ROM InWest Enhances Support for Startups in North Holland
Haarlem, Monday, 24 November 2025.
ROM InWest partners with the revamped GO!-NH program to boost innovative companies in North Holland, focusing on market entry and growth with a data-driven approach.
A Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth
The GO!-NH program, recently revitalized in North Holland, aims to bolster the regional innovation ecosystem by offering comprehensive support to startups and scale-ups. ROM InWest, a regional development agency, plays a pivotal role in this initiative by facilitating the program’s structure and implementation. The program is structured around three key phases: Market Readiness, Scaling Readiness, and Alumni engagement, all designed to guide companies from inception to scaling with a robust, data-driven framework [1].
Innovative Framework and Collaboration
The program incorporates the StartupFramework©, a methodology developed by Gritd and Tekkoo, which emphasizes a fact-based approach to business development. This framework provides startups with workshops and coaching sessions focused on achieving market fit and scaling their operations. Stef Mellema, a business developer at ROM InWest, highlights the importance of this approach, noting its reliance on empirical data rather than intuition [1].
Broadening the Scope of Support
Beyond startups, the GO!-NH program extends its services to established small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that are developing new and innovative products or services. This inclusive strategy seeks to address a broader spectrum of the regional business landscape, thereby enhancing the overall economic development in North Holland. Participation in the program is accessible at no cost, contingent upon registration and selection, which underscores its commitment to fostering innovation without financial barriers [1].
Collaborative Efforts Across North Holland
The success of the GO!-NH program is underpinned by its collaborative nature, involving various stakeholders such as municipalities, knowledge institutions, financiers, and network organizations. Entities like Ontwikkelingsbedrijf NHN and PIM are integral to the program’s execution, providing a network that supports the growth and sustainability of innovative businesses in the region. This collective effort is a testament to North Holland’s dedication to cultivating a vibrant and resilient innovation ecosystem [1].