On the initiative of the GCNE platform, five regional development companies in the south and north of the Netherlands have spent the past year researching financing opportunities for young, disruptive entrepreneurs. In the process, it became clear that there is too little funding available for the “”greenification”” of chemistry. While start-ups can apply for various funds and arrangements, there is insufficient support for the lengthy scale-up processes required in the chemical industry for production at sufficiently high volumes. These include investments of up to €50 million.
Private investors are reluctant, partly because national and European regulations are still in flux. Moreover, oil and gas are still too inexpensive alternatives for the time being. All this justifies government support, according to GCNE.
Financing the Transition took place in Geleen on 29 and 30 November. It was organised by Chemelot Circular Hub and supported by Green Chemistry, New Economy. The conference is important for realising the Industry Transition to sustainable green manufacturing chemistry in the Netherlands.
For more information, visit the websites of GCNE (Dutch language) and Chemelot Circular Hub.
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