Interview with Mr. Pieter van Gulik of the Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency NFIA

Interview Pieter van Gulik
Executive Director Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency United Kingdom & Ireland

Why should IT companies look at the Netherlands?
Years of investment in high-speed internet, cable and digital communication systems, together with rapid adoption of state-of-the-art computer and mobile phone technology has made the Netherlands one of the most "wired" countries in the world; a dynamic force in electronic commerce, communications and outsourcing.
Many successful international enterprises have already made their home in the Netherlands, making it a magnet for hardware and software support companies. For those seeking to use new technology to expand, streamline or improve their competitiveness, it offers unique opportunities.
And don't forget the country's attractive tax climate, skilled and multilingual workforce, excellent connections by road, air or rail, and many internet-ready business accommodations, which make the Netherlands a highly attractive solution for those seeking a key European base.

Is it easy for IT companies to recruit competent staff?

The Dutch government and interested private parties are working together to ensure education delivers a high proportion of IT-qualified students to become the IT specialists of tomorrow. The top three technology universities in Delft, Eindhoven and Enschede, together with 10 other renowned universities and over 20 technical colleges ensure a constant supply of well-trained and talented people. Outside the university system, many young people are enrolled in higher vocational education, learning subjects such as IT, mechanics and electronics.

Why do you want IT companies to come to the Netherlands?

Foreign companies already make a vital contribution to the Dutch economy. One in ten employees in the Dutch market works at a foreign company. Foreign companies, and especially those from the IT sector, generate economic growth, are good for highly qualified employment, reinforce the strength of Dutch innovation and connects our country to international business networks.

Can the Netherlands become a second Silicon Valley?

The Netherlands has all the ingredients to be one; the well-known American economist Richard Florida, in his book “The Rise of the Creative Class”, points out creativity has become the driving force of economic growth. In fact, Richard Florida identified The Netherlands as one of the European countries with most distinctive assets for the Creative Class.
According to him, the ability to compete and prosper in the global economy goes beyond trade in goods and services and flows of capital and investment. Instead, it increasingly turns on the ability of nations to attract, retain and develop creative people. As an example he mentions San Francisco with traditionally a high degree of tolerance and liberalism. The Dutch society has always been an open and tolerant society, accepting of the views of others and respecting a person's choice of life style; an ideal living environment for creative people and like Silicon Valley a hospitable location for innovative IT companies.

What can the NFIA do for IT companies that have an interest in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency is a government agency that provides assistance to companies interested in setting-up, expanding or reorganising their pan-European operations in the Netherlands. Our services are rendered free of charge, without obligation and on a confidential basis. Based on a company's project description, we can further provide detailed, tailor-made information and assistance, including arranging introductions with relevant parties in the Netherlands.