Dutch Development Agencies Join Forces with Invest International to Boost Startup Growth
Netherlands, Thursday, 5 September 2024.
Regional development agencies in the Netherlands have partnered with Invest International to enhance support for innovative companies with global ambitions. The collaboration aims to improve access to investments, facilitate knowledge sharing, and organize joint trade missions, potentially transforming the Dutch startup landscape.
A Strategic Partnership for Innovation
The partnership between regional development agencies (ROMs) and Invest International is a significant move to support the burgeoning startup ecosystem in the Netherlands. By focusing on companies with international ambitions, the agreement aims to provide these businesses with better opportunities for growth and expansion. This collaboration is set to leverage the strengths of both parties, combining Invest International’s financial resources and global reach with the ROMs’ local expertise and networks.
Investment and Funding: A Look Back at 2023
In 2023, regional development agencies invested €219 million in 372 startups, scale-ups, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This was part of a larger fund amounting to €2.3 billion, showcasing the substantial financial commitment towards fostering innovation. Notably, over 50% of the companies that attracted venture capital did so with the support of regional development funds, highlighting the crucial role these agencies play in the startup ecosystem.
Invest International’s Role
Invest International brings to the table a significant €833 million in investment capital. Their primary focus is on supporting startups and scale-ups that address global challenges such as climate-neutral energy, sustainable food, and healthcare innovations. This strategic focus aligns well with the broader goals of sustainable development and positions Dutch companies to make substantial contributions on a global scale.
Knowledge Sharing and Export Financing
The agreement emphasizes knowledge sharing, particularly in the realm of green technology. Both parties will explore opportunities for export financing, which is crucial for companies looking to enter foreign markets. This includes potentially risky pre-investments necessary for market entry. The focus on green hydrogen is a key aspect of this knowledge-sharing initiative, aiming to bolster the Dutch position in sustainable tech sectors.
Joint Trade Missions: Strengthening International Ties
One of the notable provisions of the agreement is the organization of joint trade missions. These missions aim to strengthen the international position, competitiveness, and profitability of Dutch companies. By working together, the ROMs and Invest International can offer a comprehensive support system that facilitates international growth and enhances the Dutch economy’s earning potential.
Voices from the Leaders
Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt, General Director of BOM, emphasized the importance of internationalization alongside innovation for the Netherlands’ current and future earning capacity. Eelco Benink, Head of Equity at Invest International, highlighted the importance of collaboration between Invest International and regional development companies to optimally support Dutch companies in their international growth.
Aiming for a Sustainable and Progressive Economy
The overarching goal of this partnership is to contribute to a sustainable and progressive economy. By enhancing support for startups and scale-ups, the collaboration aims to foster innovation-driven growth. The emphasis on sectors like green technology, sustainable food, and healthcare innovations aligns with global sustainability goals and positions Dutch companies as leaders in these fields.