Picture this: you’re in a meeting, and your manager shares an ambitious plan. You spot a flaw that could derail everything but you hesitate. Will speaking up make you look negative? Out of touch? So you stay quiet.

Now imagine that moment repeated across hundreds of employees and thousands of meetings. What gets lost? Innovation. Trust. The chance to fix problems before they explode.

That’s the invisible tax of missing psychological safety: the belief that people can ask questions, share ideas, or admit mistakes without fear of humiliation or punishment. Defined and developed by Harvard professor Amy Edmondson, the concept has never been more urgent especially as organizations adapt to hybrid work and accelerating change.

When Safety Is Absent

Workplaces without psychological safety often look calm on the surface but turbulent underneath:

• Silence instead of solutions. Employees keep concerns to themselves.

• Compliance instead of creativity. Teams avoid risk and stick to the safe path.

• Fear instead of trust. Energy goes into impression-management rather than problem-solving.

• Burnout instead of balance. Stress builds when people can’t show vulnerability.

  

A Mirror for Leaders

Leaders who want to know if safety is alive in their teams should ask:

• Do people feel safe pointing out problems to me, even if I’m the cause?

• When mistakes happen, do we react with blame or with curiosity?

• How many ideas stay locked inside because sharing feels risky?

These aren’t checklist items. They’re mirrors. The answers reveal whether a workplace is genuinely safe or quietly dysfunctional.

How Companies Are Tackling It

Across Europe and beyond, organizations are experimenting with practical, often surprising ways to build trust:

• Warmspace – Warmspace is a digital sanctuary for meaningful connection. Through guided conversations supported by prompts, music, and cues. It helps teams, and communities move past small talk into genuine presence and empathy. By creating a safe space where people can speak openly and be heard without judgment, it fosters psychological safety, the foundation of trust, collaboration, and belonging

  

  .

• EngagedLab - Engaged Lab helps organizations turn psychological safety from a buzzword into a foundation for thriving teams. Rooted in the research of Amy Edmondson, they guide teams and leaders through tools like the Psychological Safety Scan, interactive workshops, and tailored mentoring so environments become places where people feel safe to take risks, speak up, and learn without fear of judgment

  

• Remote Team Builder – Remote Team Builder specializes in cultivating high-performing, psychologically safe remote teams. Their approach combines data-driven insights, interactive workshops, and continuous learning to foster trust, openness, and collaboration. By embedding psychological safety into daily practices, they help organizations create cultures where teams thrive together

  

• LEAD - LEAD is a consultancy dedicated to fostering psychologically safe workplaces where individuals can thrive, speak up, and develop. Their approach integrates evidence-based methods tailored to each organization's unique context, addressing challenges such as stress management, conflict resolution, and leader well-being. By promoting a culture of open dialogue, trust, and continuous development, LEAD helps organizations create environments that value psychological safety and well-being

  

Together, these approaches highlight a key truth: there’s no single path to psychological safety, but every path makes it tangible.

The Science Behind the Practice

Decades of research underline why this matters.

Edmondson’s studies showed that high-safety teams reported more mistakes not because they made more, but because they felt safe enough to admit them. Over time, those teams learned faster and performed better.

Google’s Project Aristotle later confirmed it: Among all the factors that drive high-performing teams, psychological safety ranked number one.

The science is robust. The practice is catching up.

Takeaway: From Surviving to Thriving

Psychological safety isn’t a “soft perk.” It’s the infrastructure of innovation, trust, and resilience. Without it, organizations pay in silence, disengagement, and missed opportunities.

Because when people feel safe, they don’t just work harder. They speak, share, challenge, and create. And that’s the difference between organizations that merely survive and those that thrive.

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At Next Wave Zone, we’ve been exploring initiatives that blend personal health, environmental care, and meaningful stories—especially those redefining everyday habits in creative ways.

Our curiosity led us to oostaMo, a Netherlands-based social enterprise turning tap water into a sensory experience through locally sourced dried botanicals. The idea of making hydration both healthier and more sustainable—without gimmicks—stood out immediately.

What’s compelling about oostaMo is how it connects smallholder farmers to a daily water ritual. Their product isn't just a drink; it's a story, a sensory encounter, and a shift in how we relate to our water. For us, it invites a deeper conversation about simplicity, sustainability, and authentic supply chains—all values central to how we envision future ecosystems.

