Innovators wanted!
It is of great importance that we continue to invest in digitalisation. Digitalisation enables entrepreneurs to work faster and smarter, thereby increasing labour productivity and enhancing earning potential in our region. Furthermore, we are living in a period of growing geopolitical tensions and shifting political landscapes. This makes it crucial to build greater digital autonomy.
North Holland is the largest ‘AI province’ in the Netherlands: 32% of all AI companies are based in this region.* This makes North Holland a key hub for innovation, research and start-ups. We see opportunities here for even further growth in the field of digitalisation. That is why we are looking for game-changers who develop innovative applications that strengthen digital autonomy, increase labour productivity and/or boost the region’s earning potential. Are you one of these game-changers? If so, please do read on!
* https://downloads.rankmyai.com/uploads/rankmyai-ai-report-netherlands-2025-3a71c.pdf
Investing in three domains
In practice, we see that startups often struggle to find growth funding. This is certainly true for quantum computing, which requires significant investment and for which the funding landscape is (not yet) geared. We support entrepreneurs in North Holland in becoming fundable, and we ourselves invest in that early stage where possible. In doing so, we focus on innovative digital solutions that are scalable and help other companies work more efficiently. We therefore consciously choose not to focus on consumer applications, but on technology that has a leveraged effect within the economy.
We do this within three domains:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Internet of Things
- Quantum computing
We support businesses through Innovate, Invest and build on ecosystems.
Stronger together
In addition to one-on-one guidance, ROM InWest actively positions itself within the innovation ecosystem through events, collaborations, and coalitions. For example, we co-established the Coalition of the Cloud, which aims to reduce dependence on Big Tech and strengthen European digital autonomy. We are also involved in GPT-NL, which offers an alternative to existing AI bots that are part of Big Tech and only uses qualitative, Dutch data. Furthermore, we contribute substantively to international platforms such as World Summit AI and Hello Tomorrow. By connecting the various regional networks – from startups and companies to knowledge and research institutions – we stimulate the development of solutions that not only have an impact in North Holland but also contribute to the digital resilience of the Netherlands.
Accelerator programmes for entrepreneurs
Do you have growth ambitions with your digital innovation? In a Accelerator programme You'll refine your proposition, market position and growth path by working with critical questions, targeted assignments and joint sessions with other entrepreneurs. Our business developers will gladly help you consider which programme best suits you.
Subsidy opportunities
Besides investments, there are also subsidy schemes that you may be eligible for, such as the SME Innovation Stimulation Top Sectors (MIT). We are therefore happy to point you to the possibilities via our subsidy guide.
Are you looking for investments, networking, or knowledge for your digital innovation?
Then we're here for you! We support gamechangers in North Holland: ambitious start-ups and scale-ups, and SMEs that contribute to the digital autonomy, increased labour productivity and/or earning capacity of North Holland through digital innovations. Get in touch and discover how we can help you.
