How a European network helps businesses in the Northern Netherlands move forward

What is the Enterprise Europe Network?

The Enterprise Europe Network is an initiative of the European Commission, established in 2008 to stimulate cooperation within and beyond the European internal market. The network now comprises more than 500 organisations in over 50 countries. Its focus is on SMEs, with the aim of supporting companies in international growth and innovation.

The activities within EEN consist roughly of two pillars:

Advice and information provision for companies with international ambitions.
Facilitating international cooperation, including through matchmaking, company profiles, and joint innovation projects.

New Energy Coalition is connected to the Dutch consortium through EEN, which also includes the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and regional development agencies. "We focus specifically on energy," says Jannes, "but the network is much broader and encompasses all economic sectors."

Collaboration between Enterprise Europe Network and New Energy Coalition

According to Jannes, the strength of the collaboration lies in the cross-pollination between the activities of New Energy Coalition and the objectives of the Enterprise Europe Network. "We connect EEN as much as possible with what we already do," he explains. "For example, at our annual events like Wind Meets Gas, where matchmaking sessions have been a regular feature since 2022."

During these sessions, companies, government agencies, and knowledge institutions meet through a structured system of short conversations, often organised using an online tool. "It's a bit like speed dating," laughs Jannes. "You speak with targeted people who are interesting to your company. That makes networking more efficient and more fun."

Matchmaking in action

Last year, the matchmaking event at Wind Meets Gas attracted more than 80 conversations. "A great step, but I want to reach 150 next year," says Jannes ambitiously. "These conversations generate energy in the room, both literally and figuratively. They foster connections, ideas, and even new collaborations."

According to him, matchmaking is valuable not only for newcomers to the network, but also for experienced players. "It helps established companies look beyond their usual circle. Sometimes, there's a party in your own region or abroad with a solution you'd never thought of."

Successful international connections

The Enterprise Europe Network also plays an important role in finding partners for European research and innovation projects. For example, the network previously helped match a Berlin-based technology company with the REFORMERS project in Alkmaar, and when expanding the SMILE project with Scottish and Portuguese partners. "Without EEN, we probably wouldn't have found those parties," says Jannes. "The network makes it easier to connect the right partners."

Why companies should participate

Many companies in the Northern Netherlands aren't yet familiar with EEN, Jannes notes. "And that's a shame, because it offers enormous opportunities. We're primarily looking for companies that are further along in their development and ready to grow internationally. Europe isn't far away; the opportunities are often closer than you think."

His advice to entrepreneurs is clear: don't be too hesitant. "If you sign up for a matchmaking session, be proactive. You decide who you speak with, and it takes relatively little time. Sometimes a single conversation leads to a collaboration you hadn't anticipated. And doing nothing will certainly yield nothing."

"Moreover, the Enterprise Europe Network is much more than just matchmaking," Jannes emphasises. "It's a way to explore international opportunities and forge new partnerships in business, innovation, and research. Participating companies gain access to a vast European network of knowledge and contacts, which helps them not only grow but also innovate."

Crossing borders together

Whether it's knowledge sharing, innovation, or business development, international cooperation is crucial in the energy transition. "The challenges we face don't stop at our borders," concludes Jannes. "That's why we must collaborate across borders. That's the only way we can truly move forward."