What Is oostaMo Anyway?

oostaMo is a wellness lifestyle brand rooted in Vlissingen. They offer sachets filled with dried flowers, leaves, and roots that naturally flavor tap water—no sugar, no preservatives. The herbs come from small-scale farmers practicing sustainable agriculture.

They’re also part of the Innofest ValidatieLab, testing products with festivalgoers to gather real-time feedback and refine innovations

What Makes oostaMo Work?

Local sourcing with transparency:

Customers can trace specific ingredients to individual farmers and farming practices.

Hydration through less Carbon footprint:

By shipping botanicals, not bottled water, oostaMo avoids plastic and reduces CO₂.

Multi-sensory design:

Combining herbal flavors with activities for holistic well-being.

Story-first ethos:

Started by a farmer’s grandson from Iran, oostaMo channels narratives into every sip.

Validation through lived experience:

Using festival settings to refine the product in authentic social environments.

What Others Can Learn from oostaMo?

• Root experiences in care and storytelling, not just functionality.

• Design for low-impact with high authenticity—small ingredients can carry big meaning.

• Use public settings to refine innovations—flexibly, cheaply, and inclusively.

• Let supply chains tell human stories—when you know who grew your botanical, it changes how you sip.

• 

  ---

Connect with oostaMo team:

Mo Qaem
Fatemeh Rajabi
Sonia Beygi

Iman FeyzBakhsh

Why We’re Watching oostaMo at Next Wave Zone?

oostaMo reflects something we’re increasingly focused on: innovation through everyday rituals—not only covers tech or grand investments. Their blend of flavor, mindfulness, supply ethics, and design is a model for how product, story, and responsibility can live together. They cultivate connection, heritage, and reflection.

Next Wave Zone Takeaway:

oostaMo reminds us that impact doesn’t always require scale—but it does start with care. By connecting smallholder farmers, natural ingredients, and daily habits, they show how local roots with global mindset design can surface complexity—and how hydration can become an act of mindful storytelling.

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In exploring how Netherlands cities (except for Amsterdam) are experimenting with new models of innovation, We were searching for an initiative that goes beyond the usual incubator or startup accelerator. Many programs focus narrowly on early-stage founders, but we wanted to see something that bridges academia, industry, and society—a platform where knowledge and practice collide to produce breakthroughs that wouldn’t happen in silos.

That search led us to Eindhoven Engine, a collective rooted in the Brainport Eindhoven region. The city is already known for Philips, ASML, and a deep culture of engineering excellence. Yet Eindhoven Engine adds another layer: Creating collaborations that solve urgent, complex problems—from sustainable materials to smart health and AI-driven manufacturing.

We are fascinated by models that shorten the distance between idea and impact. Eindhoven Engine isn’t just funding research—it embeds researchers, students, and industry professionals. Also Many projects involve on-campus collaboration. That kind of radical collaboration is what makes the difference: ideas don’t get stuck in reports or labs; they evolve faster through real-time dialogue. This approach feels like a glimpse into the future of problem-solving at scale.

What Is Eindhoven Engine Anyway?

Eindhoven Engine is an acceleration program for research-driven innovation. Founded in 2019. It takes promising R&D projects and supercharges them by adding cross-disciplinary teams and collective intelligence methods. Projects often tackling sustainability, health, and digitalization challenges.

What Makes Eindhoven Engine To Be Alive?

Cross-pollination:

PhD students, engineers, SMEs, and corporate researchers all work shoulder-to-shoulder.

Embedded in Brainport ecosystem:

Close ties to the region give projects both resources and a real-world testing ground.

Physical hub:

Many teams share space in the TU/e campus, encouraging the serendipitous encounters that spark breakthroughs.

Connect with the Eindhoven Engine Team:

What Can We Learn From Eindhoven Engine?

• Don’t just incubate companies—incubate collaborations.

• Location matters: Putting people in the same space accelerates trust and iteration.

• Define challenges, not disciplines: Some of the best results emerge when problems are framed broadly and different expertise collides.

Why We Are Watching Eindhoven Engine at Next Wave Zone?

