Dutch Initiative Boosts Global Reach for Innovative Startups
Netherlands, Friday, 20 September 2024.
Regional development organizations and Invest International join forces to support Dutch startups with international ambitions. The collaboration aims to enhance access to investment, share knowledge, and facilitate export financing, potentially transforming local innovations into global solutions.
A Strategic Partnership
The recent agreement between the regional development organizations (ROMs) in the Netherlands and Invest International marks a significant step towards boosting the global reach of Dutch startups. Signed on Friday, 20 September 2024, this cooperation is designed to enhance the support and investment available to innovative companies with international ambitions. The key components of this collaboration include knowledge sharing, export financing opportunities, and the organization of joint trade missions aimed at international expansion.
A Look Back at 2023
In 2023, the ROMs demonstrated their commitment to fostering innovation by investing €219 million in 372 startups, scale-ups, and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from a total fund of €2.3 billion[1]. Over 50% of the companies that attracted venture capital received support from regional development funds, underscoring the critical role ROMs play in the Dutch innovation ecosystem[2].
Invest International’s Role
Invest International, with its significant investment capital of €833 million, is poised to support startups as they grow into scale-ups and pursue international opportunities. This organization specializes in financing international expansion and trade, providing the necessary capital for companies to navigate the complexities of entering foreign markets[2].
Focus on Global Challenges
The partnership specifically targets startups and scale-ups that address global challenges such as climate-neutral energy, sustainable food production, and healthcare innovations. By identifying portfolio companies that qualify for further investment, the ROMs and Invest International aim to maximize the impact of their support on these critical sectors[1].
Leaders’ Perspectives
Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt, General Director of the Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM), emphasized the importance of internationalization alongside innovation for the current and future earning capacity of the Netherlands. Similarly, Eelco Benink, Head of Equity at Invest International, highlighted the crucial role of their collaboration in supporting Dutch companies’ international growth, noting that the ROMs’ close regional contacts complement Invest International’s expertise in global finance[2].
Knowledge Sharing and Export Financing
The agreement also includes provisions for knowledge sharing, particularly in areas like green hydrogen, and exploring export financing options. This knowledge exchange aims to bolster the companies’ capabilities in tackling international market challenges and implementing sustainable practices. Joint trade missions will further enhance this initiative by providing hands-on experience in foreign markets[1].
A Sustainable and Progressive Economy
The overarching goal of this collaboration is to strengthen the international position, competitiveness, and earning capacity of Dutch companies while contributing to a sustainable and progressive economy. By focusing on green initiatives and other forward-thinking solutions, the ROMs and Invest International are setting the stage for Dutch startups to not only thrive but lead in the global market[2].