Netherlands Enterprise Agency

The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), part of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, is a key governmental body dedicated to fostering sustainable, agrarian, innovative, and international business development within the Netherlands. Unlike traditional venture capital firms, RVO does not typically make equity investments in companies. Instead, it acts as a facilitator and enabler, providing a wide array of financial instruments, including grants, subsidies, loans, and tax incentives, designed to stimulate economic growth and address societal challenges. Its primary objective is to support entrepreneurs in navigating complex regulations, accessing funding, and expanding their operations, thereby strengthening the Dutch economy.

Among its various financial offerings, the Innovation Credit (Innovatiekrediet) stands out as a significant direct funding mechanism for innovative businesses. This loan scheme is specifically designed to support high-risk research and development (R&D) projects with strong market potential. For industrial research projects, the Innovation Credit can cover up to 50% of the eligible project costs, while for experimental development, it covers up to 40%. The typical range for this loan is substantial, with a minimum check size of €200,000 and a maximum check size reaching up to €10,000,000, depending on the project's scope and nature. This makes it a crucial resource for startups and scale-ups engaged in groundbreaking R&D.

Beyond direct financial support, RVO also manages numerous other programs, such as the WBSO (Wet Bevordering Speur- en Ontwikkelingswerk), a tax credit for R&D activities, and various grants for environmental investments and energy innovation. The agency plays a pivotal role in connecting businesses with European funding opportunities and providing expert advice on international trade and investment. Its comprehensive approach underscores its commitment to creating a fertile ground for innovation and entrepreneurship, serving as a vital backbone for the Dutch business ecosystem rather than a direct equity investor.