NBSO Stuttgart

The Netherlands Business Support Offices (NBSOs) comprise a network of more than 20 offices in 10 countries, set up to support Dutch businesses in their international activities. The NBSOs are particularly effective in supporting small and medium-size enterprises (SMEs) and are dedicated to the promotion of Dutch trade and investment. NBSOs operate under the direction of the RVO, department of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs. The activities of an NBSO are as follows: 1) Responding to trade requests The NBSOs provide Dutch companies with specific and detailed local information about market opportunities and developments in their assigned country or region. 2) Market Scan This service involves a scan of the potential foreign market for a particular Dutch business. It assesses the feasibility of commercial activities of products/services in foreign markets and whether or not specific regulations exist for such activities. Additionally, it provides an overview of trade shows, trade magazines and websites relevant to the particular sector. Subsequently, assistance is provided for the identification and establishment of initial trade contacts. 3) Economic missions NBSOs support Dutch organizations in the planning of collective trade activities such as market orientation trips, incoming trade delegations (whether or not with a separate matchmaking programme) and collective trade show participation. 4) Trade Promotion Dutch products and services are highlighted to potential foreign trade partners. Furthermore, NBSOs participate selectively in seminars and other activities to promote Dutch business. 5) Identification of market opportunities NBSOs investigate possible opportunities for Dutch business in foreign markets and subsequently communicate these via short articles and publications.