Dutch Chamber of Commerce Launches 19th Innovation Top 100 Competition
Amsterdam, Friday, 28 June 2024.
The KVK invites innovative Dutch SMEs to apply for the prestigious Innovation Top 100 list. The competition recognizes businesses with original, impactful, and sustainable innovations across five categories. Applications are open until August 1, 2024.
Categories and Evaluation Criteria
This year, entrepreneurs can apply in one of five categories: Circular Economy, Energy Transition, Labor Market and Society, Food, Water and Infrastructure, and Health and Care. Each category will have twenty finalists, with three winners (gold, silver, and bronze) chosen by a panel of expert judges. The judges, who are well-versed in the latest market innovations, will assess the entries based on originality, growth potential, sustainability, and impact on the industry and society. To qualify, the product or service must already be on the market.
Application and Judging Timeline
Applications are open until August 1, 2024, and can be submitted via the website www.kvkinnovatietop100.nl. In October, the 100 selected companies and their innovations will be presented to the Dutch public. The winners will be announced during the KVK Innovation Top 100 Event in November 2024. At this event, the top innovator in each category will be revealed, and the overall most innovative SME in the Netherlands will be named, taking over the title from last year’s winner, Ferr-Tech.
Significance of the Innovation Top 100
The Innovation Top 100 is not just a list; it is a powerful showcase of the capabilities of Dutch SMEs. Judith le Fèvre, CEO of Ferr-Tech, which won last year, highlighted the impact of this recognition. She noted that winning the title of ‘Most Innovative SME’ has opened new doors, bolstered their innovation’s visibility, and strengthened their team’s resolve to continue addressing the growing issue of clean water scarcity. The initiative aims to demonstrate the potential of Dutch SMEs to innovate and contribute significantly to societal challenges.
Historical Context and Regional Representation
In the previous year’s competition, 20 companies from Gelderland and Overijssel made it to the list, showcasing the innovative spirit prevalent in East Netherlands. Notable companies supported by regional programs and investment funds, such as Enliven, TONOS Care, and Revyve, were among the finalists. NoPalm Ingredients from Wageningen secured second place, just behind Ferr-Tech from Meppel. While the competition does not offer a monetary prize, the recognition alone serves as a significant motivational and promotional tool for the participating companies.