At Next Wave Zone, we believe the future of work and innovation is about networks that solve together. Eindhoven Engine is showing how to move beyond the linear pipeline of research → publication → product. Instead, it demonstrates a living laboratory model, where universities, industry, and society align around shared missions. For anyone designing the next generation of collaborative platforms—whether in climate, tech, or community building—this initiative is a valuable case study.

Next Wave Zone Takeaway:

Exploring Eindhoven Engine reinforced a central idea we’ve been tracking at Next Wave Zone: the future of innovation isn’t linear—it’s collaborative, interdisciplinary, and context-aware. What started as a search for projects that combine research, creativity, and entrepreneurship became a clear example of how ecosystems can organize themselves around shared challenges.

Eindhoven Engine shows that meaningful progress emerges when people from different backgrounds work side by side, share knowledge, and experiment openly, even if each project follows its own rhythm and methodology. It also highlights the power of embedding initiatives within a broader ecosystem, where local expertise, regional industry, and academic resources converge without constraining creativity.

For us, the biggest takeaway is that innovation is as much about structuring relationships as it is about technology. By intentionally designing spaces and processes that foster collaboration, Eindhoven Engine creates conditions where ideas can be tested, iterated, and scaled faster than they would in isolation.

In essence, Eindhoven Engine is a practical blueprint for anyone looking to build responsive innovation ecosystems—and it’s precisely this approach that makes the project inspiring and relevant for our work at Next Wave Zone.

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At Next Wave Zone, we’ve been exploring small creative initiatives that reflect our vision and ecosystem at The Futures Hub.

We were especially curious about local projects with a global mindset, and we wanted to see what exists beyond the capital—beyond Amsterdam.

This curiosity led us to Sokpop Collective, a small, agile team rooted in Utrecht.

What caught our attention was their combination of art, games, and a sustainable creative model: young creators grinding with a rhythm that feels both sustainable and inspiring, while producing work that is playful, elegant, and globally resonant.

Their approach is interesting to us because it mirrors our Zebra Over Unicorn shift of focus recently and our wider ecosystem.

Sokpop’s sustainable workflow, playful experimentation offer lessons not just in creativity, but also in problem-solving and communication—methods we find worth reflecting on and potentially internalizing in our own work.

What Is Sokpop Collective Anyway?

Sokpop Collective is a four-person game studio based in Utrecht that has built a reputation for making small, experimental games at a remarkable pace.

Known for releasing a new game nearly every month, Sokpop operates more like a creative lab than a traditional studio.

Sokpop Patreon community funds this rhythm, while Sokpop Itch and Sokpop Steam bring their quirky titles to a wider audience.

What Makes Sokpop To Be Alive?

Creative Constraints as Fuel

Sokpop’s tight timelines and small-scale projects force rapid experimentation. Each game is a sandbox for mechanics, aesthetics, and storytelling, allowing the team to learn fast and iterate continuously.

Collective Spirit

The four founders—Aran Koning, Tijmen Tio, Tom van den Boogaart, and Ruben Naus—share infrastructure and ideas and develop their own games independently. This balance of autonomy and collaboration multiplies creativity while spreading risk.

Direct Community Support

Patreon subscriptions provide predictable income, keeping the team accountable to an engaged audience. Supporters get early access, behind-the-scenes insights, and a sense of co-creation.

📌 Sokpop’s Surprise Hit:

“Stacklands awarded the Best Innovation at the Dutch Game Awards and became Sokpop’s biggest success story.”

Connect with the Sokpop Collective Team:

Aran Koning

Tijmen Tio

Tom Boogaart

Ruben Naus

What Can We Learn From Sokpop?

Prototype Often, Ship Fast

Frequent, small releases drive momentum and foster creativity.

Value in Weirdness

Experimentation often uncovers unexpected hits.

Community as Co-Creators

Involving supporters strengthens both funding and loyalty.

Why We Are Watching Sokpop at Next Wave Zone?

Sokpop beyond being a quirky indie team—it’s a model for sustainable creative ecosystems.

By combining collective ownership, rapid experimentation, and community-backed sustainability, they show that innovation doesn’t have to rely on scale or massive budgets.

In a world chasing blockbusters, Sokpop reminds us that small, strange, and frequent can be the most powerful way to cultivate creativity.

Next Wave Zone Takeaway:

• For us, Sokpop exemplifies a bigger principle: rhythm and structure, not just talent, define creative success.

