entrepreneurship Archives - Erasmus Enterprise

Tackling Rotterdam’s problems with entrepreneurship

Posted on December 19, 2024December 19, 2024 by Valeria

The municipality of Rotterdam and Erasmus University Rotterdam are committed to entrepreneurship. On 11 December, they signed a declaration of intent with which they stimulate entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. Both parties invest 150,000 euros per year in cash or in kind. What exactly is going to happen?

One of the goals of our university is to bring knowledge back into society through education and research. One way to do this is through entrepreneurship. New ideas and companies are founded at the university. Afterwards they help solve social problems.

Erasmus Enterprise: helping students become entrepreneurs

Our university stimulates entrepreneurship through Erasmus Enterprise. This is an entrepreneurial community that helps students to transform innovative start-up ideas into successful companies. Liesje Goldschmidt is one of the driving forces behind Erasmus Enterprise: ‘I want to take start-ups a step further. And let students discover their own entrepreneurial skills so that they can set up their own company.’

Free tutoring for all students

Rik Roosenstein (25) is one of those young entrepreneurs in Rotterdam. He gave tutoring during his studies at Erasmus University Rotterdam. ‘I noticed that I often visited families who actually could not afford the tutoring. I wanted to do something about that.’

Together with a fellow student, he founded Teachbuddy. How does it work? One student has difficulty with mathematics, another student understands everything about math. The app links students from the same school to each other and they meet at the school for tutoring. ‘In this way, we want to organise free tutoring for students in the Netherlands,’ says Rik.

Teachbuddy has been around for three years. Fifteen schools (five in Rotterdam) now use the app. ‘Students respond enthusiastically. You give them confidence. That pays off. We recently started at a school in Vught with 2,000 students. It is a Dalton school. There you have “free” hours during which students can work together. Those hours are now used for Teachbuddy. The teachers say that they get goose bumps watching the students work together there. You see that students pick it up quickly.’

The students who give tutoring lessons get a free hour, money or a free sandwich in the canteen. Every school approaches this differently.

"Erasmus Enterprise thinks with you and is always happy to help us. That gives us energy."

Rik Roosenstein

Teachbuddy

How does Erasmus Enterprise help with entrepreneurship?

Rik: ‘When we started our company, I didn’t know that the university had support for entrepreneurs. It wasn’t until a year later that we got involved with Erasmus Enterprise, and that really helped to get in touch with other entrepreneurs and contact other students who are also entrepreneurs. Erasmus Enterprise is a place where you can find a “community” as a student about everything related to entrepreneurship.’

Teachbuddy now even has an office on campus in the Erasmus Enterprise building: ‘For questions, we just walk to the Erasmus Enterprise office above us. They always think along with us and are happy to help us. That gives us energy. You also come into contact with investors through the community. I am very enthusiastic about Erasmus Enterprise.’

Solutions for today's problems

The municipality and university are now fully committed to innovation and entrepreneurship. Why? Goldschmidt: ‘We want Rotterdam to be a place where new companies emerge and stay. By investing in entrepreneurship from the university and the municipality, we are making the city future-proof. We encourage young entrepreneurs to come up with solutions for today’s problems. Think of equal opportunities, energy transition or the environment. As a university and municipality, we are committed to this. Young students with new ideas are really needed in this.’

What does that look like in practice?

Erasmus Enterprise organises activities with other partners to stimulate entrepreneurship. Through “Talent for Transition” students get the chance to learn about entrepreneurship in addition to their compulsory subjects.

‘We take students to BlueCity or RDM. There we bring together students from the university and college. They get to work on making business operations more sustainable, learn how to start your own business and brainstorm with entrepreneurs. The municipality is enthusiastic about this programme’, says Goldschmidt.

Erasmus University Challenge & NL Startup Competition

Erasmus Enterprise organises the Erasmus University Challenge & NL Startup Competition every year. Both are competitions in which young entrepreneurs learn to set up and further develop their business. At the University Challenge students can pitch their idea and the Startup Competition is for young entrepreneurs who already have their own business.

Goldschmidt: ‘Through this, these young entrepreneurs are given a platform. They learn how to pitch their idea, meet investors, and receive coaching from other entrepreneurs. The goal is to improve their start-up and to attract investments or to scale up. Ultimately, these programs ensure that the young companies can grow and really make an impact with their work. Often in areas that are important to the city.’

"It's great fun to help young entrepreneurs like Rik. That's what we want as a university and a city."

Liesje Goldschmidt

Erasmus Enterprise

What could be improved?

Of course, there are still things that could be improved in bringing students and entrepreneurship together. Rik has a number of tips for the university: ‘We only found out about Erasmus Enterprise a year after it started. Its awareness could be even better. I also see that as a task for the university.’

