€ 60 million for innovative companies in Northern Netherlands

Entrepreneurs with ambitious plans in Groningen and North Drenthe often hit a wall when it comes to financing. Banks see the risk as too high, and other investors back out. To give these promising ideas a chance, the Economic Agenda Start Capital Fund was established as part of the Economic Agenda. This fund provides innovative companies and pioneering projects in the region with the financial boost needed to grow. Through the Northern Development Agency (NOM), entrepreneurs can apply for financing from €2.5 million to €25 million. With a total budget of €60 million, the fund invests purposefully in a strong, future-proof regional economy.

State Secretary Van Marum (BZK) is pleased that entrepreneurs can apply for funding from the fund starting today: “This makes it more attractive for both large and small entrepreneurs in Groningen and North Drenthe to stay or expand in the area. This is a great opportunity for the region. Other sectors, including healthcare and education, can also benefit.”

The Economic Agenda Start Capital Fund is an initiative of the Economic Agenda of Nij Begun. The Economic Agenda focuses on broad investments that strengthen the entire region around the themes of education, knowledge and labor market, space for business activity, digitization, and profiling. Additionally, the agenda focuses on investments in 5 specific sectors: sustainable energy, health, agriculture, industry, and leisure economy. The cabinet has made available €100 million per year from 2026 to 2056 (30 years) and a one-time Start Capital of €250 million.

In anticipation of upcoming regulations, this fund was established to invest in the region from the Start Capital aimed at broad prosperity. Every investment must directly contribute to the strategic goals and the 5 themes of the Economic Agenda. The projects will contribute to the earning capacity and employment in the province of Groningen or the North Drenthe municipalities of Noordenveld, Aa en Hunze, or Tynaarlo.

In implementing the Economic Agenda, existing organizations and structures are used as much as possible. Therefore, the fund is housed at the NOM, which manages the fund. Entrepreneurs can request an intake via www.fondsstartkapitaal.nl