Amsterdam takes the lead in the 2023 Chamber of Commerce Innovation Top 100

Demonstrating national influence in innovation 

Each year the Chamber of Commerce Innovation Top 100 program showcases small and mid-size businesses. This year, the Dutch province of North Holland rises to the top, showcasing 22 companies, the majority based in Amsterdam, with agri-food businesses leading with 17 contributions. 

With over 300 entrants, experts made their selection based on its impact on the industry and society, originality, availability, realised turnover, and growth potential. There was a surge in agri-food centred businesses such as De Nieuwe Keuken who produce ‘Lekker Fred’s Pulled Paddo’s’, a plant based alternative made of oyster mushrooms and locally produced in North Holland.

Joining De Nieuwe Keuken is Mayoneur, which produces vegan, halal and environmentally friendly mayonnaise that comes in a variety of flavours. These two food-focused startups join other established businesses like Wilicroft and Seamore demonstrating that Amsterdam truly is the place to be for flavour driven businesses. 

Amsterdam's impact-driven business ecosystem

These companies not only offer budget-friendly and delicious products but also actively address issues such as climate change head on. Studies have shown that that vegan diets result in 75% fewer emissions, reduced water pollution, and land use when compared to diets with over 100g of meat daily. Consequently companies like De Nieuwe Keuken and Mayoneur are introducing products that align with the demands of our constantly evolving global society.

It’s not only the agri-food startups that are thriving in Amsterdam — sustainability is the focus of each of the businesses included in this year’s Innovation Top 100. Eevery, a platform for small and medium enterprises, promotes eco-friendly practices, benefiting other local businesses in their climate goals. Meanwhile, Smyle, a B2C venture, urges consumers to embrace plastic-free toothpaste tablets made from natural ingredients. Regardless of business model, these Amsterdam based startups have ecological stability at their core.

Final ranking to be revealed in November

Although there is no monetary prize attached to this recognition — being recognised in the top 100 is beneficial for businesses in terms of networking opportunities, recognition and visibility and international exposure. The Innovation Top 100 rankings will be unveiled on November 23rd, with a panel led by Ruud Koornstra determining the outcome.