Entrepreneurs from the Hague region receive support with internationalisation

GMEP 2026 kick-off with all 23 participating local entrepreneurs and Programme Manager Elisa van Maanen-Gentzsch. 

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Global Market Entry Program (GMEP). The programme supports proven start-ups and scale-ups from the Rotterdam–The Hague Metropolitan Region that are ready for international growth. During a nine-month programme, participants learn how to strategically prepare and execute their entry into international markets. They also gain access to an extensive network of both local and international partners. In 2026, the GMEP focuses on market entry in France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

Nine-month bootcamp

The programme consists of workshops, coaching sessions and guidance from experienced internationalisation experts. Entrepreneurs also receive personal support from country specialists, who help them connect with potential customers in their target markets. Participants can deepen the knowledge they gain through a tailored workbook containing practical assignments.

The GMEP is funded by the Municipality of The Hague and the Rotterdam–The Hague Metropolitan Region (MRDH), and facilitated by InnovationQuarter and The Hague & Partners.

Programme Manager Elisa van Maanen-Gentzsch: “The strength of the programme lies in the combination of practical guidance, a strong international network and direct access to experts who truly help entrepreneurs move forward. As a result, participants are able to take meaningful steps towards new markets in a short period of time. Over the past five years, a variety of entrepreneurs have taken part in the programme, including The Hague-based companies NAÏF, Seepje, Hop & Stork and Buro Brand. With the support of GMEP, they were able to accelerate their international strategies, from sharpening their market potential to establishing valuable connections in their target countries.”

Kick-off GMEP 2026

On Wednesday 25 February, the new GMEP 2026 cohort officially kicked off. A total of 23 local entrepreneurs will focus on expanding into France, Germany and the United Kingdom over the coming year. Among them is The Hague-based Scenexus, which develops smart software that helps cities and municipalities better plan how areas are developed and organised. Gefken Cases from The Hague is also participating; this family business has existed since 1959 and produces custom-made transport cases for clients across Europe. From Delft, Abel Sensors is joining the programme as well, a technology company developing innovative sensors for applications in cities, infrastructure and agriculture. The full list of entrepreneurs participating in this edition can be found at gmep.nl.