Health, Semiconductors, Fintech & Sportstech
During a recent working visit, NBSO Texas explored new opportunities for Dutch businesses in Dallas and Frisco, two cities that are quickly becoming key players in innovation, trade, and international partnerships. With strong activity in health tech, semiconductors, fintech, and sports tech, the region offers exciting potential for Dutch companies looking to grow in the U.S.
Health Innovation at Pegasus Park
The visit began in Dallas at Pegasus Park, a rapidly growing life sciences campus dedicated to supporting startups and scale-ups in the health and biotech sectors. NBSO Texas met with Lili Clark, Senior Associate at Lyda Hill Philanthropies, one of the co-owners of Pegasus Park, to gain insights into the ongoing development and growth of this innovative district.
In the same building, NBSO Texas visited Health Wildcatters, where CEO Dr. Hubert Zajicek and Jovelyn Castellanos, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Public Affairs, discussed how Dallas’s health tech ecosystem is increasingly attracting international entrepreneurs. Its strong emphasis on innovation, coupled with a robust support network, makes Dallas particularly appealing for Dutch companies in the life sciences and health sectors.
Strengthening Trade Relations
Later that day, Stef spoke at the European American Chamber of Commerce Texas event “Meet the Netherlands.” Business leaders, legal experts, and civic officials joined the conversation, showing strong interest in building Dutch–American partnerships. Many thanks to EACC Texas Director Erin McKelvey for organizing this well-attended event.
Semiconductors and Future Collaboration
The next day, NBSO Texas joined a roundtable at Southern Methodist University to talk about the Texoma Semiconductor Tech Hub. This regional initiative is working to strengthen the semiconductor supply chain across North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. With Dutch companies like ASML and NXP already playing major roles globally, the conversation focused on how new Dutch players can join and contribute to this fast-growing industry.
Executive Networking at the Petroleum Club
At the Dallas EDC Luncheon in the historic Petroleum Club, NBSO Texas and Consul General Lisette den Breems shared insights from the visit with a room full of local leaders, ranging from senators and ambassadors to business executives. Together, we emphasized the Netherlands’ long-term commitment to cooperation with Texas.
Fintech Gains Ground
Dallas is also gaining recognition as a rising fintech hub. With new stock exchange initiatives on the horizon, the city is attracting attention from startups, investors, and financial innovators. NBSO Texas is actively following these developments and exploring how Dutch fintech companies can get involved.
Sportstech Innovation in Frisco
The final part of the visit took place in Frisco, a city renowned for integrating sports and technology. Guided by Bob Heere, Professor & Director of MBA Sport Entertainment Management at the University of North Texas, and David Steele, Director of Plug and Play Sportstech, NBSO Texas toured the Plug and Play Sportstech Accelerator. This accelerator program connects startups with sports clubs, investors, and research partners, exploring cutting-edge topics such as smart stadiums, athlete performance, and esports. The tour highlighted the rapid growth in this sector and identified opportunities for Dutch innovation to contribute significantly.
The visit ended at the National Soccer Hall of Fame, a place where sports history and future ambitions come together. It was a fitting way to close a program focused on innovation, international partnerships, and shared values.
Conclusion
With so much happening in health, tech, finance, and sports, the greater Dallas region is an ideal place for Dutch businesses to explore new opportunities. NBSO Texas is here to help make those connections and support Dutch companies in taking the next step.