• By publishing often, sharing ownership, and leaning into experimentation, they offer a blueprint for creators who want freedom without chaos.

• Their model inspires reflection on how we can internalize their problem-solving and communication style into our own workflows, making our ecosystems both playful and sustainable.

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Dreamli is a creative startup based in the Netherlands that turns children’s drawings into customizable 3D paint-at-home figurine kits. Parents or educators can upload a drawing, and Dreamli’s team transforms it into a 3D model, which is delivered complete with non-toxic paints, brushes, and assembly instructions. This process turns imagination into a tangible object children can build, decorate, and treasure.

What Makes Dreamli Work?

1. Creative and Play Meet

Dreamli captures childhood creativity in a form that lasts. Kids get to build something meaningful and personal — reminding them that their ideas are valued.

2. Developmental Impact

The kits are designed to cultivate key developmental skills:

• Focus and sustained attention

• Fine motor control and coordination

• Problem-solving during the build and paint process

• Confidence boosts from seeing personal artwork realized in 3D

3. Clear, Step-by-Step Experience

Dreamli keeps things intuitive:

1. Choose a ready-made character or upload a drawing

2. Approve the 3D preview

3. Receive the kit with all materials included

4. Build, paint, and display the final model

4. Early-Stage Engagement

Dreamli is launching while it’s building — the first 20 families receive the €200 service for free in exchange for reviews and photos, helping pilot the creator experience.

What Others Can Learn from Dreamli?

• Make creativity tangible - Turning digital ideas into real-world objects deepens personal connection and engagement.

• Support developmental growth - Products that combine fun with skill-building offer more than entertainment—they nurture growth.

• Simplify the experience - A clear multi-step process (upload, confirm, receive, create) lowers barriers to engagement.

• Seed with community feedback - Early enthusiastic users—especially those offering feedback—forge stronger product foundations.

Why We’re Watching This Space at Next Wave Zone?

At Next Wave Zone, we're drawn to new ecosystem models that foster both creativity and growth from the ground up. Dreamli stands out because:

• Human-Centered Design — It’s not just a toy or tech — it’s a handheld artifact of personal creativity.

• Educational Potential — Blending play with cognitive and emotional development sets a compelling precedent for future creative tools.

• Scalable Creativity — As the platform evolves, it could extend into schools, art therapy, museum kits, and beyond, empowering any child’s idea to gain form and meaning.

In an era where screen time dominates, Dreamli reminds us of the power of making — unlocking imagination in three dimensions.

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At Next Wave Zone, we’re turning our attention to what truly matters:

👉 Small communities
👉 Niche creators
👉 Hidden initiatives

Because the future isn’t built on hype. It’s built on authenticity, sustainability, and collaboration.

🌊 Next Wave Zone — where small communities meet big futures.

#NextWaveZone #ShiftOfFocus #ZebraOverUnicorn #Futures #Communities #Innovation

No-Code Community is a hub for innovators, entrepreneurs, and makers who want to build digital solutions without traditional coding. Founded by Erwin Luijendijk in 2021, the community has grown into the go-to place for no-code tools, training, and peer support in the Netherlands and Belgium. With over 1,200 members and more than 50 online and offline sessions hosted, it offers a mix of hands-on workshops, networking meetups, and inspirational talks that empower members to turn their ideas into functional products faster than ever.

What Makes No-Code Community Work?

The magic lies in its combination of practicality and community spirit.

• Founder-led vision – mission to make tech creation accessible to everyone shapes the initiative.

• Dedicated boosters – Boosters like Ilja van Eck, Rick Bossenbroek, Ferdi Boxman, and Jan-Willem Wessels actively organize events, mentor newcomers, and bring fresh ideas into the mix.

• Tool diversity – From Webflow to Bubble, Airtable to Zapier, members are exposed to a broad spectrum of platforms.

• Accessible events – The mix of online and offline meetups ensures anyone can participate, regardless of location.

This mix of strong leadership, volunteer power, and practical outcomes is the glue that keeps people coming back.

What Others Can Learn from No-Code Community?

