You didn’t just come to the University of Twente - The most entrepreneurial university of the Netherlands - just to get a degree, did you? You came to test ideas, solve real problems, and build something that matters. The Entrepreneurial Experience is where you stop overthinking and start doing.
In about two months, you work hands-on on your own concept, guided by mentors, experts, and entrepreneurs who’ve been there before. You get to visit and collaborate with innovative regional companies, tackle real challenges, and gain unique insights. Along the way, you’ll earn a digital edubadge and an official certificate to showcase your entrepreneurial skills. Perfect to combine with your study.
This isn’t about winning. It’s about trying, learning, and finding out what you’re capable of. Take the plunge. Build your idea. Leave your mark.
Step into the world of entrepreneurship.
The Entrepreneurial Experience is for every student who wants to experience what it’s like to be an entrepreneur, develop real-world entrepreneurial skills, and explore new ways of thinking. By choosing the most entrepreneurial university in the Netherlands, you’ve already taken the first step – now this is your chance to dive deeper. You don’t need to have an idea yet; this program is about exploring, learning, and experimenting. Along the way, you’ll meet regional corporate companies, gain hands-on experience with real challenges, and maybe even connect with your future employer.
This is more than just a study.
The Entrepreneurial Experience gives you the chance to explore, experiment, and grow as an entrepreneur while gaining skills, experience, and connections that set you apart
- Get hands-on experience by working on real challenges and turning your ideas into something tangible.
- Develop key entrepreneurial skills like pitching, business modeling, leadership, and teamwork.
- Meet mentors, experts, entrepreneurs, and regional companies – build connections that could even lead to your future job.
- Explore, experiment, and learn without pressure – you don’t need an idea to get started.
- Earn an edubadge and certificate to show off what you’ve achieved.
- Boost your confidence, gain insights, and build connections that give you a head start in your career.
The Program
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April 2 and 8
Ideation Workshops
In the first phase of The Entrepreneurial Experience, you’ll build a solid foundation in entrepreneurship through hands‑on workshops: Problem Exploration (April 2), Business Model Canvas (April 2) and Shaping Ideas (April 8).
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April 20, May 1
Business Labs
Experience real-world challenges by visiting and collaborating with innovative local companies. Together with other students, you explore fresh ideas, gain hands-on experience, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how these companies operate.
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May 6, 7 and 13
Expertise Workshops
Level up your ideas and skills with practical sessions led by experienced experts. You’ll learn how to pitch with confidence, build strong business models, talk to customers, and lead effectively. Join the Expertise Workshops: 'From idea to reality' on May 6, 'Value Proposition & Market Analysis' on May 7 and 'Customer Conversation, Action Plan, Pitch Training' on May 13 at Incubase.
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May 21
Pitching
Showcase the idea you’ve been developing during the program and pitch it in front of a jury of experts and entrepreneurs. It’s your chance to get feedback, gain experience, and shine with your project. Pitch Night is on May 21 at Incubase.
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April/May/June
Edubadge & Certificate
Earn your Edubadge and official certificate to showcase your entrepreneurial skills and achievements. To earn an Edubadge, you must attend at least two Ideation Workshops, one Business Lab, hand in a Lean Business Model Canvas, and deliver a pitch during Pitch Night.
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June 17
The finals
Step into the ultimate showdown of The Entrepreneurial Experience and pitch your idea to top judges and a live crowd. Not in the finals? No problem – watch, get inspired, and celebrate the creativity and achievements of all participants in a festive finale.
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Sign me up for The Entrepreneurial Experience!
Frequently asked questions
Can you join if you have no idea yet?
Yes, you can join with or without an idea. If you don't have an idea yet, we will help you develop a good one.
Does it matter which stage of your studies you are in?
No, you can join at any stage. As long as you show commitment, it doesn't matter whether you are a first-year bachelor's student, a second-year master's student, or even a PhD candidate.
What is the workload?
The mandatory sessions are equivalent to 1 EC (28 hours), spread over three months. You will also receive this EC in the form of an EduBadge.
Is it easy to combine with your studies?
Yes, this program is specifically aimed at students, and therefore we take your lectures into account. Most sessions are in the evening.
Can you register alone? Or do you have to do it with a group?
You can register individually or with a group. If you register alone, we will guide you in forming a team during the initial contact sessions.
How large can a group be?
The ideal group size is 2-5 people.
Can you participate in TEX multiple times?
Yes, that is possible. For example, if you want to work on a new idea, or if you already have a startup for the next year – then you join during pitch night.
Can you participate if you already have a startup?
Yes, that is possible. In that case, you will join during the pitch night, because you have already laid the foundation.
Who can join The Entrepreneurial Experience?
For students who want to get acquainted with entrepreneurship in an accessible way, whether they already have a startup idea or not. Even if you have a startup, you can participate: in that case, you start at the pitch night.
Can I participate if I am not sure whether I want to become an entrepreneur?
Yes. TEX revolves around an entrepreneurial mindset and skills that are valuable in any career. It'll always look good on your resume!
Do I need a business or technical background?
No. Diversity in teams is actually a strength of the program.
Does it cost money?
No, participation is free for students of the University of Twente and Saxion.
Where do the activities take place?
On the campus of the University of Twente and at partner companies in the region, such as in Almelo, Hengelo, and Enschede.
Is TEX a competition or a learning experience?
It is primarily a learning experience. The competitive elements are intended to make your growth visible, not to win.
TEX Partners
Work together with these companies from the region during The Entrepreneurial Experience.
