Dutch Agencies and Invest International Collaborate to Fund Startups
Amsterdam, Friday, 24 January 2025.
In 2025, Dutch regional agencies and Invest International partner to support startups through funding, export financing, and trade missions, enhancing the Dutch startup ecosystem.
Major Investment Commitment
Regional Development Companies (ROMs) are leading the charge in Dutch startup innovation, having invested €219 million in 372 startups, scale-ups, and innovative SMEs in 2023, drawing from their total fund capital of €2.3 billion [1]. This collaboration is further strengthened by Invest International’s substantial investment capital of €833 million [1], creating a robust foundation for supporting Dutch enterprises with international ambitions.
Strategic Focus Areas
The partnership specifically targets startups addressing global challenges, including climate-neutral energy solutions, sustainable food production, and healthcare innovations [1]. This strategic alliance enables ROMs to identify portfolio companies ready for international expansion, while Invest International can direct early-stage companies to appropriate regional development agencies [1]. The collaboration demonstrates the Netherlands’ commitment to fostering innovation-driven growth across various sectors.
Recent Success and Regional Impact
The effectiveness of this collaborative approach is already evident in recent developments. For instance, in Utrecht, four international EdTech companies announced their European operations establishment on January 23, 2025 [3], demonstrating the growing appeal of Dutch innovation hubs. Additionally, significant developments are taking place in regions like Twente, where advanced technology initiatives are receiving support through this collaborative framework [4].
Future Outlook
According to Wendy de Jong, chair of ROM-Nederland, regional collaboration is crucial for attracting investments and fostering economic growth [5]. The partnership between ROMs and Invest International aims to strengthen the Netherlands’ competitive position internationally while contributing to a sustainable and progressive economy [1]. This collaborative approach is expected to provide startups with enhanced access to both domestic and international markets, supporting their growth trajectories.