Published on / 28.04.2025
Contact / Meemee Ploem
As International Trade Developer Maritime & Port at InnovationQuarter and Rotterdam Partners, Meemee Ploem helps Dutch maritime startups and SMEs gain a foothold in international markets. Fresh off a plane from a trade mission in Singapore, she reflects on her work by saying, “We’re constantly looking for new ways to turn international growth into reality and put Zuid-Holland on the map.”
Since August 2024, Meemee has been helping entrepreneurs expand internationally through InnovationQuarter and its partner organization, Rotterdam Partners. Her background in working with startups not only comes in very handy but also suits her well given the global nature of the maritime sector: “I truly enjoy connecting people across the world through relevant networks and trade missions.”
Fostering connections is more important than ever, as the sector undergoes major transformation. Companies face growing pressure to become more sustainable, embrace digitalization, and comply with stricter regulations. Alternative energy sources and cutting-edge technologies are no longer niche — they are reshaping the industry. Meemee sees how these changes are all interconnected and how she and her team are right at the center of the transition.
Charting a sustainable course
Global changes of this kind have worldwide impact, making close international cooperation more important than ever. To tackle these challenges, organizations need strong partnerships and active cross-border collaboration. And that’s exactly what drives Meemee’s work. In March 2025, for instance, she organized a trade mission to Singapore, leading a 27-person delegation of entrepreneurs, public officials, and industry stakeholders. The goal was to build meaningful connections and unlock new opportunities in Asia for Dutch innovators and scale-ups. A notable highlight of the visit was the renewal of collaboration between the ports of Rotterdam and Singapore.
“I love supporting entrepreneurs as they develop tangible, promising innovations.”
Meemee Ploem, International Trade Developer Maritime & Port at InnovationQuarter and Rotterdam Partners
The delegation also met with leading organizations such as the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the Singapore Shipping Association, PSA Singapore, and ING. And while digital tools certainly make international collaboration easier, Meemee believes that there is no substitute for being on the ground: “In our sector, one week on location achieves more than months of virtual meetings.” She adds, “We really put the Netherlands on the map. Even though we’re a small country, we showed what we can offer. That was our biggest win.”
“In our sector, one week on location achieves more than months of virtual meetings.”
Navigating rough seas
Despite the exciting opportunities, international growth isn’t always smooth sailing. Many smaller companies struggle with navigating complex regulatory systems, especially outside the EU. Access to funding can also be a significant challenge, particularly when compared to competitors in countries like Norway, where substantial public subsidies are the norm. “That makes it harder for Dutch firms to compete,” Meemee points out. Even highly innovative companies can find entering new markets daunting, underscoring the importance of expert guidance, local knowledge, and a strong support network to help level the playing field.
“We help Dutch companies explore the world, and we show the world why our region matters.”
The role of InnovationQuarter
That’s where InnovationQuarter comes in. It supports entrepreneurs with tailored advice, access to global networks, and funding opportunities. Working closely with local organizations like Rotterdam Partners — which focuses on supporting the city — InnovationQuarter covers the wider Zuid-Holland region. Through initiatives such as the Global Market Entry Program and Partners in Business, Meemee and her team help entrepreneurs identify promising markets and develop clear international strategies. “If you’re not quite ready to go abroad, we help you prepare. If you are, we help you connect directly with opportunities in your target markets.”
Many entrepreneurs — often young companies with big ambitions — try to achieve everything at once: new markets, rapid growth, immediate results. “We encourage them to slow down, focus their efforts, set clear priorities, and build their international strategy step by step,” says Meemee. From initial market validation to trade missions, InnovationQuarter adapts its approach to each company’s needs. “That’s what I love most about my work,” she adds. “Supporting entrepreneurs as they develop tangible, promising innovations and guiding them confidently toward their next milestone.”
Why internationalization matters for Zuid-Holland
Internationalization boosts more than just individual businesses; it strengthens Zuid-Holland’s position on the global stage. While Meemee supports Dutch companies going abroad, her colleagues attract international investors to the region. “It goes both ways,” she says. “We help Dutch companies explore the world, and we show the world why our region matters.” This dynamic creates a strong, connected ecosystem where international success translates into local impact. A company entering Rotterdam through one team may later go global with support from another. This approach drives innovation, creates jobs, and reinforces Zuid-Holland’s role as a leading European hub.
In good company
Meemee highlights several forward-thinking companies in InnovationQuarter’s maritime network. There’s AquaSmartXL, which develops remote-controlled aquatic inspection drones. Value Maritime, an InnovationQuarter portfolio company, is revolutionizing clean shipping with groundbreaking emission-reduction technologies. And Platform Zero accelerates the climate tech revolution by connecting startups and corporates for a net-zero future.
While the form of collaboration may differ, all three companies share a commitment to international growth and benefit from being part of an ecosystem that supports it — not just on paper but in practical, tangible ways.
“We don’t just offer knowledge; we connect companies to the right people, at the right time, in the right market.”
Meemee’s advice
Not sure where to begin? Meemee’s advice is simple: get in touch. Reaching out to InnovationQuarter at the start can make all the difference. Whether you are attending an event or have many questions, engaging early helps companies build a strong foundation. International collaboration is essential, especially in the maritime world, where many challenges cross borders. Meaningful progress requires working together. “But that doesn’t just happen overnight. So, my advice would be to be visible, join forces, and become part of our network.”
Want to discuss your international ambitions in the maritime sector? Feel free to contact me directly or fill out the contact form below.
For more information about how InnovationQuarter can boost your international growth – get in touch with us!