New Netherlands Fund Boosts Dual-Use Technology Startups
Amsterdam, Wednesday, 11 June 2025.
SecFund supports Dutch startups in dual-use tech, launching with €25M, expandable to €100M, enhancing innovation that serves both civilian and defense needs.
A Strategic Launch for Dual-Use Innovation
SecFund, a newly established investment fund, is dedicated to supporting Dutch startups, scale-ups, and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) investing in dual-use technologies, which cater to both civilian and defense applications. Launched with an initial size of €25 million, it has the potential to expand up to €100 million, thus presenting a formidable financial commitment to fostering innovation in these sectors. The fund was officially launched on 9 June 2025 by the Ministry of Defense, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Regional Development Agencies [1][2].
Bridging Financial Gaps for Innovators
One of the primary objectives of SecFund is to bridge the financial gap faced by companies innovating in the dual-use space, where traditional financing often hesitates due to perceived risks associated with military applications. The fund enables these companies to apply for up to €5 million per enterprise with possibilities for follow-up investments based on their progress and strategic interest from the Ministry of Defense [1]. This financial support is critical in overcoming barriers and facilitating the development and scaling of technologies like advanced communication systems and radiotechnologies [1][5].
Strengthening National and Economic Security
The launch of SecFund comes at a pivotal moment when global security concerns have prompted the Netherlands government to increase defense spending by €1.1 billion annually starting in 2025. This initiative aligns with a broader governmental push aimed at doubling military personnel from 70,000 to 200,000 by 2030. By promoting dual-use technologies, the government seeks to enhance both national security and the country’s competitive edge in global innovation. Such strategic investments underscore the importance of civilian ingenuity in bolstering military capabilities [2][3].
Shaping the Future of Dutch Innovation
The expected impact of SecFund is significant as it aligns with Dutch ambitions to reinforce its position within the international tech industry. Since its announcement, over seventy companies have expressed interest, and the first funding has already been allocated to a company within the defense sector, illustrating the high demand and potential impact of this initiative [1]. As SecFund continues to nurture groundbreaking technologies, it represents a critical step toward transforming the Netherlands into a hub for dual-use innovation, further bridging civilian and military applications to tackle both economic and security challenges [2][3][5].