Dutch Scaleup Ecosystem: Ambition Gap Hinders Growth
Amsterdam, Friday, 23 August 2024.
Despite low fear of failure, Dutch entrepreneurs struggle with scaling businesses. The ‘Dutch Entrepreneurship Paradox’ reveals a preference for self-employment over growth. Women are particularly underrepresented in tech and innovation sectors, with few aiming for substantial growth compared to global peers.
Cultural Norms and Entrepreneurial Ambition
The Dutch entrepreneurial ecosystem is deeply influenced by cultural norms. The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) highlights that while Dutch entrepreneurs exhibit a low fear of failure, there is a societal preference for self-employment over scaling businesses[1]. This cultural mindset is encapsulated in the saying, ‘Just act normal, that is crazy enough as it is,’ which discourages high ambition and risk-taking. Consequently, many entrepreneurs in the Netherlands choose stability over the potential for substantial growth.
Gender Disparities in Entrepreneurship
The gender gap is particularly pronounced in the Dutch scaleup ecosystem. Despite an increase in the number of women entrepreneurs, those aiming for significant growth remain limited. Women are underrepresented in technology and innovation sectors, with the gap being notably smaller in innovative businesses compared to tech-driven ones[1]. This lack of representation and ambition among women entrepreneurs is a critical issue that needs addressing to foster a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial environment.
Ecosystem Support: The Role of Initiatives
Initiatives like Planet B.io at the Biotech Campus Delft are pivotal in providing the necessary ecosystem support for startups. This not-for-profit organization collaborates with various stakeholders to foster biotechnological innovations. By offering access to a network of experts, resources, and potential collaborations, Planet B.io helps businesses develop impactful biotech solutions[2]. However, such ecosystem support needs to be more widespread to help Dutch entrepreneurs, particularly women, attract venture capital and grow their businesses.
Comparative Success: Learning from Global Peers
A comparison with global peers reveals stark differences. In countries like Israel and the U.S., women entrepreneurs are more likely to pursue substantial growth. The European Innovation Council (EIC) also highlights that countries such as Germany and France have higher participation rates in innovation projects, with significant support from the EIC Accelerator program[3]. The Netherlands could benefit from similar robust ecosystem support and a shift in cultural attitudes to close the ambition gap.
Conclusion: Bridging the Ambition Gap
To bridge the ambition gap, the Netherlands must transcend its cultural norms that limit entrepreneurial aspirations. Supportive ecosystems, like Planet B.io, play a crucial role, but broader societal change is needed. Encouraging a culture of high ambition and risk-taking, along with targeted support for women entrepreneurs, can drive the Dutch scaleup ecosystem towards greater success. By learning from global peers and fostering a more inclusive environment, the Netherlands can unlock the full potential of its entrepreneurial talent.