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March 4, 2026

Funding the unfundable: Insights from Invest-NL at Upstream Festival

The quest for funding can often feel daunting for entrepreneurs, especially those working with innovative ideas that address significant societal problems.

At Upstream Festival, Jellie Banga, Executive Board Member of Invest-NL, shared invaluable insights on how to effectively navigate the funding landscape, emphasizing the importance of scalable business models and strategic partnerships.

Understanding the Role of Invest-NL

Invest-NL serves as a vital player in the Dutch economy, focusing on supporting ventures that show promise in innovation and sustainability. Jellie highlighted several key themes defining their investment strategy:

  • Sustainable energy transition
  • Circular economy initiatives
  • Food and agriculture systems
  • Life sciences and health innovation
  • Deep tech advancements

Challenges in Funding

During the discussion, Jellie acknowledged a prevalent issue in the funding market often referred to as the "valley of death." This term describes the gap where startups struggle to secure sufficient funding between initial capital and larger investments. Jellie explained:

"If the market could solve it, then we are not your first part to speak with."

This statement underscores the necessity for startups to demonstrate a clear market potential and scalability in their business models to attract investment.

Steps to Securing Funding

Jellie provided several actionable steps for entrepreneurs seeking funding:

  • Be candid and honest about your venture's potential and challenges.
  • Engage early with potential investors to understand their expectations.
  • Focus on building a robust business model that demonstrates scalability.
  • Leverage networks and partnerships to enhance the credibility of your venture.

The Importance of Collaboration

A significant theme throughout the discussion was collaboration. Jellie emphasized that funding is not just about securing capital; it is also about building a supportive ecosystem around a venture. She stated:

"We can be a part of that. We cannot be the only part."

This highlights the necessity for startups to engage with a range of stakeholders, including regional development agencies, co-investors, and other funding bodies.

Looking Ahead

The conversation at Upstream Festival illuminated the evolving nature of funding in the Dutch economy. As Jellie noted, there is a growing recognition of the need for long-term investment strategies that align with the broader goals of sustainability and innovation. By focusing on building trust and transparency, both entrepreneurs and investors can create more effective partnerships that drive real change.

In conclusion, the insights shared by Jellie Banga at Upstream Festival serve as a guiding framework for entrepreneurs navigating the complex funding landscape. By understanding the importance of scalability, collaboration, and strategic engagement, startups can position themselves to secure the necessary capital to thrive in competitive markets.

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