The Entrepreneurial Experience

Student

Startup

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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

March 19

The Launch

It all starts with The Launch. Discover what The Entrepreneurial Experience is all about and dip your toes in entrepreneurship with inspiration and insights from top entrepreneurs.
April

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.
April - June

Coaching from experts

Get personalized guidance from experienced mentors and industry experts who help you develop your ideas, overcome challenges, and grow your entrepreneurial skills throughout the program.
April/May

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.
May

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.
April/May/June

Edubadge & Certificate

Earn your edubadge and official certificate to showcase your entrepreneurial skills and achievements.
June 18

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.