The Office of Economic Security (OLEV): your advice desk for safe and resilient entrepreneurship
![](/fileadmin/_processed_/a/7/csm_cybersecurity_2354fb588b.jpg)
In a world where geopolitical relations are becoming increasingly complex, international eyes are focusing on the innovative strength of the Netherlands, particularly Brainport Eindhoven. This region, known for its pioneering key technologies, is attracting increasing interest from abroad. As a startup, you play a crucial role in these developments with your innovative product or service. In this dynamic landscape, it is essential not only to seize opportunities, but also to proceed with care and anticipation.
To get you started in that, we are pleased to introduce our new partner: Ondernemersloket Economische Veiligheid (OLEV), a counter of the Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO) on behalf of the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
OLEV, active since June 2023, was created to support entrepreneurs in navigating the challenges of economic security. As a central point of contact, OLEV offers expertise and advice to Dutch startups, scale-ups and SMEs operating in knowledge-intensive sectors and key technologies. We spoke with one of their advisors.
What does safe and resilient business mean?
“Safe and resilient business means taking advantage of opportunities as a company, but at the same time being vigilant of potential risks. It's about being aware of the dangers that can accompany activities such as procurement, international business, (digital) espionage, exports, investments, procurement and mergers. We help entrepreneurs identify and address these risks.”
What kind of risks should you think of? “That's very broad. For example, we advise on protection against corporate espionage. But also on topics such as safe international cooperation, and economic security in investments, mergers, and acquisitions, in tenders, and in setting up foreign branches.”
How do you handle recruitment and selection of staff?
Working with knowledge workers is unimaginable in our economy. What can OLEV offer in this regard? “That is indeed an important area of focus for us, but also for the broader society. First of all, the OLEV cannot and will not screen individuals. What we can do is think with business owners about the security element of their recruitment and selection process.”
What should you consider when hiring new staff? “What is important when hiring is that a critical position logically requires appropriate attention to the candidate's integrity. This sounds obvious, but this means that business owners must also have a good idea of their most valuable assets, technology, knowledge, processes and data that make their business unique and competitive - their crown jewels. Only when you know what you need to protect can you think about how best to protect it.”
Why is it best for a startup to contact you early?
“With us, the adage 'prevention is better than cure' is key. By getting in touch early, you can get ahead of potential problems. OLEV therefore encourages startups and scale-ups to discuss economic security at an early stage. During our discussions, we discuss potential risks and explore concrete courses of action.”
OLEV is part of RFO. Who does what?
“OLEV, as part of RFO, has a specific focus on the security aspect of business. In fact, OLEV acts as a bridge between entrepreneurs and relevant government agencies. We have direct lines to other ministries such as Foreign Affairs and Economic Affairs, so we can switch quickly, exchange information, and advise entrepreneurs efficiently - or refer them to the right agencies when necessary.”
Prevention is better than cure, a manual
“We want to offer startups as much practical support as possible. That's why we recently published the Guide to Economic Security, titled “Prevention is better than cure.” I recommend that you download the guide. It contains practical examples that you as an entrepreneur may recognize from your own practice. It helps you as an entrepreneur to recognize and address security risks.”
You can download the guide here. Prevention is better than cure (Dutch)
Economically more resilient in 4 steps
“We also recently published the Quick Guide Economically More Resilient in 4 Steps. That's a compact booklet that explains how to improve the security of your business in 4 steps.”
Download the booklet here: Economisch weerbaarder in 4 stappen
OLEV at The Gate
OLEV hosts monthly walk-in consultations at The Gate. “Are you an entrepreneur and active in knowledge-intensive sectors and/or key technologies, seeking personal advice and support on economic security? Do you have specific questions or want to spar with us about potential risks? The team at OLEV is ready to assist you. We look forward to seeing you at The Gate!”
Book an appointment hereWho can contact the OLEV Help Desk with what questions?
You'll find it in this overview.
You are a | You work with | You have a question on |
High-tech start-up, scale-up, SME | Semiconductor technologies | International cooperation and expansion of business |
| Nanotechnology | Incoming and outgoing business trips |
| Quantum technologies | Human resources policy |
| Life sciences & biotechnologies | Investments, mergers and takeovers (Wet Vifo) |
| Advanced materials | Export licenses and sanctions |
| Digital & information Technology | Dual-use |
| Photonics and optical technologies | Procurement and contracting |
| Chemical technologies | Cybersecurity |
| Vital infrastructure | (Economic) espionage |
|
| When in doubt contact us: veiligondernemen@rvo.nl |