‘It is not always easy for a student to be an entrepreneur. I started Teachbuddy during my studies. During my master’s at Leiden University, I had to be present for some subjects. If I had a meeting at a school from Teachbuddy, I had to reschedule. There are often separate regulations for top athletes, but not for entrepreneurs. I do not know how this is arranged at Erasmus University. But these are small things that can stimulate entrepreneurship,’ says Rik.

Tackling Rotterdam's problems

Liesje Goldschmidt of Erasmus Enterprise is proud of entrepreneurs like Rik who are tackling inequality of opportunity in education with Teachbuddy. ‘These are the entrepreneurs who help solve problems. He has completed our program and his start-up is growing fast. It is great to help these kinds of young entrepreneurs. That is what we want as a university and city.’

On December 11, the municipality of Rotterdam and Erasmus University Rotterdam signed the declaration of intent to stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship. Annelien Bredenoord, our chair of the Executive Board, responded happily: 'It is a great moment to mark that we as a university are intensifying the collaboration with the municipality of Rotterdam to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation and social impact in our region. And in a Rotterdam way, so through concrete projects in the city that convert academic knowledge into practical solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises. I look forward to what our employees, students and alumni will add to the Rotterdam impact in the coming period.'

EUR en gemeente gaan samenwerken: 300.000 euro naar ondernemers en innovatie

Posted on December 16, 2024December 16, 2024 by 95001rbu@eur.nl

De Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam (EUR) en de gemeente Rotterdam ondertekenden woensdag een overeenkomst om de samenwerking het komende jaar op te schalen. Samen gaan ze flink investeren in ondernemerschap en innovatie in de stad.

Zowel de gemeente als de universiteit verbindt zich met de overeenkomst aan het investeren van 150.000 euro per jaar – in geld of in natura – in bestaande en nieuwe projecten om ondernemerschap, innovatie en maatschappelijk welzijn in Rotterdam te stimuleren.

In een arbeidersstad als Rotterdam zijn het opstarten van middelgrote en kleine bedrijven en het innoveren van bedrijfsvoering belangrijk. Binnen de Erasmus Universiteit is de organisatie Erasmus Enterprise (EE) verantwoordelijk voor verschillende programma’s om studenten en ondernemers bij elkaar te brengen.

Verschillende programma’s

Zo organiseert EE onder meer aankomend jaar een nationale wedstrijd, waarbij deelnemers een halve dag workshops krijgen in het opzetten van een bedrijf en een klein stimuleringsfonds kunnen winnen voor het beste idee voor Rotterdam.

Ook is er bijvoorbeeld Talent for Transition: een ander programma van EE, waarbij de focus ligt op het verduurzamen van bedrijfsvoering. Daarnaast zijn er meer maatschappelijke programma’s als SheLeads+, dat zich inzet op het aantrekken van vrouwelijke ondernemers.

Prof. dr. Annelien Bredenoord, bestuursvoorzitter van de EUR, ondertekende de overeenkomst. ,,Via concrete projecten in de stad zetten we academische kennis om in praktische oplossingen voor het midden- en kleinbedrijf. Ik kijk uit naar de impact die we hiermee gaan maken.”

Nadia Madnoersan

Founders’ Friday with Sofia van Buuren, FitFlask

Posted on December 13, 2024December 13, 2024 by 95001rbu@eur.nl

Entrepreneurship can be demanding and sometimes overwhelming, especially when balancing a full-time student life with the fast-paced world of business. However, to succeed and avoid being bogged down by negativity, it’s essential to focus on the positive and draw inspiration from those around us. One such source of inspiration is Sofia van Buuren, one of the ideation finalists of the Erasmus University Challenge 2024. As the founder of FitFlask, Sofia embodies resilience, passion, and vision: qualities that make her our Friday Founder.

Goals and Mission

Sofia, the mastermind of FitFlask, brought the idea of combining something ordinary, like a water bottle, and combine it with something revolutionary: the palm cooling technology. Initially, this technology may sound like something taken out of an alien movie, something that cannot be confined within a water bottle- and that was true, until Sofia came up with this twist.

The palm-cooling works like this: when you feel overwhelmed during your regular workout, it is usually because you are overheating, which nudges you to stop working out completely. But, by touching something that has a cold surface, your bodily temperature is regulated, then you can continue to work out!

Noticing that palm cooling technology was overlooked, she integrated it into a gym essential: a water bottle, making it effortless to adopt and fit seamlessly into existing routines.

Sofia's Mission: to decrease the level of athletics who are resuming to the consumption of steroids while combining the use of something that already exist and scaling it to the next level!

The Shiny Object Syndrome

Her first challenge was battling shiny object syndrome which is the tendency to focus on tasks that feel important but don’t actually drive progress. Early on, she found herself caught up in activities like designing logos or building a website without a viable product or leads. And, although they are important aspects of a business, Sofia claimed that it took conscious effort and practice to shift her focus toward tasks that truly moved the needle. Once she made that change, her business started to grow.

