Dutch Regional Agencies and Invest International Unite to Boost Startup Growth
Amsterdam, Friday, 4 October 2024.
Dutch regional development agencies partner with Invest International to enhance support for innovative startups with global ambitions. This collaboration aims to improve access to resources and funding, potentially accelerating the international expansion of Dutch startups and scale-ups.
Strategic Alliances for Global Ambitions
The collaboration between the Dutch regional development agencies, known as ROMs, and Invest International marks a significant strategic move to empower startups aiming for global reach. By pooling their resources and expertise, these organizations aim to create a robust support system for startups tackling global challenges, such as climate-neutral energy solutions, sustainable food production, and healthcare innovations[1].
Investment and Resource Allocation
In 2023, the ROMs invested €219 million in 372 startups, scale-ups, and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) out of a total fund of €2.3 billion[1]. Over half of these ventures attracted venture capital in part due to investments from regional development funds. Invest International, with its own investment capital of €833 million, plays a pivotal role in facilitating international expansion for these businesses, providing follow-up investments when startups mature into scale-ups and operate in an international context[1].
Focus on Internationalization
According to Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt, General Director of the Brabant Development Agency (BOM), the focus on internationalization alongside innovation is essential for the current and future earning capacity of the Netherlands[1]. The collaboration is poised to offer a launchpad for mission-driven startups, scale-ups, and SMEs with international ambitions, thereby enhancing the Netherlands’ earning capacity abroad.
Knowledge Sharing and Export Financing
The agreement extends beyond mere financial investments. It includes plans for knowledge sharing, particularly in areas like green hydrogen, and explores opportunities for Invest International to offer export financing[1]. This is crucial as entering foreign markets often requires risky pre-investments. Additionally, the collaboration will intensify joint trade missions, further bolstering the international growth of Dutch startups.
Building a Sustainable Economic Future
Eelco Benink, Head of Equity at Invest International, highlights the importance of this collaboration in strengthening the international position, competitiveness, and profitability of Dutch companies[1]. By combining the ROMs’ local insights and connections with Invest International’s expertise in financing international expansion and trade, the partnership aims to contribute to a sustainable and progressive economy, aligning with the broader goals of enhancing the Dutch entrepreneurial landscape.