Working Student Business Development - Agrifood & Biotechnology

Invest-NL is the national financing and development institution of the Netherlands. We support entrepreneurs and projects that contribute to major societal transitions, such as the energy transition, the circular economy, and deep tech.

In addition to investing in innovative companies and projects, we work on removing bottlenecks that hinder investment and scaling up. We do this through research, developing financing solutions, and connecting companies, investors, and governments.

You will support three projects aimed at accelerating the scaling up of innovative biotech companies:

• Shared scaling facilities: improving access to pilot and production facilities, including by researching existing capacity and possible exploitation and financing models;

• Factory financing: exploring public and private financing solutions for first-of-a-kind commercial production facilities;

• Demand creation: researching how off-take agreements and collaboration with large companies can contribute to reducing investment risks.

In addition, you will support other initiatives within the Agrifood team, including the innovation agenda of the Ministry of LVVN.

As a working student, you will work closely with colleagues from Invest-NL and external project partners. Your activities will include, among others:

• Collecting and analyzing market information, investment needs, and financing opportunities;

• Conducting desk research into existing initiatives, business cases, and financing models;

• Preparing and elaborating on conversations with companies, investors, and other stakeholders;

• Drafting presentations, notes, and project proposals;

• Supporting the organization of meetings, project planning, and documentation.

The Netherlands has a strong position in agrifood and biotechnology. Yet, innovative companies regularly encounter obstacles during the step from the laboratory to commercial production.

In our recent Agrifood Biotech Deep Dive, we investigated what is needed to bring innovations in the field of biotech ingredients and food applications to market faster. Based on this, we are working on concrete projects to address the main bottlenecks. For the Agrifood Business Development team, we are looking for a working student to support us in the further development and execution of these projects.

You are curious, analytical, and enjoy investigating complex issues and translating them into concrete solutions. Additionally:

• You are following a higher professional education (HBO) or university program, for example in economics, business administration, innovation management, or a technical field;

• You have an interest in innovation, entrepreneurship, and finance;

• You work independently, in a structured manner, and like to take initiative;

• You can communicate clearly, both orally and in writing;

• You are available from January 4 to June 30, 2027;

• You can work an average of 16 to 24 hours per week.

Specific knowledge of the agrifood or biotech sector is not required. What we find more important is that you are curious and quickly master new subjects.

• Substantively challenging work at the intersection of innovation, technology, and finance;

• Plenty of space to work on projects independently and take responsibility, with guidance from the team;

• Collaboration with experienced professionals, innovative companies, investors, and governments;

• A varied position in which analysis, strategy, and practice come together;

• Possibility to work hybrid;

• An allowance of €1,816.15 per month (based on 24 hours) and travel expenses allowance.

Then we would love to receive your application before November 24, 2026! Do you have questions? Please contact Michiel Strijland via michiel.strijland@invest-nl.nl. Our selection procedure consists of 2 selection rounds. You will receive a response to your application no later than 2 weeks after the closing date.