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Since 2019, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has appointed so-called Startup Liaison Officers (SLOs) at six embassies and consulates. They are intended to primarily support the internationalisation of Dutch start-ups and scale-ups. In doing so, they also promote the Dutch start-up and scale-up ecosystem internationally, thus enhancing its international attractiveness (to companies, talent, financiers, etc.).
To provide a more detailed insight into the initial experiences with the SLO function, Dialogic has conducted an interim evaluation commissioned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This evaluation addresses three main questions: what value does the SLO function add, what are any potential bottlenecks, and how can that value potentially be increased?
Based on our analyses, the overall conclusion is that the specific focus on internationalisation of Dutch start-ups and scale-ups, with a view to the future earning capacity of the Netherlands, is justified. Compared to competing countries, efforts in terms of budget and manpower in the Netherlands are still modest. Although the SLOs are just getting started and facing challenges due to the COVID-19 crisis, they appear to play a useful role in the internationalisation of Dutch start-ups and scale-ups and in promoting the Dutch start-up and scale-up ecosystem internationally. The essence of the function - although implemented differently at different posts - is to inform and connect with key players in the local ecosystem. The target audience appreciates the services provided.
Our main recommendation is to continue the specific focus on key positions relevant to start-ups and scale-ups that are internationalising. We recommend completing the experiment with the six SLOs at least, and taking another 2-3 years to decide whether to institutionalise the SLO function or not.
Download the full report here.
