Invest-NL supports innovative pioneers with its First Time Right programme

Through the FTR programme, Invest-NL supports both entrepreneurs and the market by supplying the knowledge and expertise needed to realise innovative projects more quickly and more effectively. In this article Jorine Zandhuis, Business Development Manager at Invest-NL, explains how we make this happen.

“Solar parks, wind farms, electrical charging stations and other sustainable innovations have become an integral part of the Dutch landscape. Yet the lead-up to the first solar parks, for example, was a lengthy process that called for perseverance and endurance. These were projects for which no blueprint existed and so everything, from financing and permits to technical aspects such as installation and maintenance, had to be researched and set up for the very first time. The result was years of trial and error, but thanks to the determined efforts of some real pioneers, we have been able to make huge technological advances,” says Jorine.

But how exactly does the FTR programme work? It begins with a discussion between Invest-NL and the entrepreneur to identify the areas in which expert advice is needed. The right experts are then selected to take part in an advisory process, which is paid for by Invest-NL.

The store of knowledge gained is not only made available to the entrepreneur in question. With the exception of confidential information, Invest-NL also shares this knowledge with others on the market, so that they too can reap the benefits.

Jorine provides an example: “One company supported by this programme is PHA2USE, a pilot facility that produces biodegradable bio-plastics made from sewage sludge. It’s a process that focuses on addressing typical circular bottlenecks such as compliance advice on end-of-waste status. This centres on assessing whether waste has been turned into a distinct and marketable product, and includes a life cycle analysis to determine the environmental performance of the bioplastic. Another assignment focuses on technical support for the scaling up of plastic extraction equipment. It’s all about joining forces to help build expertise and practical experience in bioplastics and the circular economy.”

After the FTR project, the entrepreneurs also make themselves available to pass on their knowledge to new initiators and share their experience of upscaling and project development.

Through FTR, Invest-NL can provide targeted, practical support to a pioneering company while working towards more general societal transitions. A successful first project with an investor-ready business case can be a huge boost for other business cases in terms of upscaling and attracting finance.