NL Startup Competition

Join the first NL Startup Competition

Participate in the very first NL Startup Competition and pitch your startup for prize money, a valuable network and knowledge.

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The first NL Startup Competition is here

Do you have a startup focused on social impact, the energy transition, digital progress or solutions for the circular economy and sustainability? Then participate in the very first NL Startup Competition and pitch your startup for prize money, a valuable network and knowledge. In addition, you can also get a chance to win an entry ticket to Entrepreneurship World Cup in America! And, winners of all four categories will secure a hotlap around Circuit Zandvoort in one of Porsche’s cutting-edge electric cars.

The first NL Startup Competition is organized by Upstream, MT/Sprout, Golden Egg Check and Erasmus Enterprise, in collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam, the Municipality of Rotterdam, V.O. Patents & Trademarks, Rabobank and Erasmus University Rotterdam.

Timeline

Mark your calendar!

April 15, 2024

Pre-registration deadline

April 29, 2024

Announcement of the finalists

May 7, 2024

NL Startup Competition Pre-event – Workshop “How to Pitch”

May 28, 2024

NL Startup Competition Pre-event – Speed date & Get to know the teams

May 29, 2024

NL Startup Competition – Finale

Celebrate success with

Prize Money!
€ 0

By participating in the first NL Startup Competition, you can also get a chance to win an entry ticket to Entrepreneurship World Cup in America!

Winners of all four categories will secure the ultimate prize — a hotlap around Circuit Zandvoort on the 30th of May in one of Porsche's cutting-edge electric cars. Get ready to experience innovation and performance, driven by dreams!

Opportunities

Discover the exclusive benefits of participating in the NL Startup Competition.

PR Reach

Boost your startup’s visibility and credibility through strategic media coverage and promotional campaigns.

Networking

Connect with industry professionals and entrepreneurs, opening doors to collaborations and partnerships.

Access to potential investors

Pitch your venture to investors seeking promising opportunities for funding and support.

Exposure and recognition

Increase visibility within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, boosting credibility and unlocking new opportunities.

Mentorship

Gain valuable guidance and support from experienced mentors to accelerate your startup’s growth and success.

Exclusive rewards

Access resources and services tailored to help startups overcome challenges and achieve their goals along with €10.000 prize!

“At Erasmus Enterprise, we acknowledge the transformative potential of every startup. The NL Startup Competition is not only offering prizes, but also invaluable mentorship and support. We are excited to be a part of this initiative that puts a spotlight on innovative minds and steers their ideas towards impactful outcomes, all while staying true to the Erasmian Way.”
Liesje Goldschmidt
Liesje GoldschmidtHead of Business Development at Erasmus Enterprise
"De NL Start-Up Competition is een belangrijk nieuw initiatief dat innovatieve startups een podium biedt om oplossingen te ontwikkelen die cruciale maatschappelijke uitdagingen aanpakken."
Michiel Gaasterland
Michiel GaasterlandStrategic Advisory & Business Mentorship
"We can't wait to have the inaugural edition of the NL Startup Competition at Upstream Festival this year. This competition is the perfect opportunity for startups to put their pitching skills to the test in front of an audience of national and international investors, founders, innovative corporates and other stakeholders. Get ready for a blend of innovation, networking, and game-changing pitches that will leave a lasting mark on the entrepreneurial landscape!"
Lisette Braakenburg van Backum
Lisette Braakenburg van BackumPartner & Projects Lead at Up!Rotterdam
“Get ready to witness NL Startup Competition dominating the spotlight at Upstream Festival. This is the ultimate platform for promising startups to seize exposure and tap into an expansive network.”
Lars Crama
Lars CramaUpstream Festival
"Embrace the challenge, unleash your creativity, and let innovation be your drive.
Looking forward to be inspired in this contest."
Marco Molling
Marco MollingEuropean Patent Attorney at V.O. Patents and Trademarks
“Proud to be part of the first NL Startup Competition. Can’t wait to see all the ambitious ideas and founders. Supporting this competition not only fuels the growth of promising startups but also reinforces our dedication to keep developing this entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
Gilles Meijer
Gilles MeijerGolden Egg Check
“I'm energized by the prospect of startups tackling societal challenges through innovation. Events like the NL Startup Competition offer vital networking, customer acquisition, and funding opportunities to help startups succeed. Really looking forward to being part of this ecosystem.”
Tobias Gutleb
Tobias GutlebVolkerWessels
“I’m passionate about using technology to make the world a better place. I’m currently working on a project called Ease2pay, it is an intelligent activation and payment platform. With it, operators of charging stations, parkings, ports, markets, marinas and camper parks create self-service options for users.”
Jan Borghuis
Jan BorghuisEase2Pay
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Explore the Categories

Explore the diverse opportunities awaiting entrepreneurs in the NL Startup Competition.

1. Social

Drive positive change and tackle pressing societal issues head-on and get a chance to win €10.000 prize.

2. Digital

Transform industries with cutting-edge tech solutions that streamline processes and improve experiences and get a chance to win €10.000 prize.

3. Energy Transition

Lead the charge towards a sustainable future with innovative energy solutions and get a chance to win €10.000 prize.

4. Circular/Sustainable

Promote environmental health by rethinking how we use and reuse resources and get a chance to win €10.000 prize.

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Organizational Partners

Driving entrepreneurship in the Netherlands.

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Partners

Driving entrepreneurship in the Netherlands.

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NL Startup Competition


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