Dutch Agencies Boost Support for International Startups
Amsterdam, Wednesday, 25 September 2024.
Regional Development Agencies and Invest International join forces to enhance support for Dutch startups with global ambitions. The collaboration aims to improve access to investment opportunities, share knowledge, and organize joint trade missions, strengthening the Netherlands’ international competitiveness.
A Strategic Alliance
The partnership between the Dutch Regional Development Agencies (ROMs) and Invest International is poised to revolutionize the support ecosystem for startups in the Netherlands. This strategic alliance was formalized with the signing of a collaboration agreement, which took place on 25 September 2024. The agreement focuses on improving access to investment opportunities, facilitating knowledge sharing, and organizing joint trade missions.
Enhanced Investment Opportunities
One of the primary objectives of this collaboration is to provide better access to financing for startups with international ambitions. In 2023, ROMs invested €219 million from a total fund of €2.3 billion in 372 startups, scale-ups, and innovative SMEs. This initiative aims to build on that momentum by leveraging Invest International’s significant investment capital of €833 million, which focuses on scaling startups addressing global challenges such as climate-neutral energy, sustainable food, and healthcare innovations[1].
Facilitating Knowledge Sharing
Knowledge sharing is a crucial component of this partnership. By pooling resources and expertise, both ROMs and Invest International aim to create a more supportive environment for startups. This involves not only financial support but also mentoring and business development assistance. As Eelco Benink, Head of Equity at Invest International, noted, ‘A good collaboration between Invest International and regional development companies is crucial for optimally supporting Dutch companies in their international growth.’[1]
Joint Trade Missions
Another significant aspect of the agreement is the organization of joint trade missions. These missions are designed to help startups expand their market reach and establish international connections. By participating in these missions, startups can explore new markets, meet potential investors, and gain insights into global business practices. Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt, Director of Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij (BOM), emphasized the importance of internationalization, stating, ‘Internationalization is, alongside innovation, the pillar under the current and future earning capacity of the Netherlands.’[1]
Driving Innovation and Sustainability
The partnership’s focus is not limited to financial and market expansion. It also emphasizes driving innovation and sustainability. Invest International’s recent investments, such as the €30 million Series A investment in Battolyser Systems, highlight its commitment to supporting technologies that contribute to sustainability and innovation. Battolyser Systems, based in Schiedam, Netherlands, is developing the world’s only electrolyser with battery functionality, aimed at enhancing the flexibility and reducing the costs of green hydrogen[2].
Future Prospects
Looking forward, the collaboration aims to create a robust support system for startups across the Netherlands, including regions that have traditionally attracted less venture capital. The recent launch of Future Tech Ventures in Groningen, with a €20 million fund for early-stage startups, is an example of efforts to strengthen the startup ecosystem in the Northern Netherlands[3]. This initiative, alongside the ROMs and Invest International partnership, is expected to bolster the international position, competitiveness, and profitability of Dutch startups.