Insights

The Dutch tech ecosystem remains strong, but scaling remains the central challenge. Based on Techleap’s State of Dutch Tech 2026, this article discusses foreign capital, deeptech, AI talent, scale-up growth and the legal issues founders and investors should prepare for.

The Dutch coalition agreement “Aan de slag” recognises startups and scaleups as drivers of economic growth and innovation. This article explains what the plans may mean in practice for founders, management teams and investors.

On 5 February 2026, Dirk de Waard spoke at the Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association about foreign investment, China, Hong Kong, Vifo, Nexperia, ASML and the implications for international entrepreneurs, investors and their representatives.

Practical insights on Dutch M&A transactions, including acquisitions of Dutch companies, purchase price mechanisms, warranties, disclosure, employee transfer and post-closing disputes.

Startups and scaleups in the Netherlands face specific legal and structural risks when they grow. This article explains the key findings from the Techleap–Panteia study and why they matter for founders, management teams and investors.

Foreign founders and investors often use convertible loans, SAFEs, KISS or EPOS/ASAP in early-stage Dutch startup financing. These instruments can be fast and practical, but must be aligned with Dutch BV law, shareholder approvals, pre-emption rights, notarial share issuance and future financing rounds.

With SAR, the employee does not receive shares, but a receivable on the value development of a share in a company. Viotta lawyer Dirk de Waard explains.

In Dutch M&A transactions, a non-binding LOI may still create legal risks. Learn when parties can walk away from negotiations under Dutch law.

Dutch directors are not personally liable for ordinary business failure. But liability may arise where directors move value away from the company, prefer related parties or knowingly leave creditors without recourse.