Start and grow a startup in the Netherlands

If you are active in the field of app-development or other nondemanding technologies, chances are support is not or limited available. Please refer to SME Financing via MKBFinanciering@rvo.nl.
We offer different kinds of funding that are useful for innovative startups that just started their business or want to accelerate their growth in the Netherlands. Each type of funding is suitable for a specific TRL (Technology Readiness Level):
 

Proof-of-concept funding  |  TRL 0-6

Still in the early stage (idea phase) of development? You can use Proof-of-concept funding (Vroegefasefinanciering) to find out if your idea is technological and commercial feasible. Apply for proof-of-concept funding at the regional funds of:

• Gelderland
• Zuid-Holland
• Noord-Brabant
• Limburg
• Overijssel
• Noord-Holland
• Utrecht
• Zeeland

when your company is located in one of these provinces. Otherwise, apply at RVO. 

Tax credit R&D  |  TRL 0-9

Looking for a tax reduction on your payroll tax? Check out the Tax credit for research and development (WBSO)  when you have R&D activities in your company.
 

Innovation credit  |  TRL 3-9

Seeking financial support for your technical- or clinical risk development project? Innovation Credit  could be the one scheme for you.
 

Horizon Europe  | TRL 0-9

The European Union also supports innovative developments. There are many support programmes. The special RVO team of Horizon Europe  helps you with your quest.
 

Seed Capital  |  TRL7 and later

On the brink of your commercial phase? Seed Capital  can boost the market introduction of your technology.
 

Seed Business Angel  |  TRL 6/7 and later

Speed up your last development and prepare your commercial success with business angels organised in a fund: Seed Business Angel.

Is specific Dutch legislation getting in the way of your innovative idea? Or would you like to do business with the Dutch government? Then contact one of our startup officers at a ministry, province or municipality. Would you like to get free advice on funding, entries to networks, intellectual property rights or your internationalisation strategy? Please contact one of our advisors in an area near you.

Do you want to claim the name of your new startup? Protect your innovative idea? Or find out if someone else is already claiming an invention? RVO implements national and international patenting regulations within the Netherlands. Find out all you need to know about intellectual property or contact one of our expert advisors in your region:

When your business grows, you look for the most talented employees, outside the Netherlands or even outside Europe. 
At our Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) you can apply for residence permits for essential startup personel.
Also, you can become a recognised sponsor for highly skilled migrants. This sponsorship allows your recruited personel to obtain a fast-track residence permit. Becoming a recognised sponsor is often an interesting option for fast-growing companies.

Would you like to get some personal advice first? Please contact the Netherlands Point of Entry. Select 'Other' in the contact form.

We work together with several partner organisations. Check out their websites to see if they can be of help to you.