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About the Going Dutch programme

Going Dutch is an early-stage export programme to help local companies develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to sell outside the Republic of Ireland (RoI) and Great Britain (GB).

The programme consists of group workshops, one-to-one mentor sessions and a group visit to the Netherlands to meet with pre-qualified potential Dutch partners.

Cost to participate in the programme is £1,200+VAT

The call for applications for Going Dutch is currently closed. 

How my can my business benefit from the Going Dutch programme?

Participants in the Going Dutch programme can benefit from:

  • Market research bespoke to their business
  • Support and mentoring from a specialist consultant
  • Assistance and support for a follow-up visit to the Netherlands

The Going Dutch programme has been a fantastic opportunity for us to explore the Netherlands market with valuable on-the-ground insight and tailored support. It’s helped us connect with potential partners, understand local trends, and open new doors for growth in Europe. A really well-structured and engaging programme that delivers genuine results.

Natasha McCloskey, Sales Manager - Wafer

The Going Dutch Programme gave us access to a market we wouldn't have entered by ourselves at this stage. We got six quality meetings booked with the right people, sorted all the logistics, and the prep work was spot on. We've got real opportunities coming out of it - trials set up, follow-up meetings booked, and potential with distributors that could open up the whole market. It was brilliant and I'd definitely recommend it.

Matthew Booth, CEO - Specifi.io

The Going Dutch programme proved invaluable for our business. With expert advice, market research, and direct customer connections, it opened the door to a new market we could never have entered successfully on our own.

Phillip Logan, Sales Manager - Relay Global, Zero Flame

Who is eligible for the Going Dutch programme?

The Going Dutch programme is only available to Invest Northern Ireland clients. If you would like more information on becoming a client, see How we support business.  

To be eligible, you must also meet the following criteria: 

  • Have fewer than 75 employees
  • Have a minimum turnover of £250k
  • Have sold successfully into the Republic of Ireland or Great Britain
  • Have a product or service that can be exported
  • Are financially stable to expand into new markets

How to apply

The call for applications is currently closed.  

Once the call opens again, you can check your eligibility on this page.  

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Workshops

Here is the schedule for the next cohort of Going Dutch:

Event 

Date 

Details 

Venue 

Workshop one 

Tuesday 31 March 2026 

This workshop will focus on the Dutch market, identifying the best route to market, including finding the right partners and planning the logistics and resources needed for successful exporting. 

Invest NI HQ, Belfast 

Workshop two 

Tuesday 9 June 2026 

This workshop will focus on getting ready to meet and introduce your company to potential buyers, choosing the right partner and building a strong relationship to grow your exports. 

Invest NI HQ, Belfast 

Market Visit 

Monday 15 – Wednesday 17 June 2026 

Three-day market visit to the Netherlands to meet with potential Dutch partners.  

Amsterdam 

 

Discover more

Find out more about the Going Dutch programme.

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