As we are halfway through 2025, we took some time to evaluate the market and create a new edition which really hits home! 

And while the Dutch startup scene remains resilient, funding dynamics have shifted significantly. If you're aiming to scale beyond the seed stage, now's the moment to adapt and act.

In Q1, overall investment cooled, with both capital and deal volume stagnating. However, there's a brighter side: Series A and B rounds are holding steady, signalling that UH wave of scale-up momentum is within reach if you're prepared.

Now’s the moment to pivot and scale, not tread water.

📊 What’s Happened So Far

• Record VC growth, but fewer deals Venture capital surged to €3.1 billion in 2024—a significant increase—yet deals dropped, signalling a sharper focus on fewer, larger investments.
• Q1 investment plateau With approximately €460 million raised, Q1 2025 matched Q4 levels, but remains substantially lower compared to last year, highlighting ongoing market caution.
• Series A/B funding is holding strong Larger rounds remain attractive, especially to international investors, even as mid-stage opportunities narrow.

🔑 What This Means for Your H2 Strategy

1. Prioritise scale-up readiness Growth-stage rounds are gaining momentum; it’s time to shift your strategy to target Series A/B with clear traction indicators.
2. Expand investor horizons Domestic investment is contracting, making EU and US investors more vital than ever—start building those relationships now.
3. Close the traction-validation loop Investors want to see consistent growth—focus on metrics like ARR, conversion rates, retention, and activated users.
4. Lean into niche sectors Capital is flowing into deeptech, AI, life sciences, and cleantech—if you operate here, highlight it.
5. Optimise runway via smart hiring With funding flat, channel capital wisely: use subscription-based hiring models and streamline your talent acquisition process.

🚀 Five Winning Tactics for H2

1. Craft a data-led narrative Your metrics should tell a cohesive story: traction, growth momentum, and a roadmap to scale.
2. Tailor your pitch to two audiences Design a version for domestic investors and a second for international capital—each with tailored value propositions.
3. Showcase early validation Even small pilot wins or niche traction can open doors to growth-stage conversations.
4. Highlight your specialisation If you’re in a high-growth sector, showcase your domain expertise confidently—sector credibility matters.
5. Extend your runway without slowing growth Use agile hiring models, minimise burn, and build momentum that’s both efficient and fast.

🤝 How OH Nederland Can Fuel Your H2 Success

We’re fired up to support founders during this pivotal half-year:

• Free H2 Funding Strategy Sessions Custom workshops to refine your pitch, optimise runway, and map out your Series A/B readiness.
• Investor Network Access We can introduce you to European and US investors actively backing scale-ups.
• Scale-Ready Hiring Support Subscription-based hiring, employer branding, and targeted talent acquisition—designed for efficient growth.

Feeling H2 pressure? Now’s your moment to pivot and scale with confidence.

👉 [Book Your Free H2 Strategy Call]

Here’s to resilience, smart scaling, and breakthrough growth in 2025 🚀

Thanks for reading!

Will Aldred

Start Up Growth Specialist! 

P.S. Want tailored feedback on your deck or traction metrics? Just reply—I’m here to help you win 2025!