Another challenge was navigating the entrepreneurial world as a medical student with no prior business experience. She often felt unqualified, especially when competing in events like the Erasmus University Challenge. However, she realized that everyone brings unique strengths to the table. Her scientific background, for instance, became a valuable asset, helping her impress mentors and apply critical knowledge to her business. The key, she discovered, is to identify and leverage your strengths, even if they don’t seem relevant at first, to propel your venture forward.

The Innovative Product

To integrate palm cooling technology into something as simple as a water bottle, the design involves two layers: an inner layer for the water and an outer layer housing the cooling system. While the specifics are under wraps, the main challenge lies in miniaturizing the cooling technology. Unlike heating systems, cooling systems are notoriously difficult to shrink, making this a significant hurdle.

The biggest challenge is balancing size, weight, and functionality. While reducing the bottle’s size is tough, the focus remains on ensuring optimal cooling performance. Sacrifices like holding less water or being slightly heavier are acceptable if the product delivers maximum efficacy. The priority is to create a solution that works effectively, rather than compromising performance for convenience.

Advice

Pick something you genuinely love, something you can turn into a lifestyle.

Sofia van Buuren

To young entrepreneurs, her message is clear: become an action taker. Action is a skill you build and practice daily, and it’s the most valuable asset an entrepreneur can develop.

What's Next?

Sofia is on an exciting journey and invites you to be part of it! She’s currently searching for a tech co-founder, an engineer with expertise in medical, mechanical, or thermodynamic systems, to help bring FitFlask to life. Alongside this, she’s diving into market research to ensure the product meets real needs. “A great idea is just the beginning,” she shares. “Understanding the market is key before building something truly impactful.”

Be the Next Friday Founder!

Want to showcase your startup to a global audience? We are dedicated to highlighting the journeys of entrepreneurs and sharing their stories with our worldwide community. By featuring your startup, we aim to inspire others and celebrate your achievements. To be considered, simply fill out the form, and our team will reach out to you!

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Startup OASYS NOW van EUR-alumni wint €1 miljoen in SLUSH competitie

Posted on November 28, 2024December 11, 2024 by 95001rbu@eur.nl

Van Berlijn tot Helsinki: A Winning Streak

OASYS NOW, dat een intuïtief platform biedt dat patiënten wereldwijd in contact brengt met mogelijkheden voor klinisch onderzoek, begon hier aan onze Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam. Ze waren de eerste winnaars van de Erasmus University Challenge drie jaar geleden, georganiseerd door Erasmus Enterprise. Sindsdien heeft het team hun ondernemersvaardigheden aangescherpt en in 2022 wonnen ze dan ook de Stage Two prijs in Berlijn, waarmee ze hun positie als een van Europa’s top universitaire startups verstevigden.

SLUSH is een wereldwijde competitie voor startups, investeerders en de industrie, die jaarlijks wordt gehouden in Helsinki, Finland. SLUSH licht transformatieve innovaties uit en dient als lanceerplatform voor ondernemend talent dat wereldwijde uitdagingen aanpakt.

Medeoprichter Nima Salami: “Het winnen van de SLUSH-prijs van € 1 miljoen is een bewijs van het potentieel van onze missie. We zetten ons in om de manier waarop mensen hun gezondheidsreis ervaren te transformeren. Deze erkenning biedt ons de kans om onze impact verder te vergroten.”

“We proberen de beste talenten in meerdere sectoren aan te trekken. Ik denk dat wat we gaan bouwen veel mensenlevens raakt, dus het aantrekken van het beste talent betekent niet alleen de ‘harde’ vaardigheden die ze hebben, maar ook de ‘hart’-vaardigheden”, zegt Nima Salami. Bovendien breidt OASYS NOW haar activiteiten uit buiten Europa. Sara Okhuijsen: “Het is onze missie om gepersonaliseerde gezondheidszorg wereldwijd toegankelijk te maken voor iedereen.”

Innovatie ondersteunen aan de Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam

Het succes van OASYS NOW illustreert de impact van initiatieven zoals de Erasmus University Challenge, die innovatie stimuleert en opkomende ondernemers belangrijke middelen biedt. Erasmus Enterprise blijft ondernemingen steunen die echte problemen aanpakken met creativiteit en vastberadenheid.

Photo: Petri Anttila

Ideation: The Cornerstone of Entrepreneurship

Posted on November 21, 2024November 21, 2024 by 95001rbu@eur.nl

When we think about entrepreneurship, we will think about hardship, we envision the finished product, thriving business, and satisfied customers. The truth is, all the successful businesses have one common foundation: the spark, or the idea. Ideation is the process of shaping and refining that spark. At Erasmus Enterprise, the importance of this phase is emphasized not only as the starting point, but also a stage that entrepreneurs revisit throughout their journey.

