Dutch Operator Fund I, an Amsterdam-based investment fund, has officially launched, marking a significant milestone for the Dutch startup ecosystem. Aimed at supporting technology-driven startups in the pre-seed and seed stages, this fund has successfully raised €2 million, combining capital from the fund’s founders and a loan secured through the Seed Business Angel scheme of the Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO). Dutch Operator Fund I promises to fill a critical gap in early-stage funding, providing both financial and operational support to emerging startups.

Founding Team and Vision

The Dutch Operator Fund I was established by a group of seasoned entrepreneurs and angel investors, including Sjoerd van Berkel, Jeroen Bertrams, Quinten Selhorst, Geert-Jan Smits, Rutger Teunissen, and David Vermeulen. These founders bring a wealth of experience, having collectively founded and scaled 30 companies, achieved 13 exits, and accumulated 47 years of investing in startups. Their shared vision is to support Dutch startups by providing not just capital but also the entrepreneurial expertise and networks essential for scaling a business.

Investment Focus and Strategy

Dutch Operator Fund I differentiates itself by focusing on technology-driven startups that develop proprietary technology or software and demonstrate early commercial success. The fund targets startups with teams of two to four founders who are committed to working collaboratively and have a scalable business model. The key sectors of interest include technology, software, SaaS, and the circular economy.

Investments from Dutch Operator Fund I range from €75,000 to €200,000, with the potential for follow-up funding. This strategic approach addresses a critical need in the Dutch startup ecosystem, where many institutional investors are hesitant to invest in the early stages of startups.

Supporting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

The founders of Dutch Operator Fund I emphasize their commitment to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. Geert-Jan Smits highlighted the abundance of tech talent in the Netherlands and the necessity of early-stage investment to nurture this talent. By leveraging their extensive experience and networks, the fund’s founders aim to guide startups through the challenges of market introduction and growth, ensuring that they are well-positioned for long-term success.

Jeroen Bertrams noted that their collective experience as entrepreneurs provides a strong foundation for the fund, enabling them to accelerate the growth of startups by avoiding common pitfalls and implementing proven strategies. Sjoerd van Berkel expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to work with ambitious and dedicated founders, emphasizing the importance of combining their expertise and operational experience to help entrepreneurs realize their dreams.

Dutch Operator Fund I represents a new opportunity for tech-driven startups in the Netherlands, providing crucial early-stage funding and support that is often difficult to secure. With a solid foundation built on the founders’ extensive entrepreneurial and investment experience, the fund is poised to make a significant impact on the Dutch startup ecosystem. As Dutch Operator Fund I begins its journey, it stands ready to empower the next wave of innovative startups, driving growth and innovation in the technology sector.