Grants
and financing
Whether you're launching an innovative startup or turning a long-held passion into a business, choosing the right grant options and carefully planning your finances can make the difference between a successful startup and a challenging journey. In Groningen, businesses are encouraged to grow and innovate. Below is an overview of important information about grants and financing. Remember to seek professional advice and research your options before making a decision:
- A well-thought-out business plan is essential. It helps not only to define your business goals and strategies, but also to attract potential investors and lenders. On the KVK website you will find a handy overview.
- On the website Business.gov.nl of the Dutch government, you can find government information on financing and an overview of national subsidies for businesses.
- When a company comes to the Netherlands to start a new business, Dutch tax policy is an important factor. A solid combination of corporate tax rates in the Netherlands and financial incentives make the country a reliable choice as a base for international operations. The Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency provides an overview of incentives and information on the tax climate for international companies.
- The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland; RVO) encourages entrepreneurs in sustainable, agricultural, innovative and international business sectors. It runs various programs and has several grant schemes available to support different business initiatives. Find out more on the website Netherlands Enterprise Agency.
- The regional investment and development company NOM runs various programs and grant schemes for companies in the SME (small and medium enterprises) segment, and also invests in mergers and acquisitions. Discover all financing opportunities through NOM; contact them for more information in English.
- Het Fonds Nieuwe Doen is an initiative of the Province of Groningen and provides loans to initiatives in healthcare, livability and energy. Private individuals cannot take out a loan from the fund. For example, they can provide loans for construction, reconstruction, renovation and inventory of social accommodations, as well as sustainable energy generation such as LED lighting, insulation and solar panels.
- The Northern Netherlands Alliance (Samenwerkingsverband Noord-Nederland, SNN) provides grants, facilitates cooperation and performs a lobbying function for the three northern provinces: Groningen, Friesland and Drenthe.
- The Economic Board Groningen is committed to further strengthen the economic structure throughout the province of Groningen. The website is only available in Dutch; however, questions and support are available in English.
- At Venturelab North they believe that with the right guidance, you can be helped to develop the ideal competencies to turn your idea into a thriving business. Among other things, they can provide you with customized business programs and think with you about strategies and services.
- Furthermore, you still have the possibility of raising funding through Angel Investors and crowdfunding. Angel investors are individuals who are willing to invest in your business in exchange for equity. In addition to financial support, they can offer valuable experience and networking. Platforms for crowdfunding, such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo, allow you to raise money from a large number of people. This can help both generate funding and increase your brand awareness. Remember to seek professional advice and research your options before making a decision.