I’m Raluca Bularca, the social media and marketing assistant at Erasmus Enterprise—our vibrant ‘Yellow Temple.’ My own entrepreneurial journey is just beginning. While I’ve been lucky enough to support students chasing their entrepreneurial dreams, I’ve always hesitated to take the leap myself. That’s why I sat down with Ernst Hoestra, CEO of Erasmus Enterprise, to get his insights on the phases of entrepreneurship, starting with ideation. Here are the main takeaways:

Ideation is where it all begins, it's that phase where you take a mere spark of hope and work on making it tangible. This isn't just a one-time thing, no matter how successful your business becomes, you'll find yourself returning to this phase over and over again.

Ernst Hoestra

From Problem to Possibility

One of the key takeaways from the interview was the importance of aligning ideas with passion. Identifying that “big idea” starts by looking at everyday problems and considering how they can be solved. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to ask: What is the core issue? Who can benefit from the solution? And how can assumptions about the idea can be challenged and refined?

“Constant research and refinement are pivotal. If you want to make sure that your idea will evolve into something meaningful, you must start assuming things about your surroundings. Test your assumptions, research, and apply your findings.”

The Power of Passion

At the heart of ideation lies personal passion, and most of the successful ideas often come from entrepreneurs who are deeply invested in the issue that they are trying to solve. That is why entrepreneurship is not just about the problem you are solving; it is about tackling something that resonates personally. More than this, Hoestra emphasized that the ideation phase is not about developing a full business model, but it’s about exploring the idea’s potential and finding a unique space in the market.

A Journey That Never Ends

Innovation is never a straight line. Entrepreneurship is about constantly adapting, questioning, and being open to new ideas. Even experienced entrepreneurs revisit their original ideas when faced with challenges. Uncertainty shouldn’t be seen as an obstacle but as a signal to return to ideation, refine the idea, and let it guide you forward.

Embracing Uncertainty

The process of ideation is not a one-time event; it’s a continuous cycle. As the CEO put it, “You return to ideation again and again.” No matter how successful a business becomes, revisiting and refining the original idea remains crucial. This approach of breaking down thoughts, or “reverse engineering,” allows entrepreneurs to reconnect with the essence of their ideas and refine their solutions.

Entrepreneurship often begins with a mission or a burning question, whether it’s solving a problem or filling a gap in the market. The initial moment of inspiration might come from something as simple as observing challenges in daily life, such as inefficiencies at work or issues faced by students on campus. This is where the magic of ideation begins.

Ready to Begin?

Every entrepreneurial journey is unique, but guidance is always helpful. Erasmus Enterprise offers ideation workshops designed to spark creativity; help identify your audience, and guide you through the process of refining your solutions. Think of it as having a mentor by your side, ensuring you stay focused on your vision. You can download The Impact Starting Guide for more insights on how Erasmus Enterprise can support your journey. Follow along as we explore the endless possibilities of entrepreneurship together.

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Spectacular Grand Finale of the Erasmus University Challenge 2024: Bigger Than Ever!

Posted on September 19, 2024September 23, 2024 by Valeria

On September 19, the Excelsior Stadium was buzzing with excitement during the Grand Finale of the third edition of the Erasmus University Challenge. With a record-breaking 74 teams, revamped categories, and a focus on logistics, energy transition, and societal impact, this was the most impressive edition yet.

In addition to the familiar Ideation and Prototyping categories, a new Start-up category was introduced this year for more established ventures, raising the stakes and driving even more innovation!

Agora triumphed in the Ideation category (€3000 prize) with their revolutionary idea to enhance social cohesion by connecting people with local
PAVA won the Prototype prize (€4000) with their groundbreaking innovation, which involves placing sensors in elderly residents’ rooms, connected to a dashboard interface for caregivers.
The Start-up prize (€5000) was awarded toCupHubfor their pioneeringinitiativeCasey, a reliable storage and cleaning container for menstrual cups,allowing them to be discreetly cleaned anywhere.

Rotterdam, 12th September 2024 – Erasmus Enterprise proudly announces the 14 visionary start-ups and student initiatives that have made it to the finals of the prestigious Erasmus University Challenge. These finalists represent the future of innovation, showcasing bold ideas that are set to reshape industries, drive positive societal impact, and solve global challenges.

The third edition of the Erasmus University Challenge competition provides a platform for students to transform their ideas into viable business models. From streamlining emergency response times to creating eco-friendly baby clothing subscriptions, these projects aren’t just ideas; they’re blueprints for a better future.

Prizes Worth Up To €10.000,-

To help the winners make the next steps in their journey, finalists can win prizes in three categories: Ideation (€3,000 prize), Prototype (€5,000 prize), and Start-up (€10,000 prize). Aside from the monetary prizes, finalists of the Erasmus University Challenge can win the audience award (€1000,-), co-working spaces, a year of free beers or wines or sodas. They gain access to expert mentorship, personalised coaching, and valuable networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors. They also receive visibility within the entrepreneurial community and potential partnerships to help accelerate the growth and positive impact of their ventures. Additionally, winners benefit from access to Erasmus Enterprise’s innovation ecosystem, offering resources to further develop or scale their businesses.

