Investments in startups in the Netherlands have fallen 15% so far this year, according to new figures from the Dutch Startup Association (DSA). The number of deals signed in the first nine months of the year reached 258, compared with 304 in the same period in 2023, causing concern in the sector. Particularly, pre-seed investments have been lagging, which could have consequences for longer-term investors, researchers say.
The number of deals in Q3 is at the lowest level since 2021. Lucien Burm, chairman of the DSA, said, “The decline appears to be a downturn in angel investments. We have been calling for measures to stimulate these investments for years.
Dutch startup deals decline
Our surrounding countries are booking successes with such measures.”
Despite the decline in the number of deals, the total investment in financial terms has increased. Some €2 billion has been invested in Dutch startups and scale-ups so far this year, compared with €1.3 billion in the same period last year.
The DSA remains optimistic about the overall investment in Dutch startups for the year. “With a quarter still to go, 2024 is likely to be a good year for investment in Dutch startups,” the association said. The figures highlight the need for measures to stimulate angel investments and support pre-seed funding for startups in the Netherlands.
As surrounding countries have seen success with such measures, the Dutch startup ecosystem could benefit from similar initiatives to maintain its competitiveness and foster innovation.
