How to start a Start Up-The Entrepreneurial Landscape in Chemistry

Moderator: Dr. Isabelle Kohler (VU Amsterdam & NextMinds)

From laboratory breakthrough to successful venture: how do innovative ideas transform into impactful businesses? In this dynamic panel session, we dive into the diverse pathways of entrepreneurship in the chemical sciences. Bringing together entrepreneurs from various backgrounds – university spin-offs, venture capital, consultancy, etc. – we explore the multifaceted journey of turning scientific expertise into entrepreneurial success.

Our panelists represent different stages and approaches to innovation, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of building a business in the scientific ecosystem. Whether you're a PhD student contemplating your first startup, an academic considering commercialization, or a professional seeking new entrepreneurial horizons, this session will discuss the many routes to transforming scientific knowledge into economic and societal value.

A brief overview of the panelists:

•            Aisling Foley - ExCulture (animal-free alternative to heparin, Delft)

•            Bas Tuenter - Sustainables (Reusing contaminated lab disposables, Nijmegen)

•            Maria Sovago - Stralia (coaching and shaping scientists, The Hague)

•            Niels Ouwerkerk - Doser (3D printing company for personalized care, Leiden)

•            Wino Wijnen - Brightlands Maastricht Health Campus and WiWright (fundraising, knowledge 
             valorisation, academic consulting; Maastricht)