The initiative is a testament to Erasmus University’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial talent and driving positive change in society. “The programme mirrors the real startup and scale-up world closely. Even if some ideas don’t make it to the finals, participants gain invaluable lessons along the way. We’re proud to kickstart their entrepreneurial journey.” said Liesje Goldschmidt of Erasmus Enterprise.

Introducing The Finalists

After a rigorous selection process, 14 exceptional teams have been chosen to compete in the Erasmus University Challenge finals.

In the Ideation category, participants focus on the conceptual development of innovative ideas that have the potential to solve real-world problems. The Prototype category is for teams that have moved beyond the idea phase and developed a working model or proof of concept for their solution. In the Start-up category, participants are scaling or refining their ventures with established business models and real-world market potential.

In the Ideation category, Samaritance, FitFlask, Agora, and SafeSips bring forward creative and visionary concepts.

Samaritance

Ideation

FitFlask

Ideation

Agora

Ideation

SafeSips

Ideation

Prototype

Find out who the next Dennis Bergkamp and Frank de Boer will be in the Grand Finale of the Erasmus University Challenge, which will take place on 19th September 2024, at the Excelsior Stadium, Rotterdam.

This thrilling event offers you a front-row seat to witness the next generation of innovators, network with industry leaders, and support solutions that will shape our world. Secure your spot and experience the future of entrepreneurship. For more details on the event and to secure your spot, please visit Erasmus University Challenge Grand Finale.

About Erasmus University Challenge

The Erasmus University Challenge is a platform that encourages students to develop their entrepreneurial skills and turn their innovative ideas into real-world solutions. It connects ambitious students with business experts, enabling them to create startups that contribute positively to society. The Challenge reflects Erasmus Enterprise’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and positive societal impact.

For further information, please contact:

Amy Kong
Marketing & Communications Lead
amy.kong@eur.nl

Entrepreneurial Vibes at Eurekaweek 2024: A Recap of Erasmus Enterprise at the Campus Day and Master Workshop

Posted on August 28, 2024September 9, 2024 by Valeria

This year’s Eurekaweek at Erasmus University Rotterdam was nothing short of spectacular, and Erasmus Enterprise was thrilled to play an active role in welcoming new students to our vibrant campus and entrepreneurial community. From August 19th to 22nd, first-year students—ranging from bachelor to pre-master and master students—immersed themselves in the university’s rich academic and social life, and we were there to ensure they also caught the entrepreneurial spirit!

Campus Day: Fun, Networking, and Entrepreneurial Exploration

On August 20th, during Campus Day, the Woudestein Campus buzzed with excitement as hundreds of students eagerly explored its vibrant grounds. Erasmus Enterprise was right at the heart of the action, offering a lively mix of activities designed to engage and inspire future entrepreneurs.

Our goal shooting game was a highlight, drawing in crowds eager to showcase their skills and compete for prizes. The game wasn’t just about fun, though—it was a gateway to conversations about ambition, goals, and the entrepreneurial mindset. Many students walked away with prizes, and even more left with newfound enthusiasm for the entrepreneurial journey.

In addition to the games, our booth—shared with partners from YES!Delft, Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship Students, Graduate Entrepreneur, Erasmus University Challenge and Port of Rotterdam—served as a hub for information and inspiration. Students stopped by to learn about the vast array of resources and opportunities available to them through Erasmus Enterprise and our partners. From mentorship to incubation programs, we highlighted how students could turn their ideas into reality.

The day also featured our popular wheel of fortune, where students could win more exciting prizes. But perhaps the biggest takeaway for many was the chance to network and relax in our designated area, making new connections and feeling welcomed into the Erasmus entrepreneurial community.

Master Workshop: Deep Dives and Meaningful Connections

On August 21st, we shifted gears to focus on students entering their Master’s programs. Our Master Workshop, held at the Q Lounge on campus, offered a deep dive into the world of entrepreneurship. The workshops were designed to equip master’s students with the tools and connections they need to thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

The workshop sessions were packed with insights from industry partners like the Port of Rotterdam, Up!Rotterdam, YES!Delft, Graduate Entrepreneur and the Erasmus University Challenge. Participants had the opportunity to engage and speed date in two interactive workshops, where they learned about the entrepreneurial ecosystem and how to leverage the resources available through Erasmus Enterprise and our partners.

After the workshops, the atmosphere was charged with excitement during the networking drinks session. The speed-dating sessions allowed students to make meaningful connections that could be pivotal in their future journeys.

Looking Ahead

Eurekaweek 2024 was just the beginning. Erasmus Enterprise is committed to supporting the entrepreneurial ambitions of every student at Erasmus University. Whether you’re still exploring ideas or ready to launch your startup, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

For those who joined us during Eurekaweek, we hope you left with inspiration, connections, and a sense of excitement for the journey ahead. For those who couldn’t make it, stay tuned for more events and opportunities to engage with Erasmus Enterprise throughout the year.