1. Lead with purpose – A clear mission helps attract the right people.

2. Empower volunteers – Boosters and community champions can scale reach without heavy budgets.

3. Blend online and offline formats – Hybrid communities create deeper, more lasting connections.

4. Focus on real projects – Members stay engaged when they can apply tools to tangible outcomes.

5. Tie into global trends – Position your niche community within a larger movement for relevance and growth.

🌀Why We’re Watching This Space?

At NextWave.Zone, we’re drawn to communities that democratize innovation — and this one is riding a powerful global wave. The no-code movement is breaking down barriers for creators worldwide, and in the Netherlands and Belgium, this community is leading that charge.

We’re especially curious about the intersection of no-code and AI. As AI-driven tools make automation, design, and decision-making even more accessible, the skillset and confidence this community nurtures could create a new generation of entrepreneurs — faster, leaner, and more agile than ever before.

And beyond the tools and tech, there’s the human side. Stories from members who’ve launched their first product, automated a side business, or landed a freelance contract thanks to skills learned here show us the real power of this movement.

We’ll be watching how No-Code Community evolves — and we expect it will inspire more regional communities to follow its blueprint.

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend their next conference:
Webflow Conf Watch Party Netherlands

Let’s connect!

If you want to turn your idea into reality without writing a single line of code, start here: No-Code Community.
And if you’re building a similar initiative, share it with us at Next Wave Zone — we love amplifying models that work.

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Ayca Tech is the digital corner and creative frontier of Ayça Turan, a Netherlands-based creative technologist. She merges Extended Reality (XR) design with AI-driven workflows, crafting experiences that don’t just look futuristic—they feel human-centered and emotionally resonant. At the heart of her work is a commitment to empowering individuals—transforming how we interact, imagine, and co-create in the digital age.

What Makes Ayca Tech Work?

1. Hybrid Expertise: XR + AI

Ayça Turan blends immersive technologies with intelligent systems, creating bridge spaces where the digital and physical dissolve. XR and AI converge under her direction to push beyond novelty and into meaningful narrative.

2. Human-Centered Vision

Her approach isn’t tech for tech’s sake—it’s about grounded storytelling. Whether illustrating the dynamics of a future web or designing evocative virtual environments, her vision is rooted in emotional resonance and accessibility.

3. Disciplined Experimentation

She has consistently explored emerging tools—from early adoption of platforms like DALL·E and Sora to Moonvalley—and shares these learnings openly through talks, workshops, and panels.

4. Thought Leadership & Storytelling

Through essays on Medium—like From Attention to Creation: the State of New Web—she reflects on the shift from attention economies to creator economies, exploring how meaningful connection can thrive amid digital noise.

What Others Can Learn from Ayça Turan?

• Blend disciplines intentionally: Crossovers between XR, AI, and narrative can spark unexpected innovation.

• Stay authentically human: Even speculative design works best when anchored in empathy and individual empowerment.

• Learn by doing: Experimentation, adoption of emerging tools, and public reflection build credibility and growth.

• Think beyond tech: Situating creation within social, cultural, or economic context deepens both work and conversation.

  

🌀Why We’re Watching This Space?

At NextWave.Zone, we track emerging models that redefine creative ecosystems. Ayca Tech stands out as a living example of what happens when deep technical skill meets intentional, human-first design:

• Embodied Ecosystem Building – Proving that thriving creative networks emerge from curiosity-driven, cross-disciplinary exploration rather than rigid frameworks.

• Future-Proof Practice – As creative technology accelerates, her commitment to ethical, human-sensitive workflows offers a much-needed counterbalance.

• Narrative as Infrastructure – Ayca Turan essays and projects do more than showcase technology—they frame bigger questions about how we shape, and are shaped by, our digital tools.

In an age dominated by metrics and velocity, Ayça Turan’s practice reminds us that empathy may be the most resilient infrastructure we can build for the future of creation.

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend her next hands-on session.

Creating Memory AI Art with Sora

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Founders Running Club (FRC) is global club designed to bring founders, operators, investors, and startup enthusiasts together through the simple, powerful act of running. Across cities worldwide, FRC hosts regular, inclusive runs where people from all walks of startup life connect naturally, without the pressure of formal networking or pitch sessions.

The concept is elegantly simple: founders meet, run together at a pace that suits everyone, then share coffee and conversations. This ritual creates a space where innovation flows not from conference rooms but from the open streets, shared breath, and spontaneous connection.

