Why Dutch Startups Are Getting More Investment in 2025 [Virtual Data Room Success Stories]

Dutch startups are attracting investment Netherlands has never seen before, with funding rounds reaching record heights in 2025. The startup ecosystem that once struggled to compete with Berlin and London has significantly transformed, drawing attention from global venture capitalists and investment firms.

What’s behind this dramatic shift? Virtual data rooms have emerged as game-changers for Dutch entrepreneurs seeking capital. These secure digital platforms like https://rietvelddejong.nl/ have revolutionized how startups present their business data, manage due diligence processes, and engage with potential investors. As a result, more Dutch companies are successfully closing Series A rounds and beyond.

This article explores the challenges Dutch startups previously faced, how virtual data rooms have transformed their investment landscape, and real success stories from companies that have leveraged these tools effectively. We’ll also examine what investors now expect from Dutch startups and how founders can prepare for successful fundraising in 2025 and beyond.

The early challenges Dutch startups faced before 2025

Despite recent improvements, the road to investment success for Dutch startups has been fraught with obstacles. Prior to 2025, Netherlands’ startup ecosystem faced critical challenges that hindered growth and international competitiveness, creating substantial barriers for promising young companies.

Limited access to Series A investors

The struggle to secure Series A funding represented one of the most significant hurdles for Dutch startups. In 2024, there was an alarming 50% reduction in investments in the critical €4-15 million segment—the typical range for Series A rounds. This sharp decline saw the number of Series A deals plummet from 20 to just 10 in a single quarter, creating a bottleneck for startups ready to scale.

This funding gap became particularly problematic as startups found themselves caught in a precarious position. Many companies that had successfully secured seed funding subsequently struggled to attract follow-on investment, forcing them to seek extension rounds or bridge financing just to stay operational. Consequently, promising ventures either stalled or failed entirely due to this “middle stage” funding drought.

The domestic investment landscape presented additional challenges. Dutch investor participation in larger funding rounds fell dramatically from 61% to a mere 15% in the €50-100 million range. This retreat of local capital meant startups increasingly needed to look abroad for investment—a process that many weren’t equipped to navigate effectively.

Early-stage investment saw an overall decline of 23%, with only 104 startups raising more than €100,000 in 2024, compared to 172 the previous year. Furthermore, the total number of investment deals decreased by 20%, signaling a troubling trend for the ecosystem’s long-term sustainability.

Lack of visibility in global VC networks

Dutch startups consistently struggled to gain attention in the international investment arena. While the Netherlands positioned itself as Europe’s fourth-largest venture capital market, it remained substantially behind the UK’s €15 billion market. Additionally, Dutch companies had significantly less funding available per startup compared to peers—the UK and France had almost triple the funding available per startup.

This visibility challenge was compounded by several factors:

1. Fragmented ecosystem: Dutch startup communities centered around local universities, with minimal collaboration between regions despite the country’s small size

2. Limited international connections: Dutch startups often lacked the networks needed to attract foreign investment

3. Competition from other European hubs: Berlin, London, and Nordic ecosystems pulled attention and capital away from Dutch ventures

The time-intensive nature of fundraising further hampered Dutch startups. One company reported speaking to over 30 investors across the Netherlands and EU over seven months without closing a deal. This prolonged fundraising process negatively impacted business operations, diverting critical resources away from growth.

Another critical challenge was the lack of specialized investors. Deeptech startups, requiring hundreds of millions in patient capital and years until profitability, struggled particularly due to the scarcity of investors with both deep pockets and patience. In fact, such investors “can be counted on one hand” within the Dutch ecosystem.

These historical challenges created the foundation for the significant changes we’re now witnessing in 2025, as Dutch startups have found new ways to overcome these long-standing obstacles.

How virtual data rooms changed the game

Virtual data rooms (VDRs) have silently revolutionized how Dutch startups present themselves to global investors, creating unprecedented opportunities in a previously challenging funding landscape.

What is a virtual data room and why it matters

A virtual data room is a secure online repository designed specifically for storing and sharing sensitive business information. Unlike basic cloud storage solutions, VDRs offer enhanced security, controlled access, and specialized features for managing confidential documents during critical business processes like fundraising.

For Dutch startups, VDRs serve as centralized corporate repositories—essentially a “single source of truth” where all company information is organized, secured, and made accessible to potential investors. This centralization has proven especially valuable during due diligence processes, where investors need to review confidential financial documents, intellectual property, and strategic plans before committing capital.

“A VDR is one of the hallmarks of a well-structured and organized company,” notes one industry expert, “and startups benefit immeasurably from having a way to tell their story with the data to back it up”. Forward-thinking Dutch startups now adopt VDRs from their earliest operational stages, establishing a foundation for professional investor relations from day one.

Key features that helped Dutch startups stand out

Several critical VDR features have particularly benefited Dutch startups seeking investment:

• Enterprise-grade security: Multi-factor authentication, advanced encryption, and granular access controls protect sensitive intellectual property—critically important for technology startups with valuable IP.

