with the support provided [1].

Comprehensive Support Beyond Financial Assistance

PIM offers participating entrepreneurs up to six days of personalized support designed to enhance their investment readiness [1][2]. According to program information, this support includes tailored advice that can encompass developing financial models, creating comprehensive business plans, and identifying relevant partners within the innovation ecosystem [1]. The program specifically targets mission-driven sectors including Energy Transition & Sustainability, Agriculture, Water & Food, Health & Care, Safety, and Key Technologies [1]. Participants also gain access to an extensive network of financiers, businesses, knowledge institutions, and potential customers, facilitating faster business development and market entry [2][5].

Strategic Focus on Circular Economy Innovation

The program extension places particular emphasis on supporting entrepreneurs in their transition to circular business models [2][6][7]. Through PIM, entrepreneurs receive specialized assistance in developing circular business cases and securing financing for sustainability-focused initiatives [2][6]. This strategic focus aligns with broader provincial objectives to strengthen the circular economy in Noord-Holland, enabling businesses to contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability while achieving commercial growth. The program serves entrepreneurs across multiple sectors, including energy transition, sustainability, agriculture, water management, and healthcare [2][5], reflecting the diverse landscape of innovation within the province.

Bronnen

investment readiness SME innovation