Dutch Startup Ecosystem Grows 26% Yet Slips to 6th in Europe

Surreal neon-colored Dutch landscape with windmills.

Dutch Startup Ecosystem's Growth: A Mixed Bag

The Dutch startup ecosystem has demonstrated remarkable resilience, recording a noteworthy growth of 26% over the past year. However, it faces challenges as it has now slipped to 10th place globally and 6th in Europe, according to the newly released Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025. While the performance of the ecosystem is commendable, particularly within sectors like ecommerce and retail, which ranks fifth globally and first in the EU, the overall gains are being overshadowed by faster growth rates in competing European nations.

International Landscape: Who's Leading?

In the latest index, the United States claimed the top global position, followed closely by the UK. France, Sweden, and Switzerland have outpaced the Netherlands in growth, all surpassing a 30% increase this year. This rapid advancement from these countries has left the Netherlands at risk of falling further behind in the European tech scene, a trend that could hinder its aspirations of remaining a strong startup nation.

Amsterdam's Position as a Startup Hub

A bright spot for the Dutch ecosystem is Amsterdam, which remains a pivotal player in the tech landscape. The city has risen two spots to 26th globally, holding its ground as the fifth-largest ecosystem in Europe. Its performance in fintech—now ranked 15th globally and 3rd in the EU—underlines its significance, bolstered by successful startups like neobank Bunq and payments platform Mollie. Amsterdam's growth trajectory is critical, as it is seen as a benchmark for other cities in the Netherlands.

The Rise of Rotterdam

Rotterdam is emerging as a notable player, showing promise by surpassing Utrecht and achieving the highest growth rate in the country at over 50%. The city has climbed significantly in the global rankings, indicating a robust and evolving ecosystem. Meanwhile, Eindhoven's climb to the 10th position globally for sustainability signals a focus on eco-friendly tech solutions, further diversifying the Dutch ecosystem’s strength.

Conclusion: Opportunities Ahead for the Dutch Startup Ecosystem

In summary, the Dutch startup ecosystem is at a crossroads. While observing significant growth, it must strategize effectively to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global tech landscape. As the Netherlands strives to secure its place among the top ten, continued support for burgeoning sectors, particularly in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, will be vital. The path forward will require innovation, collaboration, and a keen eye on the international competition.

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