Innovative Dutch companies with international ambitions will now have enhanced opportunities for support and investment, thanks to a new cooperation agreement between Regional Development Agencies (RDAs known als ROMs in NL) and Invest International. This strategic partnership aims to bolster the international growth of startups and scale-ups, with a particular focus on those addressing global challenges such as climate-neutral energy, sustainable food systems, and healthcare innovations.
Dutch startup ecosystem
ROMs play a pivotal role in the Dutch startup ecosystem, having laid the foundation for the majority of the country’s innovative startups. In 2023 alone, ROMs, with total fund assets of €2.3 billion, invested €219 million in 372 startups, scale-ups, and innovative SMEs. Notably, over 50% of Dutch companies that secure venture capital do so with the help of regional development funds. As these startups scale, many naturally evolve into international players. The collaboration with Invest International can enable these companies to access additional investments, supporting their growth on a larger, global scale. Invest International, with fund assets of €833 million, stands ready to assist in this endeavor.
Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate closely to identify promising portfolio companies within the ROMs’ networks that could benefit from international follow-up investments by Invest International. Likewise, Invest International will guide early-stage companies to the relevant ROMs in their region, ensuring a seamless support pathway from startup to global expansion.
Signing of the agreement by Invest International and the ROMs, represented by Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt and Eelco Benink.
Brigit van Dijk-van de Reijt, General Director of the Brabantse Ontwikkelings Maatschappij, representing ROM-Nederland:
“Internationalization, alongside innovation, is key to the current and future economic strength of the Netherlands. Through our partnership with Invest International, we are better positioned to accelerate the growth of mission-driven startups, scale-ups, and SMEs with global ambitions, thereby enhancing the Netherlands’ economic impact abroad.”
Eelco Benink, Head of Equity at Invest International:
“Strong collaboration between Invest International and regional development agencies is essential for providing Dutch businesses with optimal support in their global expansion. While the agencies maintain close relationships with local businesses, Invest International brings expertise in financing international growth and trade. Together, we bolster the global presence, competitiveness, and profitability of Dutch companies, driving a sustainable and forward-looking economy.”
Export finance + knowledge sharing
The agreement goes beyond investment and includes commitments to knowledge sharing, with a particular emphasis on emerging sectors such as green hydrogen. Additionally, both parties will explore the potential for Invest International to provide export financing, a crucial factor for companies entering foreign markets that often require substantial upfront investments. The partnership will also see intensified cooperation on joint trade missions, further supporting Dutch companies in their international ventures.
