Innovate, invest and intelligence
Now that I'm talking about our impressive figures, I'd also like to mention our business developers. In our first year, they had contact with no less than 202 entrepreneurs. We worked on BIP Food, to the Circular Top 20 and developed partnerships for the development and deepening of relevant ecosystems.
Innovate
We made the strategic choice not only to finance but to work according to an integral chain approach. In this way we strengthen the ecosystems that in turn lead to a better innovation climate in the region. We strengthen the business climate by supporting innovative entrepreneurs in developing their business cases. We also help these same entrepreneurs to attract investments; either from our own funds or by bringing them into contact with other investors from our network.
Invest
With the acquisition of the COL portfolio from COLNH, we received an amount of no less than 79 million euros under management; good for 285 loans to entrepreneurs in North Holland. We support the Province of North Holland in the implementation of the SME Innovation Stimulation Region and Top Sectors Feasibility (MIT Feasibility and MIT R&D). Of the 317 applications, 139 received a positive recommendation. By implementing these government regulations, we not only build a bridge between the government and the region, but we also gain a better insight into what innovative entrepreneurs are working on.
Intelligence
This acquired insight means that, in addition to the I for innovation and investment, I want to add a third I: the I for Intelligence. Current data in combination with our chain approach, makes us better aware of the latest trends and what entrepreneurs need to make a difference in the transitions of our time. Our aim is to concentrate this knowledge at ROM InWest in the coming period. For municipalities and provinces, our insights are interesting for developing policy; for example, for the creation of a circular economy in 2050 or accelerating the energy transition. Finally, this knowledge helps us to make our own organisation smarter and thus even more relevant for entrepreneurs. Innovative entrepreneurs in North Holland will also be our top priority in the coming year.
