Dutch Tech Champions Call for Government Support in Deeptech Manifesto

Dutch Tech Champions Call for Government Support in Deeptech Manifesto

2024-10-23 community

Eindhoven, Wednesday, 23 October 2024.
CEOs of leading Dutch deeptech scaleups have drafted a manifesto urging political and investor support for critical technologies essential to the Netherlands’ economic future. The initiative highlights challenges in scaling up and calls for consistent policy, shared risk, and faster government action.

A Gathering at Nieuwspoort

In the heart of The Hague, at the iconic Nieuwspoort press center, ten CEOs representing the forefront of Dutch deeptech convened to present their manifesto. The event, though crowded with politicians, investors, and media representatives, underscored a poignant reality: the message seemed to resonate with those already convinced. The true challenge lay beyond the walls of Nieuwspoort, in reaching decision-makers yet to recognize the critical importance of deeptech in shaping the future of the Dutch economy.

The Manifesto’s Core Message

The manifesto, a collaborative effort of the NTS Tech Champions, calls for a paradigm shift in how the Netherlands approaches technological innovation. It emphasizes three main requests: consistent long-term policy support, accelerated funding access, and shared risks among government, academia, and the private sector. These elements are deemed crucial for nurturing an environment where scaleups can transition into fully-fledged commercial entities, thus securing the Netherlands’ competitive edge on the global stage.

Highlighting the Urgency

Eline van Beest, chairman of the NTS Tech Champions, passionately articulated the urgency of the situation. In a climate where potential unicorns are tempted to relocate to the U.S. for better funding opportunities, the manifesto acts as a clarion call for immediate action. The political landscape, with its slow-moving decision-making processes, poses a significant hurdle. This was highlighted by Tjark Tjin-A-Tsoi of TNO, who remarked on the years often taken by the government to make decisions, contrasted with the months that scaleups have to act.

Strategic Technologies for the Future

Outlined within the National Technology Strategy, the manifesto identifies key technologies pivotal for future growth. These include optics, quantum computing, green chemistry, biotechnology, AI, energy materials, semiconductors, and cybersecurity. Each represents a cornerstone of the Netherlands’ ambition to lead in technological advancements. The strategy not only aims to enhance the nation’s economic prospects but also addresses societal challenges such as declining labor productivity, as noted by Ingrid Thijssen of VNO-NCW.

Looking Ahead

As the meeting concluded, the sentiment echoed by many attendees was clear: the future of Dutch deeptech hinges on swift, decisive action. With supportive policies and investor backing, the Netherlands could transform these burgeoning scaleups into global leaders in innovation. The manifesto serves not only as a roadmap for technological advancement but as a call to action to secure the economic and social prosperity of future generations. ‘It’s about our children and our grandchildren,’ Thijssen poignantly stated, underscoring the long-term stakes involved.

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innovationorigins.com siliconcanals.com thenextweb.com deeptech manifesto www.superlightphotonics.com