The Groninger Growth Fund, which was established in 2016 to strengthen the economy in the earthquake area, is expanding its operating area to the entire province of Groningen by 2025. This will allow entrepreneurs from all Groningen municipalities to access the venture capital for growth and innovation, with a focus on strengthening the Ommeland.
The Groningen Growth Fund is the fund of Economic Board Groningen and the province of Groningen. Delegate Henk Emmens: "The expansion is part of the ambition to further strengthen the economic structure of the province. Through this expansion, the Groningen Growth Fund also ties in with the Nij Begun Economic Agenda and the provincial Economic Agenda, as these also concern the entire province. As a result, we expect to continue to play an important role in strengthening the regional economy and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs."
Akke Groenewoud, Economic Board Groningen director, concurs: "It is important for SMEs in Groningen to have access to funding to invest in their business. By expanding the area of the Groningen Growth Fund, we are investing in the economy of the entire province of Groningen. As a result, we can do even more for Groningen's SMEs, the investment opportunities for SMEs increase, and thus we strengthen the business climate in the province."
Impact in the Ommeland
Rob Drees, director of the Groningen Growth Fund said, "By expanding our geographic reach, we can encourage entrepreneurs in all corners of the province, with a special focus on the Ommeland. This strengthening benefits both the province and the original earthquake area." As of now, the operating area of the Groninger Growth Fund covers the entire province.
Groninger Growth Fund dares more
The Groninger Growth Fund offers venture capital to entrepreneurs. For start-ups and existing entrepreneurs who are already established here or want to do so. If there is a good business plan and it contributes to economic growth and future earning power, entrepreneurs are welcome. Rob: "Where others see risks, we see opportunities. Do other financiers not dare to lend or not enough money? Because we take the greatest risk and thus give confidence, other lenders also dare to step in. This is how we help make plans come true."
Are you a Groningen entrepreneur and want to know if the Groningen Growth Fund can help you get funding? Then check out the website and get in touch.