FRC’s inclusive philosophy welcomes all levels of runners, emphasizing community over competition. It’s a place where every stride helps build momentum—not just physically, but professionally and personally.

What Makes Founders Running Club Work?

Several factors set FRC apart as a uniquely effective community model:

• Movement as Connection: Physical movement breaks down traditional barriers. Running side-by-side encourages authentic interaction, making conversations flow naturally rather than feeling forced. Shared physical effort becomes a foundation for genuine relationships.

• Bottom-Up Organization: Local chapters are volunteer-led, often by founders or ecosystem builders, creating grassroots momentum. This decentralized structure allows FRC to scale globally while remaining deeply connected to local needs and culture.

• Inclusivity and Accessibility: FRC welcomes all levels of runners—from beginners to seasoned athletes—and even those who walk or bring their families. The focus is on participation and shared experience rather than performance or speed.

• Blurring Work-Life Boundaries: By combining wellness, community, and entrepreneurship, FRC fosters a healthier ecosystem culture. Founders get not only networking opportunities but also mental and physical refreshment, combating burnout and isolation.

• Organic Networking: Instead of forced meet-and-greets, FRC’s format promotes natural conversations during and after runs. This creates trust and authenticity, which are crucial ingredients for meaningful professional relationships.

What Others Can Learn from Founders Running Club?

FRC offers valuable lessons for ecosystem builders, startup communities, and even corporations aiming to foster connection and wellbeing:

• Design for Authenticity: People crave real connection, especially in high-pressure environments like startups. Activities that remove formal structure—like running—can unlock genuine relationships.

• Leverage Physical Experience: Community isn’t just digital or intellectual. Shared physical experiences create bonds and memories that deepen trust and belonging.

• Empower Local Leadership: Scaling a global community works best when powered by local volunteers who understand their context, making initiatives adaptable and resilient.

• Integrate Wellness into Networking: Combining wellness with professional networking addresses founder burnout and promotes sustainable growth—not just in business, but in people.

• Create Low-Barrier Entry Points: Accessibility matters. When the barrier to join is low (e.g., a casual run rather than a conference), more diverse participation is possible.

🌀Why We’re Watching This Space?

At NextWave.Zone, we look for emerging ecosystem models that embody resilience, inclusion, and innovation—beyond conventional startup accelerators and funding programs. Founders Running Club exemplifies a next wave of community-led innovation, where informal, physical, and local interactions ripple out to global impact.

FRC challenges traditional ideas of networking and ecosystem building by showing how movement and shared experience become infrastructure for connection. In a world where virtual fatigue and founder burnout are real threats, FRC’s blend of wellness, community, and entrepreneurship offers a refreshing alternative.

We’re excited to watch how this movement evolves, inspiring other ecosystem builders to rethink how we come together, support one another, and sustain momentum—not just in business, but in life.

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend their next event.

Registration

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The next wave of innovation won’t come from lone geniuses — it will emerge from interconnected founder communities, where ideas are shaped collectively long before they go mainstream.

In a world saturated with accelerators and pitch nights, few spaces truly prioritize founder-to-founder connection, continuous learning, and emotional resilience. One such space that stands out is Founders Mesh — a thoughtfully curated community that brings together founders navigating the unpredictable path of building something new.

It blends curation, structure, and peer accountability, creating a context where meaningful conversations happen — and momentum builds. Members show up for one another through themed sessions, and a shared sense of journey.

Founders Mesh is grounded in the daily work of startup life: validating ideas, managing co-founder tensions, finding early users, and staying mentally healthy through it all. Founders Mesh supports what’s now.

At Next Wave Zone, we believe strong ecosystems aren’t built from hype or access alone — they emerge from intentional spaces where founders can build trust, learn in public, and move forward together.

That’s why we’re watching Founders Mesh closely, and why we think it deserves attention from anyone exploring what the next wave of founder communities might look like.

What Makes Founders Mesh Work?

1. Structured yet flexible engagement
Unlike drop-in groups where activity fades quickly, Founders Mesh operates with a light structure that encourages rhythm. This keeps conversations meaningful and builds trust over time.

2. Shared founder mindset, not just shared industry
Rather than clustering by sector or stage, Founders Mesh attracts founders who are united by shared values: curiosity, openness, and the willingness to share in-progress thinking. This gives the space a raw honesty that’s often missing in traditional pitch-driven ecosystems.

