There are numerous initiatives aimed at improving the financing climate for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Netherlands, including those with international ambitions. Yet, banks often remain cautious due to country risks and the relatively small size of transactions. That’s where Invest International steps in offering financing solutions, increasingly in collaboration with companies’ primary banks.
Financing for international growth
Invest International provides a range of financing solutions, from investment loans and export financing to equity investments and development capital. The team of investment managers works closely with commercial banks such as Rabobank, ABN AMRO, and ING.
“Clients continue to work with their own bank, while we co-finance their international activities. Either as a co-financier with a guarantee or as the sole financier, always in coordination with the company’s bank,” says Koen Hamers, Head of SME and Midcorps at Invest International. “Our goal? To help build a market where healthy Dutch companies with strong business plans can grow internationally, contributing to both their own development and the Dutch economy.”
SMEs and export
Strong collaboration within the Dutch financial ecosystem is essential to effectively support SMEs. SMEs account for 62% of the Netherlands’ GDP and two-thirds of all jobs, making them the backbone of the Dutch economy. This collaboration is also vital to maintaining the international trade position. One in three jobs in the Netherlands is directly or indirectly linked to exports. In 2023, Dutch exports generated €375.9 billion, according to the CBS report Nederland Handelsland 2025.
To better understand the challenges and opportunities in SME financing, Stichting MKB Financiering (foundation for SME financing) conducted research as part of the National SME Financing Covenant. The study revealed that financing needs under €1 million are particularly complex. As a result, more companies are turning to non-bank financing. Both political and business leaders are calling for simplification and stronger collaboration within the financial ecosystem. Minister Vincent Karremans of Economic Affairs recently emphasized in a letter to Parliament: “Not more rules, but simplification and collaboration.”
Financing factory Morocco
The partnership between Invest International and banks is already bearing fruit. For example, Skylla Europe—a specialist in medical textile solutions—was able to open a new factory in Morocco thanks to financing from Rabobank and a guarantee from Invest International. The facility creates 350 jobs, primarily for women, and produces innovative healthcare products such as the “flying mattress,” which helps safely move patients.
“As a primary bank, we support entrepreneurs worldwide with SME financing, sector expertise, and a broad network. Our collaboration with Invest International allows us to provide financing even in markets where commercial options are limited or unavailable,” says Henry Smit, Head of the International Desk Africa at Rabobank. “Together, we enable international growth for Dutch companies. Skylla, Iribov, and ByBlue are great examples.”
Iribov, a leading plant propagation company using tissue culture, also expanded its facilities in Ghana through joint financing from Invest International and Rabobank. With experience in over 500 crops and an annual output of 50 million plants, Iribov contributes to sustainable agriculture worldwide and strengthens the international position of the Dutch horticulture sector.
“Our collaboration with Invest International allows us to provide financing even in markets where commercial options are limited or unavailable” – Henry Smit, Head of the International Desk Africa at Rabobank
Public-Private collaboration
Invest International often sees that its involvement sparks interest from banks once a company proves successful. “Our financing acts as a flywheel,” says Hamers.
This was the case with Envipco, a producer of reverse vending machines that support the EU’s goal to collect 90% of packaging waste separately by 2029. In 2023, Envipco partnered with Invest International after struggling to secure financing for its European market entry, even with its primary bank, ABN AMRO.
“We saw potential in Envipco’s proven success in the U.S. and the growing demand for recycling solutions in Europe,” Hamers explains. “With our loan, Envipco launched large-scale production in Romania. Now that the foundation is in place, ABN AMRO is financing the next phase, backed by an Invest International guarantee.”
Jesse Knol from ABN AMRO’s Corporate Banking division adds: “For international sustainable innovations, collaboration is key. Invest International complements our financing with guarantees and public funds, enabling us to do more together for companies like Envipco. A great example of public-private synergy.”
“Invest International complements our financing with guarantees and public funds, enabling us to do more together for companies” – Jesse Knol from ABN AMRO’s Corporate Banking division
Financing blueberries Peru
Another example of public-private financing is ByBlue, a Dutch company cultivating blueberries for import and export. While Rabobank provided financing in the Netherlands, expansion into Peru proved challenging. Through the Dutch Good Growth Fund—managed by Invest International on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs—ByBlue secured €3.5 million to invest in a new production site in Peru’s Ica Valley. This region’s unique microclimate allows for an extended harvest season. ByBlue will also grow its own proprietary varieties, gaining more control over the value chain and ensuring year-round premium quality.
This is a win-win. For banks, it’s crucial to continue supporting clients even when international ambitions come with higher risks. Invest International takes on those higher risks, enabling international growth in partnership with the banks.
This article was originally published in globe magazine of trade organisation evofenedex in Dutch, read the article here.