Here’s to an entrepreneurial year ahead—let’s make it unforgettable!

#Eurekaweek2024 #ErasmusEnterprise #Entrepreneurship #ErasmusUniversity #CampusDay #MasterWorkshop

Revealed: The 2024 NL Startup Competition Winners

Posted on June 5, 2024June 6, 2024 by Valeria

Rotterdam, 30.05.2024: Out of 109 applicants, 16 startups pitched their innovative ideas this Wednesday at the first edition of the NL Startup Competition during the UPSTREAM Festival at Annabel in Rotterdam. Competing in front of an expert jury, the startups showcased their projects in four impact-focused categories: social, energy transition, digital, and circular/sustainable.

"These awards not only highlight the remarkable achievements of these startups, but also underscore our commitment to supporting innovation and social impact. We look forward to seeing how all participating startups continue to grow and make a difference in their respective fields.”

"I’m feeling really energised by the whole event. I think it’s really inspiring to see the other pitches but also the process of really breaking down what we do and simplify it."

“My experience with NL has been super good. The environment is very nice. Everyone is so entrepreneurial and everyone wants to help each other out.”

"What I experienced today at the NL Startup Competition is the diversity of entrepreneurs, everyone is doing different things, but you all have the same kind of problems. And I love being around entrepreneurs who have the drive to make something out of their ideas"

Most Innovative Social Startups

The Most Innovative Social Startups recognizes startups making significant contributions to social impact. The winners in this category receive:

1. A €10,000 cash prize to support their continued development and growth: ChatLicense

2. A 1-hour media training session with MT/Sprout to enhance their communication and public relations skills: PAL

3. A 3-month co-working space provided by Erasmus Enterprise, fostering collaboration and innovation within a vibrant entrepreneurial community: Subul & TeachBuddy.

Most Innovative Energy Transition Winner

The Most Innovative Energy Transition Startups category recognizes startups that are driving the shift towards sustainable energy solutions:

1. A €10,000 cash prize to help fuel further innovation and development in their energy transition projects: FLASC B.V.

2. A 1-hour media training session provided by MT/Sprout, aimed at honing their communication skills and enhancing their media presence: Avoxt

3. A unique opportunity to race with Max in an electric Porsche on the circuit in Zandvoort, courtesy of VolkerWessels, providing a thrilling experience and networking opportunity: Tree Composites

4. A 3-month co-working space at BlueCity, fostering collaboration and innovation within a community dedicated to sustainability and circular economy principles: iON-ENERGY.

Most Innovative Digital Startups:

The Most Innovative Digital Startups category honors those startups that are pushing the
boundaries of technology and digital innovation. Winners in this category receive a robust
support package designed to enhance their growth and visibility:

1. A €10,000 cash prize to accelerate their technological advancements and business development: I see U baby care

2. A 1-hour media training session by MT/Sprout, aimed at refining their public speaking and media interaction skills to better promote their innovations: Spatialise

3. An exhilarating opportunity to race with Max in an electric Porsche on the circuit in Zandvoort, provided by VolkerWessels. This unique experience not only offers excitement but also a chance to network with key industry figures: Syntho & TwinAi.

Most Innovative Circular/Sustainable Startups:

The Most Innovative Circular/Sustainable Startups category recognizes startups that are leading the way in sustainability and circular economy practices. Winners in this category receive a comprehensive prize package designed to support their growth and enhance their impact:

1. A €10,000 cash prize to further develop their sustainable initiatives and expand their market presence: Kumasi Drinks

2. A 1-hour media training session by MT/Sprout, equipping them with the skills to effectively communicate their vision and engage with media outlets: Nature’s Principles

3. The prestigious V.O. Patents & Trademarks ‘Innovation Award,’ which includes a patent search valued at €2,500 to protect and advance their innovative solutions: Coastruction

4. An exciting opportunity to race with Max in an electric Porsche on the Zandvoort circuit, courtesy of VolkerWessels. This unique experience not only offers thrill but also provides a valuable networking opportunity: Back to Batteries.

On top of the category prizes, the judges awarded ChatLicense with an entry ticket to the Top 250 Bootcamp for the Entrepreneurship World Cup. This exclusive ticket offers unparalleled opportunities for mentorship, networking, and furthering their entrepreneurial journey on a global stage. “We’re super excited to go to the Startup World Cup, because this is a global stage and ChatLicense deserves a global stage, because it offers a solution to a global problem” says Marjolein van Tilburg, co-founder of ChatLicense.

A message from the judges:

"The value of this event is to really get to know new ideas, new people and a lot of energy. I really believe that we will stay in touch for a long time and see how we can work together."

Dewi Wesselman

Project Manager ESG & Digital at Damen.

About NL Startup Competition

The first NL Startup Competition is a joint initiative organized by Upstream, MT/Sprout, Golden Egg Check, and Erasmus Enterprise. This initiative is supported by esteemed partners such as the Port of Rotterdam, the Municipality of Rotterdam, V.O. Patents & Trademarks, Rabobank, Damen, VolkerWessels, Econsulate, and HelloPrint.