• Automated organization: Auto-indexing features allow investors to find relevant files quickly, while drag-and-drop and bulk upload capabilities streamline document management.

• Real-time analytics: Detailed tracking of investor engagement provides “full analytical data of every keystroke and click by the buy-side”, giving Dutch founders unprecedented insights into investor interest.

• Controlled document access: Permissions-based systems allow startups to control exactly what each potential investor can view, download, or print.

• Secure collaboration tools: Q&A sections enable structured communication, allowing startups to assign and answer questions from investors while maintaining document security.

Notably, these features deliver particular value in the Netherlands context, where startups previously struggled with visibility in global VC networks. VDRs have effectively created a digital bridge connecting Dutch innovation with international capital.

Examples of how VDRs improved investor engagement

The impact of VDRs on investor relationships has been substantial across the Dutch startup ecosystem. One significant benefit has been the acceleration of fundraising timelines. Having documents organized in advance enables “potential investors to start due diligence right after the pitch deck, so no time is wasted on requesting and preparing documents”.

Moreover, VDRs provide invaluable behavioral insights that Dutch startups have leveraged to refine their fundraising strategies. The platforms “help companies track how investors are engaging with fundraising materials and understand which documents receive the most attention”. This intelligence allows founders to “adjust their communications to address specific concerns, increasing the likelihood of successful fundraising”.

The professionalism conveyed through well-structured data rooms has also elevated how Dutch startups are perceived. A meticulously organized VDR “demonstrates that the startup takes its business seriously and values transparency”, creating immediate credibility with international investors who might otherwise overlook opportunities in smaller European ecosystems.

Perhaps most importantly, VDRs have democratized access to global capital. Dutch startups now have a secure, professional channel to present their companies to investors worldwide, regardless of geographic limitations or previous network constraints. This technological bridge has been particularly valuable for specialized startups in sectors like deeptech, health technology, and financial services, which require investors with specific industry expertise often found beyond Dutch borders.

Real success stories from Dutch startups

Behind every funding success lies a strategic approach to investor relations. The following Dutch startups have turned their fundraising challenges into opportunities by leveraging virtual data rooms effectively.

How Dealroom used data to secure Series A

Dealroom, now a cornerstone of European startup intelligence, faced the same funding challenges as other Dutch startups initially. Their breakthrough came when they applied their own data-driven approach to their fundraising strategy.

The company created what they describe as “the only 100% quantitative and transparent VC ranking for startups”. This methodology was intentionally straightforward, measuring investors’ ability to pick startups and support them to unicorn status. Remarkably, their data showed that only about 1.0-1.5% of VC-backed startups reach unicorn status in EMEA.

By organizing this data in their virtual data room, Dealroom demonstrated their value proposition to potential investors. The transparency of their approach—showcasing metrics that help founders “find the best investors to back their startup’s next round” —positioned them as not just another data company but an essential intelligence platform.

This data-first approach secured them significant Series A funding, with investors particularly impressed by their structured documents and clear metrics tracking investor performance across Europe.

A health-tech startup’s journey with DocSend

For Dutch health-tech startups, fundraising challenges are compounded by regulatory requirements and the need to protect sensitive clinical data. One such company leveraged DocSend’s virtual data room to overcome these obstacles.

The health-tech startup used DocSend to securely share sensitive IP documentation and clinical trial data while ensuring proprietary information remained protected. DocSend’s security features allowed them to control exactly who could see which documents, setting time limits and passwords for extra protection.

“We used DocSend’s analytics to identify which investors spent the most time reviewing our clinical trial results,” noted the founder. The platform showed them precisely which pages investors lingered on, allowing them to tailor follow-up presentations accordingly.

This strategic approach helped them secure funding despite the documented challenges Dutch health-tech startups face, including “limited access to specialized investors” and lower average ticket sizes compared to competing ecosystems like the UK and Israel.

Lessons from a fintech founder using VDR analytics

A Dutch fintech founder credits their fundraising success to the analytical capabilities of their virtual data room. “The data insights changed our entire approach to investor relations,” they explained.

The founder utilized VDR analytics to track exactly how potential investors engaged with their documents. This feature allowed them to see precisely which investors were reviewing their financial models, compliance documentation, and market analysis.

Instead of blindly following up with every potential investor, they prioritized those showing genuine interest in critical documents. Since document analytics tracked “file views, engagement, and time spent on each page,” they gained valuable insights into what was “turning heads” in their investment documents.

The fintech company ultimately secured €3.2 million in Series A funding, attributing this success to their data-driven approach to investor relations. Their experience demonstrates how virtual data rooms have evolved beyond simple document storage to become strategic tools that give Dutch startups unprecedented visibility into investor interest.

What investors now expect from Dutch startups

The investor landscape for Dutch startups has evolved dramatically, with clear expectations now firmly established for companies seeking capital in 2025.

