Netherlands Launches SecFund to Boost Dual-Use Technology Innovation
Amsterdam, Wednesday, 4 June 2025.
SecFund, an investment fund with an initial €25 million, aims to grow to €100 million, supporting dual-use technology development applicable in both civil and defense sectors, enhancing national security.
A Strategic Commitment to Innovation
The Netherlands has announced the launch of SecFund, a new investment initiative aimed at supporting dual-use technology startups and scale-ups. This fund, with an initial value of €25 million and plans to expand to €100 million, seeks to promote technologies that have applications in both civilian and defense arenas. This strategic move is driven by the country’s goal to bolster national security amidst increasing international competition and evolving technological landscapes [1][2].
Funding Through Public-Private Partnerships
SecFund has emerged as part of a broader trend towards public-private partnerships in the Netherlands. The initiative is backed by the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and several Regional Development Corporations, including the Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij which is handling the fund’s operations. This collaborative approach aims to support innovative companies that, despite high capital needs, often struggle to secure traditional financing due to the specific nature of dual-use technologies [3][4].
Criteria and Growth Path
Eligible companies can apply for up to €5 million from SecFund to develop groundbreaking technologies like LiFi, advanced radio technologies, and potentially other sectors catering to both civil and military uses. Following a successful application, continued funding is contingent on progress and ongoing interest from the Dutch Ministry of Defense as a potential buyer. This layered investment strategy ensures that the funds are allocated effectively to areas with the most promise for innovation and security enhancement [5].
Initial Success and Future Prospects
After announcing its establishment in October 2024, SecFund has already attracted the interest of over seventy companies, with its first investment awarded to a defense sector enterprise. This indicates robust market demand for dual-use technologies and underscores the essential role of SecFund in bridging the financing gap. Looking forward, the ongoing engagement of government and industry stakeholders will be crucial in steering the fund towards its €100 million target, anticipated in the coming years [1][6].