Case 2: Market entry & investment

Dutch software company enters market & attracts 2mln investment

Organisation
Dutch software company specializing in software solutions and the production of drones.

Stage 1: Product Validation in an Operational Environment

The company sought to assess whether its drone technology could be effectively deployed on the battlefield in Ukraine. The objective was to 1) engage with relevant Ukrainian stakeholders, 2) conduct battlefield testing and 3) attracht investment.

DDC facilitated an online meeting with the Deputy Minister of Digital Transformation, which led to constructive discussions and the exchange of technical data. Following a positive initial assessment, DDC organized and supported a testing mission to Ukraine.

Operating from the Kyiv office, DDC maintained close coordination with a frontline battalion and ensured that relevant information was provided to the military units and feedback to the company was provided timely and properly.

Result:
Ukrainian authorities assessed the product positively and expressed strong interest in deploying the drones actively at the frontline.

Stage 2: Procurement and Contracting

Building on the successful trials, the company aimed to have the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence (MoD) submit a formal procurement request to the Dutch Ministry of Defence for the purchase of the drones.

DDC arranged meetings with key stakeholders within the Ukrainian MoD and supported the company throughout the administrative and procedural requirements necessary to advance the request.

Result:
A contract was secured for the production and delivery of a specified number of drones.

Stage 3: Financing and Scale-Up

Following the award of a multi-million-euro contract, the company required additional financing to support operational costs during the execution phase.

DDC introduced the company to several banks and private investors and facilitated discussions regarding financing options.

Result:
A loan was secured, covering one year of operational costs and enabling the further growth of the company.