The Netherlands is rapidly emerging as a thriving hub for start-ups in Europe, boasting a fertile ecosystem and unwavering government support for budding entrepreneurs. Despite its small size, the nation is leaving a significant mark on the global start-up scene, attracting top talent and substantial capital investments from around the world. Here’s why Dutch start-ups are making headlines and why the TopDutch region, located in the northern part of the Netherlands, is at the forefront of this entrepreneurial revolution.
European start-up powerhouse
The Netherlands stands proudly as one of the top five start-up destinations in Europe. This remarkable achievement is fueled by a commitment from the Dutch government, which is steadfast in nurturing the innovation leaders of the future. While it may be a small country, Dutch start-ups are gaining global recognition, creating a magnet for talent and investment on a grand scale.
In fact, the Netherlands boasts the fourth strongest start-up ecosystem within the European Union. At the heart of this remarkable journey is the €75 million ‘Ambitious Entrepreneurship Action Plan.’ This financial backing has propelled Dutch start-ups, enabling them to thrive and bring game-changing solutions to the market. The country’s business environment is renowned for fostering a diverse range of high-potential start-ups. Dutch start-ups, despite their size, are achieving substantial success in capturing venture capital funding.
TopDutch start-up ecosystem: A thriving hotspot
The TopDutch region in the Netherlands is a a powerful nucleus for innovative start-ups, including unicorns like HackerOne. It has the fastest-growing start-up ecosystem in the country, supported by dedicated innovation institutions.
Groningen, a province in the region, is home to the fastest-growing start-up ecosystem in the Netherlands. It is a hub for innovative tech start-ups and scale-ups, where collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential to success. These institutions foster a thriving entrepreneurial community.
Welcoming innovators: Relocation services in TopDutch
TopDutch is committed to helping entrepreneurs from all over the world start and grow their businesses in the Netherlands. They offer relocation services, visa assistance, mentorship, and other support to help entrepreneurs succeed.
One of TopDutch’s key initiatives is the Start-Up Visa NL program, which allows entrepreneurs from non-EU/EEA countries to live and work in the Netherlands. The program provides comprehensive support to entrepreneurs at every stage of their relocation journey.
Programs and financing: Nurturing the future
TopDutch is a region that is dedicated to supporting start-ups which are working to solve the world’s biggest problems. The region provides a variety of services and programs to help start-ups at all stages of development, from pre-seed to scale-up. TopDutch is also committed to attracting and helping international talent succeed in the region.
How to get started
Are you ready to be part of this thriving start-up ecosystem? Here’s a quick guide on how to embark on your entrepreneurial journey in TopDutch
- Get in touch: Reach out through the TopDutch contact page, by email, or directly to a dedicated industry project manager.
- Alignment meeting: Schedule a meeting with the regional project team to align objectives and identify your needs.
- Network roundtable: Based on your start-up’s requirements, a roundtable will be arranged with your future network, which may include facilitators, investors, or industry experts.
- Personalized start-up plan: A dedicated project manager will create a personalized start-up package, including a checklist of necessary arrangements and practicalities to ensure your successful launch in TopDutch.
- Settle into TopDutch: The International Welcome Center North (IWCN) assists with both bureaucratic and practical matters, as well as helping you make new friends, ensuring a smooth transition into the region.
- Business development: TopDutch’s Northern Netherlands Development Company (NOM) offers a range of business development programs tailored to the needs of (foreign) talent. These programs allow you to set up your business in the region.
- Facilitating financing: Once your business is ready to take the next step and requires an injection of capital, NOM provides access to a network of financiers and connects you with investors who share your vision.
- Ongoing support: Your dedicated project manager continues to support you throughout your start-up journey, ensuring you have the resources and guidance needed for success.
Join the innovative spirit of TopDutch, a region that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of entrepreneurship. Embrace this thriving ecosystem, unlock your potential, and be part of the next generation of global innovators.