3. Human-scale growth
The community remains intentionally small. This decision runs counter to the “scale at all costs” mindset, but it’s precisely what makes the experience intimate and effective. Relationships are not lost in noise — they deepen. For founders, this creates rare access to consistent, non-transactional peer support.

4. Pragmatic over polished
Founders Mesh prioritizes what’s real over what’s “demo-day ready.” That emphasis on showing up imperfectly makes the space safe for real growth, creative risks, and emotional resilience — all essential traits for founders.

Founders Mesh roots itself in the founder’s present-day reality: building a product, staying sane, and moving forward despite uncertainty. Strengthens daily founder practice.

What Others Can Learn from Founders Mesh?

For ecosystem builders, incubators, and even casual community hosts, Founders Mesh offers a few key lessons:

• Trust is built with rhythm, not reach. A regular cadence of interaction beats a large (but disengaged) network.

• Start small to go deep. Small groups foster accountability, vulnerability, and actual connection — not just noise.

• Design for honesty, not performance. Founders need fewer stages, more kitchens: places where they can cook messy ideas together before putting on a show.

🌀 Why We’re Watching This Space?

At Next Wave Zone, we care about what makes communities stick — and what makes founders thrive. Founders Mesh is doing both in a refreshingly human way.

We’ll be following their evolution closely, and we’re eager to see how models like this shape the next generation of founder-first spaces.

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend their next event.

Registration

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What is Agora?

The Agora Movement is a growing network of slow, meaningful gatherings — designed for founders, thinkers, creatives, and curious souls around the globe who are tired of transactional networking.

There’s no speaker, no set topic, and no pressure. Just a circle of humans, space to be real, and the magic of spontaneous connection.
Born from the idea that the best ideas don’t happen on stage — they happen in hallways, coffee breaks, and long walks — Agora is a modern campfire for today's changemakers.

📅 Upcoming Sessions

📍 05 August | 12:30–13:30 CEST | Amsterdam

📍 05 August | 18:00–19:00 CEST | Online

📍 06 August | 09:00–10:00 CEST | Online

📍 07 August | 17:00–18:00 CEST | Groningen

🔗 RSVP & info: www.JoinAgora.today
Whether you’re building a startup, shaping a new story, or just looking for a signal in the noise — Agora is where you’ll feel seen, not sold to.

#Agora #SerendipitySpace #TheAgoraMovement #Amsterdam #Groningen #FutureOfConnection #NextWaveZone #BennuCommunity #SlowConversations

📅 When: July 30 - 4:00 PM - 6:30 PM

📍 Where: Eerste Weteringdwarsstraat 107, 1017 TM Amsterdam, Netherlands

Introduction:

CryptoCanal is a dynamic Amsterdam-based collective (with hubs in Rotterdam and Zurich) that bridges the gap between crypto education, developer empowerment, and cypherpunk values. They’ve become a cornerstone of crypto scene in Europe through interactive workshops, hackathons, and privacy-focused events.
While ETHGlobal is the leading organization powering the next generation of Web3 builders through high-impact hackathons, workshops, and developer events. Since its inception, ETHGlobal has become the go-to platform for Ethereum and blockchain innovation, bringing together thousands of developers, founders, and industry leaders worldwide.

Together featuring a special edition for 10th anniversary celebration of ETH.

Why Attend?

• A special Ethereum 10th-anniversary celebration hosted by CryptoCanal & ETHGlobal, combining coworking, storytelling, and networking.

• Coworking Session (Collaborate with Web3 builders & crypto enthusiasts)

• Ethereum 10-Year Stories (Share memories & milestones)

• CryptoDrinks (Free drinks & networking; meet founders, devs, and cypherpunks)

• Open to all; whether you're a crypto veteran or just curious!

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend.

Registration

2. Founders Mesh | Sail & Scale: AI, Actually Edition | Boat Event

📅 When: July 30 - 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

📍 Where: Amsterdam

Introduction:

Founders Mesh is a global community founded in 2022 and spanning Amsterdam to Los Angeles, creating meaningful connections for startup founders and tech innovators through curated networking events. Helping founders build valuable relationships that accelerate their startup journey.

