€1 Billion Investment by Dutch Agencies Spurs Innovation
Amsterdam, Tuesday, 30 September 2025.
Since 2021, nine regional development agencies in the Netherlands have invested over €1 billion, supporting 2,500 SMEs and advancing innovation, driving economic growth and internationalization.
A Collaborative Investment in Innovation
The collective effort by the nine regional development agencies (ROMs) in the Netherlands highlights a strategic push towards enhancing innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. Since 2021, these agencies have invested over €1 billion in various innovation projects, significantly benefiting more than 2,500 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) [1]. This substantial funding aims to strengthen the country’s innovation capabilities, thereby driving economic growth and international competitiveness.
Supporting SMEs and Internationalization
The investment has been instrumental in assisting SMEs to develop their innovations, particularly in the areas of internationalization and investment. By fostering an ecosystem that encourages knowledge sharing and financial support, the ROMs have empowered these businesses to expand beyond local markets [1]. This effort is not only vital for the growth of individual companies but also for enhancing the Netherlands’ position in the global market.
Regional Success Stories
In Noord-Holland, for instance, the development of Direct Carbon Immobilization technology by DOPS Recycling Technologies exemplifies the innovative breakthroughs fostered by regional support. This technology efficiently converts waste into reusable resources like syngas and activated carbon, while significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to traditional methods [1]. Such initiatives underscore the role of regional agencies in driving sustainable innovation.
Future Prospects and Economic Impact
The commitment to fostering a robust innovation ecosystem is evident in the ROMs’ approach to integrating regional, national, and European funding. This strategy not only accelerates societal transitions but also ensures a resilient economic framework for future developments [1]. The anticipated outcome includes higher labor productivity and a strengthened economic earning capacity for the Netherlands, bolstering its strategic autonomy on the international stage.