Pre-seed funding is the first crucial step that turns an idea into a startup reality

Apply for StartLife Pre-Seed Fund

Let’s get in touch! We are always excited to connect with the next generation AgriFoodTech startups aiming to transform our global food systems. We review applications on a rolling basis.

Apply for StartLife Pre-Seed Fund

Let’s get in touch! We are always excited to connect with the next generation AgriFoodTech startups aiming to transform our global food systems. We review applications on a rolling basis.

Founder-friendly pre-seed funding

Are you in need of a financial impulse to boost your impact-driven agrifoodtech startup? We’ve got your back!

In collaboration with the province of Gelderland and development agency Oost NL, StartLife offers early stage FoodTech & AgriTech startups in the Netherlands founder-friendly subordinated loans.

Via our joined pre-seed fund, officially called Startup Fund Gelderland, we provide pre-seed loans of €100.000.

Check the details below and apply for our pre-seed funding via the form below!

Pre-seed Funding Offer

  • Subordinated loan: €100.000
  • Interest rate: 3%
  • Loan duration: 6 years
  • Grace period loan & interest: 24 months
  • Payback scheme: 48 months
  • Co-financing: No co-financiering or matching required
  • Surety: no personal surety required

Criteria: who can apply?

You can apply if you meet the following 5 criteria:

  1. Your startup has a Dutch entity
  2. Your startup is younger than 5 years
  3. Your proposition is based on innovative technology that is protectable and scalable
  4. Your technology aids the development of a sustainable agrifood system
  5. Your startup is based in, has strong ties or impact within, the province of Gelderland. Think of strategic partnerships with Wageningen University & Research, suppliers, clients or otherwise.

It's Smart Money!

Our pre-seed loan comes with (a minimum of) 100 days of support by StartLife, which includes access to our global agrifood network.

Our funding not only gives you financial means, but also provides you the opportunity to access knowledge and experience of world-renowned corporates and investors from the agriculture and food industry, as well as researchers and talents at Wageningen University & Research. StartLife is happy to help you connect.

Application process

Interested? Here are the three steps to take.

  1. Contact us via the form below
  2. Quick assessment: we’ll set up a call or meeting to discuss your funding needs, to check if you indeed fit all criteria, and answer any question you may still have
  3. Review board: your application is put forward to an independent review board that will assess your application and pitch and ultimately determine whether the loan can be granted.

Is the fund granted? Keep an eye-out on your back account!

A selection of startups that received StartLife funding

Apply for StartLife Pre-Seed Fund

    Startup company info


    AgriTechFoodTech







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