North Holland SMEs Get Investment Boost Through ROM InWest-PIM Partnership
Haarlem, Tuesday 3 March 2026
ROM InWest and PIM are joining forces to offer North Holland SMEs up to six days of personalised support, potentially unlocking access to a slice of the €290 million already raised by PIM.
Structuring Capital for the Digital Age
The collaboration between the Regional Development Agency ROM InWest and the Programme for Investment-Ready Innovative SMEs (PIM) marks a significant step in professionalising the regional venture ecosystem. By providing innovative SMEs with up to six days of personalised support [1], the initiative directly addresses the complex requirements of modern fundraising. This structured guidance is particularly vital for the ‘Digitalisation’ and ‘Key Technologies’ sectors, which are explicitly targeted by the partnership [1][2]. For founders navigating the digital economy—where software scalability and intangible assets often complicate traditional valuation models—this support includes the creation of robust financial models and business plans [1]. According to Zuhal, a representative involved in the programme, this tailored advice is essential for matching entrepreneurs with relevant ecosystem partners in North Holland [1].
Funds Align with Digital Transformation
The strategic focus on the digital economy is underpinned by specific capital resources within ROM InWest. Edwin Hengstmengel, who has recently assumed the role of Head of Investing and Impact, confirmed that both the MKB-fonds, managed by Vincent Vierhout, and the Transitiefonds, managed by Isabel van Nesselrooij, possess the resources and knowledge to support entrepreneurs driving transitions in Digitalisation [2]. This alignment ensures that ventures operating in high-growth verticals, such as those modernising legacy industries through software, have access to knowledgeable capital. Working from Haarlem, a team of approximately 60 colleagues—including 20 in Hengstmengel’s immediate investment team—supports these efforts, combining financing with programmes designed to scale solutions for maximum impact [2].
A Proven Track Record of Capital Injection
The potential impact of this enhanced collaboration is best illustrated by PIM’s historical performance. Over the past eight and a half years, the programme has assisted 1,200 entrepreneurs [1]. In total, these ventures have successfully raised €290 million in capital [1]. This data indicates an average capital injection of approximately 241666.667 euros per participant, highlighting the programme’s efficacy in preparing businesses for significant funding rounds. By connecting this pipeline of investment-ready companies with ROM InWest’s broader network—including the COL portfolio managed by Ivo Kalthoff and the PDENH fund under Leendert van Waart [2]—the partnership aims to further unlock the region’s ecosystem [1]. Entrepreneurs seeking to leverage these resources for growth or financing can now access this integrated support system directly through PIM advisors [1].