These organizations have come together to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, and to provide a platform for startups to showcase their impactful solutions in various sectors.

Social Category Finalists

PAL

PAL (Amie Technologies BV is a digital palliative care platform for timely and efficient access to care for anyone with a life-limiting illness. Pal is a palliative care platform fuelled by family observations that empowers the whole care team. It is a scalable, accessible, and affordable alternative to in-person care, which can be introduced at the earliest point in the patient journey.

Subul

Subul is an impactful global tech talent solution, where cutting-edge technology and a sophisticated platform take center stage. Our mission combines the dynamism of ethical outsourcing and out staffing with the power of advanced tech to unlock the potential of disadvantaged communities, aiming for both business growth and societal transformation.

TeachBuddy

TeachBuddy is a peer-tutoring software, that helps schools create large-scale projects in which their students support each other through tutoring. The software matches the right pupils from the same school together, plans when they meet, tracks their progress, and keeps teachers informed.

ChatLicense

ChatLicense offers a smartphone diploma and experience game for kids, where kids earn the use of apps while engaging parents through the parent platform.

Digital Category Finalists

Syntho

Syntho is an AI generated synthetic data by generating an entirely new dataset of fresh data records. Therefore information to identify real individuals is simply not present in a synthetic dataset which allows you to share your data without privacy concerns.

Twin AI

Twin AI provides a low-code AI platform that automates repetitive tasks and integrates various AI models seamlessly. Our solution enables organizations to set up workflows once, automate prompts, and iteratively improve results without the need for continuous coding, making AI adoption more accessible and efficient.

Spatialise

Spatialise is enabling the regeneration of soils through geospatial intelligence by helping farmers make better use of their assets (stable, machines & land) while decreasing pressure on natural resources for people, planet and prosperity.

I See U baby care

Our AI software will help uncover and decrease sleep deprivation in hospitalized (pre)term baby’s, leading to better (brain) development, faster growth and fewer infections; altogether we strive for better changes at a healthy future. For more information contact: iseeyoubabycare@gmail.com

Energy Transition Finalists

Avoxt BV

Avoxt BV offers a membrane less electrolyzer that has ultra-low maintenance, high up time and high efficiency, therefore reducing the cost of green hydrogen with 25%.

FLASC

FLASC HPES (Hydro-Pneumatic Energy Storage) offers the first solution tailored for colocation with offshore wind. With the co-located FLASC HPES system, offshore wind farms can become an active provider of grid flexibility when using energy storage. Recent studies show that this can add 10-20% more value to the wind farm output by improving the way it is monetized. For more information visit this website

iON-Energy

iON-ENERGY utilizes its patented energy harvesting technology to produce clean electricity for domestic use, 24/7/ 365. The home device called the E-Box will revolutionize the way households can obtain the best energy solution for the best price. The E-box will provide 5,000 kWh per year, which is more than most household use per year. It is portable, does not require installation, and is more affordable than the alternative solar panels.

Tree Composites

Developing composite joints to enable better, lighter and cheaper jacket foundations for offshore wind turbines.

Circular/Sustainable Finalists

Back to Battery

The energy transition causes a material transition with a few local sources and vulnerable supply chains.Back to Battery offers a closed-loop circular solution for end-of-life Li ion batteries, producing critical raw materials locally and sustainable, reducing CO2 by >90% and minimizing waste.

Coastruction

Building a sustainable future with nature-inspired and purpose-built 3D-printed reefs for marine life restoration, conservation and coastal protection. By leveraging unique powder bed technology, Coastruction creates sustainable substrates that blend seamlessly into the natural environment, addressing the urgent threats facing marine ecosystems. Our multifunctional solution not only restores damaged reef systems but also protects vulnerable coastlines and boosts local economies.

Kumasi

We fight food waste and income waste by upcycling cacao fruit into appealing fast moving consumer products. We revolutionize the cacao industry, uplift farmers, and create delicious products, first within the beverages category and now across others. We do this by pioneering the vertical integration of cacao fruit as a new ingredient for a wide range of consumer products and expanding on the innovations of upcycling more parts of the pods (husk).

Nature's Principles

We offer a ground-breaking process for lactic acid production to make biopolymers from residual streams. Production of lactic acid and derivatives from 2G feedstocks in a cost-effective operation.

For Media Inquiries:

Erasmus Enterprise
Johanna Raats
Marketing & Communications Lead
Johanna.Raats@eur.nl

Upstream | Woensdag 29 mei 2024 | Photo's by: Jeancarlo Nunes dos Anjos

Students Gain Unique Opportunity to Connect with 45+ IndustryExperts at Erasmus University Speed Date Event

Posted on June 4, 2024June 4, 2024 by Valeria

Rotterdam, Netherlands May 28th: Last week’s Speed Date Event at Erasmus University College, centrally located in the heart of Rotterdam, marked a significant milestone in the ongoing Erasmus University Challenge. Held on Day Zero of the Upstream Festival, the event was a remarkable success, fostering innovation and collaboration between entrepreneurial teams and industry experts.

