On 7 October, AI startups, investors and ecosystem partners came together at Lab-44 in Zaandam for the AI Startup-Investor Matchmaking Event. The day was organised by TTT-AI, together with AIC4NL (Breaking Barriers), Digital Holland, LLM-BRIDGE, handelsroute.nl and the regional AI hubs.

The day started with a session on storytelling. Strong technology alone rarely convinces an investor, so founders also need a clear story about themselves and their product.

One-on-one matchmaking
The core of the day was 99 rounds of pre-arranged one-on-one meetings between startups and investors from 18 investment organisations. Meetings were matched in advance, so every conversation was relevant for both sides. Many startups already had follow-up meetings planned by the end of the day.

Networking and short talks
In the afternoon the room opened up for networking and short talks by founders selected by the AI hubs, Breaking Barriers, LLM-BRIDGE and TTT-AI.

Is Europe ready for its own AI industry?
The closing panel looked at the role of Europe. Talent, technology and ambition are there. What is needed is more European organisations willing to act as launch customers and buy from European AI companies.

What’s next
The conversations continue. TTT-AI hosts ChemAI, Deep Tech Builders on 12 November in Amsterdam, and Startup Roulette takes place on 21 January 2027 in Utrecht. See all events at ttt-ai.nl/events.

About TTT-AI: TTT-AI is the program that supports academic entrepreneurship and AI startups in the Netherlands.