What’s Next in the Dutch Startup Scene: Signals to Watch
From healthtech megaconferences to hyperlocal pitch nights, the Dutch startup ecosystem is buzzing with activity this June. Whether you're an early-stage founder scouting accelerator deadlines, a VC seeking fresh talent, or an ecosystem builder tracking emerging signals — here’s your curated snapshot of what’s happening across the Netherlands (and beyond) in the next two weeks.
We filtered the noise and surfaced the signals that matter.
HLTH Europe 2025
🗓 June 16–19 | 📍 Amsterdam (RAI Convention Centre) | 🧭 In-person
The Netherlands is playing host to Europe’s largest health innovation event this week. With over 5,000 attendees — including 1/3 C-suite execs — HLTH Europe brings together healthtech startups, investors, corporates, and policymakers under one roof. From future-of-care panels to live product demos, the event offers unmatched visibility for founders working on digital health, biotech, and AI solutions.
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EIC Pre‑Accelerator Call
🗓 Opened June 12 | 📍 Online (EU-wide) | 🧭 Virtual
The European Innovation Council is back with its Pre-Accelerator call — offering early-stage deeptech teams up to €70k in funding, plus tailored coaching. It’s part of the Horizon Europe framework and acts as a stepping stone to the prestigious EIC Accelerator. For Dutch startups with pan-European ambitions, this is a key opportunity.
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Founder Institute Netherlands – App Deadline
🗓 Early Deadline August 17 | 📍 Virtual First
Founder Institute’s upcoming cohort is now accepting applications. As a globally recognized pre-seed accelerator, it offers founders a structured program to refine their idea, find co-founders, and get investor-ready. A great fit for aspiring entrepreneurs with domain expertise but limited startup experience.
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EIT Culture & Creativity Acceleration
🗓 July cohort forming now | 📍 Europe-wide | 🧭 Hybrid
The EIT C&C KIC is accepting applications for its “Shape” and “Scale” cohorts. These programs support startups and scale-ups in the cultural and creative industries — think immersive tech, digital arts, fashion innovation, or sustainable design. It’s one of the few accelerators tailored for CCI founders, offering funding, business development, and visibility across Europe.
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StartLife Accelerate (AgriFoodTech)
🗓 Applications accepted until December 2025 | 📍 Wageningen / Hybrid | 🧭 Early prep phase
Based out of Wageningen University, StartLife’s flagship acceleration program focuses on agri-food startups tackling global food system challenges. While the next cohort begins in spring 2026, founders are encouraged to apply early. The program includes equity-free support, access to corporates like Unilever and Rabobank, and a direct connection to one of Europe’s leading foodtech ecosystems.
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Stay tuned — NextWave.zone will continue to spotlight the real signals from the edge of Europe’s startup landscape. Know something happening on the ground in your city? Submit a tip — let’s map the future together.
🌐 No hype, just signal.
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This article was created using AI-assisted tools and curated by the NextWave.zone editorial team to ensure clarity and relevance.