The event featured an impressive line-up with 53 teams and 45 coaches from various industries, including logistics, education, energy transition, and more. With over 150 speed dates taking place throughout the day, the atmosphere was buzzing with enthusiasm and innovative ideas.

Matthew Harvey, Managing Director of Erasmus University College, opened the event withthe historical significance of the building and reminding participants that “Life is not a sprint.It’s a marathon!” Followingly, Oscar van Veen, Director of Innovation at Port of Rotterdam,captivated the audience with his compelling journey from an aspiring basketball player to a lifelong entrepreneur, emphasizing that innovation is a collaborative process and that skill scan transfer seamlessly between the startup and corporate environments. Throughout the event, partners provided invaluable feedback, shedding light on market needs, validation, strategic alignment, and potential challenges. “It’s fantastic to see so many teams well-prepared with insightful questions for us partners” as noted by Jits Brouwer from ErasmusX.

The synergy between the diverse teams and seasoned experts was evident, highlighting the importance of exchanging innovation with industry leaders from diverse backgrounds. Such interactions are essential for sustainable growth, the success in the entrepreneurial landscape and refining the participating teams’ business strategies.

“The most valuable feedback came from the MediaMarkt team. We're building a system that is for events and theme parks and I thought in my endless excitement that it would be also applicable to MediaMarkt. However, they pointed out that it needs to be much more specific. We need to identify the use case and understand the market in greater depth.”

“I joined the Erasmus University Challenge because it gives me the opportunity to improve my entrepreneurial ski lls while also actually making my own dream and idea for my own business into reality. And learning from different cultures how to build my own business and start my company and turn my dream into reality.”

“I want an opp ortunity to not only test my ideas but also gain network and I think working on your value proposition or working on your business model via talking to people that are experienced or not so experienced as you are because I also get to talk to all the other students here. It gives a lot of new ideas and that's beautiful.”

"I'm a big fan of the Erasmus University Challenge, because it's very good to deliver as a university, also entrepreneurs. I think it’s also good to give them support to do this. Not only to become an entrepreneur, but also foster an entrepreneurial mindset."

Want to know more?

Want to know more about the 3rd Edition of the Erasmus University Challenge and all theparticipants? Visit our website: erasmusuniversitychallenge.nl and follow us on social media (@Erasmus_University_Challenge). For questions, reach out to laulinda.massunda@soapbox.nl or info@erasmusuniversitychallenge.nl.

The Erasmus University Challenge is initiated by Erasmus Enterprise and organized annually in collaboration with Soapbox.

Erasmus Enterprise: helping students become entrepreneurs

Free tutoring for all students

How does Erasmus Enterprise help with entrepreneurship?

Solutions for today's problems

What does that look like in practice?

Erasmus University Challenge & NL Startup Competition

What could be improved?

Tackling Rotterdam's problems

Verschillende programma’s

Nadia Madnoersan​

Goals and Mission

Sofia's Mission: to decrease the level of athletics who are resuming to the consumption of steroids while combining the use of something that already exist and scaling it to the next level!

The Shiny Object Syndrome

The Innovative Product

Advice

What's Next?

Be the Next Friday Founder!

Van Berlijn tot Helsinki: A Winning Streak

Innovatie ondersteunen aan de Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam

From Problem to Possibility

The Power of Passion

A Journey That Never Ends

Embracing Uncertainty

Ready to Begin?

Follow us on our socials

The Winners

Ideation Category

Prototype Category

Start-up Category

Excitement Until the Very End

Audience Award

Free drinks

Stage 2 Berlin

Erasmus Enterprise Award

YES!Delft Award

Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship Award

UP!Stream Award

Innovation Quarter Award

Graduate Entrepreneur Award

International Ambitions

Prizes Worth Up To €10.000,-

Introducing The Finalists

Samaritance

FitFlask

Agora

SafeSips

Edion

Fiwani

Aestuarium

Emilaid

MiniSwaps

PAVA

CupHub

Buzz – Power Bank Sharing

Modelmatic

Hops & Co.

Join Us at the Grand Finale!

About Erasmus University Challenge

For further information, please contact:

Campus Day: Fun, Networking, and Entrepreneurial Exploration

Master Workshop: Deep Dives and Meaningful Connections

Looking Ahead

Most Innovative Social Startups

Most Innovative Energy Transition Winner

Most Innovative Digital Startups:

Most Innovative Circular/Sustainable Startups:

A message from the judges:

About NL Startup Competition

Social Category Finalists

Digital Category Finalists

I See U baby care

Energy Transition Finalists

Circular/Sustainable Finalists

Want to know more?

Nadia Madnoersan