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During the FD Gazellen Awards, hundreds of entrepreneurs come together with one shared goal: growth. But the FD Gazellen represent far more than an award for the fastest‑growing companies. They form a network of passionate entrepreneurs who regularly connect and support one another. For 2026, FD Mediagroep is still looking for sponsors who want to align themselves with this ambitious community—a unique opportunity to gain visibility within a strong and growing group of entrepreneurs.
Perry Feenstra, Editor‑in‑Chief of Het Financieele Dagblad, explains why the FD Gazellen hold such a special place in his heart.
What makes the FD Gazellen so special to you?
“We celebrate entrepreneurship in the Netherlands. Several times a year, we shine a spotlight on the successes of the remarkable Dutch business community. Winning an FD Gazelle is simply a wonderful moment for companies. You can see the excitement during the festival and on social media—teams, managers, and leaders proudly celebrating what they’ve achieved together. Throughout the year, newspapers like the FD often focus on the largest companies, but the FD Gazellen give successful businesses the opportunity to step into the spotlight.”
If you had to capture the FD Gazellen in three words, which would they be and why?
“Strength, success, and champagne.”
There is so much remarkable work being done in the Netherlands.
What has stayed with you the most over the years?
“In recent years, I’ve stayed in touch with a few companies simply because they regularly reached out in such a pleasant way—and then you develop a connection. Inge’s sewing machine shop really stood out: the enormous enthusiasm of these hardworking, successful entrepreneurs who turned their hobby into a business—that is fantastic.”
How would you describe the entrepreneurs in the room?
“There is so much remarkable work being done in the Netherlands, and you hear nothing about 95% of it. Everyone works hard, and impressive companies are growing everywhere. During the FD Gazellen, you suddenly see all of them come together in one room: incredibly hardworking teams who believe in what they do and who are succeeding because of it.”
Why should a company sponsor the FD Gazellen?
“That’s not for me to decide as Editor‑in‑Chief. Journalism must remain clearly separated from financial interests. But in my view, anyone who is active in the Dutch entrepreneurial landscape should want to embrace and experience this celebration.”