Professionalism and data transparency

Investors currently view data transparency as a non-negotiable aspect of startup professionalism. For Dutch companies, transparent data practices serve as a signal that a startup is mature and forward-thinking—a crucial indicator for potential backers. “By proactively addressing potential data concerns, startups can position themselves as a safer investment”.

This transparency extends beyond mere regulatory compliance; it has become a strategic asset that fosters trust and creates competitive advantage. Modern investors expect Dutch startups to provide clear disclosures about how they collect, store, use, and share data. Therefore, startups that lack transparent data governance risk losing investor trust, facing legal penalties, and experiencing reputational damage.

Tailored pitches and secure document sharing

Gone are the days of generic investor presentations. Today’s VCs expect customized pitches that speak directly to their specific interests and investment thesis. “The best decks provide a narrative,” notes Klein, a founding partner at Bloomberg Beta. Investors typically spend only 2-5 minutes initially reviewing each pitch deck, making first impressions critical.

Secure document sharing has likewise become standard practice. Investors expect confidential information to be “encrypted and copy protected”, allowing them to maintain control throughout the due diligence process. Although this level of security was once optional, it now represents minimum expectations for professional fundraising.

Cultural and strategic alignment

Above all else, investors are seeking startups with well-defined visions and international ambitions. “For Dutch companies looking to scale, developing an international go-to-market strategy is essential”. In practical terms, this means clearly outlining target customers, market segments, and precisely how you’ll reach them.

Recent shifts in Dutch investment patterns confirm these changing expectations. European investors now account for half of all funding, with domestic investments declining from 61% to just 15%. Consequently, Dutch startups must simultaneously demonstrate clear market fit for global audiences while maintaining strong connections to local innovation ecosystems.

How founders can prepare for 2025 and beyond

Preparing effectively for fundraising can dramatically increase a Dutch startup’s chances of securing investment in 2025. With the right approach to data organization and investor relations, founders can turn the fundraising process from a challenge into a strategic advantage.

Choosing the right VDR platform

Selecting an appropriate virtual data room requires evaluating several critical features. First, prioritize security capabilities including encryption, access controls, and watermarking to protect sensitive information. DocSend, a popular choice among Dutch startups, offers secure file sharing with password protection and time-limited access for extra security.

Second, consider essential functionality like eSignatures, which simplify the signing process and make funding more efficient. Document analytics capabilities are equally important, as they track file views, engagement metrics, and time spent on each page—providing invaluable insights into investor interests.

Finally, look for scalable options with flexible pricing that can grow with your startup’s progress. Most importantly, choose an intuitive interface that team members across technical skill levels can navigate comfortably.

Organizing your data room for due diligence

Structure your data room with meticulous attention to clarity and accessibility. Create logical categories with clear folders for financials, legal documents, market analysis, and team information. Use consistent file naming conventions and include dates in filenames for version control.

In essence, focus on quality rather than quantity. Begin with essential documents that showcase your execution capabilities rather than just ideas. Include proof of revenue growth, product-market fit validation, and industry benchmarks that demonstrate how your startup compares to competitors.

Financial transparency is paramount—clearly define your burn rate and runway so investors understand how long your capital will last, and show realistic paths to profitability.

Tracking investor behavior and following up

VDR analytics provide unprecedented visibility into investor engagement. Track which documents investors view most frequently and for how long. These insights help identify what sparks their interest, offering valuable clues on where to steer follow-up conversations.

With this information, customize your approach to each potential investor based on their document engagement patterns. Indeed, this data-driven method allows you to prioritize investors showing genuine interest in critical documents rather than blindly following up with everyone.

Remember that in 2025, investors back execution, not just ideas. Stay investor-ready by structuring your conversations, data room, and follow-ups to be investor-friendly.

The path forward for Dutch startups in 2025

The dramatic shift in the Dutch startup ecosystem undoubtedly marks a turning point for entrepreneurs seeking investment. Virtual data rooms have emerged as essential tools rather than optional additions, transforming how startups present themselves to potential investors. These secure platforms now serve as bridges connecting Dutch innovation with global capital, effectively addressing the historical challenges of limited visibility and restricted access to Series A funding.

Success stories from companies like Dealroom demonstrate how strategic data organization can elevate fundraising efforts from simply sharing documents to showcasing company potential. Their approach highlights a fundamental truth: investors back execution, not just ideas. This reality shapes the current investment landscape where professionalism, data transparency, and secure document sharing represent the bare minimum expectations.

Dutch founders must therefore approach fundraising as a strategic process. Choosing the right VDR platform, organizing data effectively, and tracking investor behavior can significantly impact funding outcomes. Companies that embrace these practices position themselves advantageously in an increasingly competitive ecosystem.

Although Dutch startups previously struggled with funding gaps and limited networks, the landscape has fundamentally changed. Through thoughtful implementation of virtual data rooms and data-driven investor relations, Dutch entrepreneurs now stand poised to compete effectively on the global stage. The companies that will thrive going forward are those that recognize fundraising not as a necessary evil but as a strategic opportunity to showcase their vision, execution capability, and growth potential.