Why Attend?

• Focused Networking: Structured formats to facilitate quality interactions

• Founder-Centric: Designed by founders, for founders

• Global Reach: Events hosted in multiple tech hubs worldwide

• Unconventional Formats: From canal boat rides in Amsterdam to natural wine mixers in LA, settings are designed to break barriers

• Diverse & Inclusive: it’s a magnet for underrepresented voices in tech

• No Fluff, Just Impact: Ditch the stiff handshakes. Events prioritize raw pitches (no slides!)

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend.

Registartion

3. Snowflake + LlamaIndex Data Agent Builders Meetup Amsterdam

📅 When: July 31 - 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

📍 Where: Gustav Mahlerlaan 300-314, 1082 ME Amsterdam, Netherlands

Introduction:

A hands-on evening for AI engineers & data scientists to explore real-world data agent development hosted by LlamaIndex and Snowflake. It’s a perfect event for Developers building RAG, AI agents, or data pipelines who want actionable, engineering-focused insights.

Intro about Snowflake and LlamaIndex:

Snowflake provides a leading cloud-based data platform that enables organizations to mobilize their data with near-unlimited scale, concurrency, and performance. While LlamaIndex provides essential tools to connect your private data with large language models (LLMs). This open-source framework helps developers build performant, production-ready LLM applications with their own data.)

Why Attend?

• Cut through the hype – Learn from production-grade implementations

• Live code & demos – No sales pitches, just practical insights

• Community sharing – Lightning demos from attendees

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend.

Registration

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📅 When: Saturday, July 26 - 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

📍 Where: Vondelpark 3, 1071 AA Amsterdam, Netherlands

Introduction:

Founders Running Club (FRC) is a global movement that combines fitness, networking, and community for entrepreneurs, investors, and creatives. What started in San Francisco in 2022 has now expanded to 45+ cities across 32 countries (including Amsterdam), uniting 34,000+ members who gather weekly for runs and meaningful connections.

Why Attend?

• Run + Network: casual runs followed by coffee chats where business ideas flow as freely as endorphins.

• Inclusive & Beginner-Friendly: No competition, just camaraderie. All paces, pets, and family members welcome.

• Global Reach, Local Impact: From Amsterdam to Hong Kong, each chapter fosters a tight-knit ecosystem of founders and innovators 8.

Next Step?

Check the link below to attend.

Registration

2. Climate Coffee (Amsterdam)

📅 When: Thursday, July 31 - 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

📍 Where: Bocca Coffee, Kerkstraat 96H, 1017 GP Amsterdam, Netherlands

Introduction:

Climate Coffee is a unique gathering for founders, investors, and climate tech enthusiasts who believe in collaboration over competition. This community-driven initiative combines casual coffee chats with actionable climate solutions because saving the planet shouldn’t happen in silos.

Why Join?

• Forge Meaningful Connections: Meet like-minded innovators across climate tech, energy, and circular economy.

• Learn & Share: From fundraising to policy trends, swap insights in an open, informal setting.

• Global Mindset, Local Impact: Whether you’re building a startup or investing in one, this is your space to align profit with purpose.

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How It Works:

• Open Invite: No membership fees; just bring your ideas and enthusiasm.

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Next Step?

Check the link below to attend.

Registration

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📍 Where: RAI Amsterdam, Netherlands
(co-located with Open Source Summit Europe)

🌍 What Is AI_dev – Open Source GenAI & ML Summit Europe 2025?

It is the premier open-source Generative AI & ML Summit for developers, engineers, and ecosystem leaders. The event brings together experts to explore hands-on innovation, community collaboration, and the ethical expansion of open-source AI frameworks. It runs immediately after Open Source Summit Europe and includes keynotes, breakout sessions, solutions showcases, and coding deep dives

💡 Why It Matters to Next Wave Zone Readers?

• Open-source AI in motion: A hotspot for tracking how open-source engines are shaping GenAI and ML tools; on-device agents, NLP, CV pipelines, and MLops frameworks.

• Community-first innovation: Intentional spotlight on collaboration; no product sales pitches, just open aims for model fairness, distributed AI, and ecosystem stewardship.

• Developer signals: With 1,000+ expected attendees and globally distributed speakers, the summit is a breeding ground for signal spotting in AI startup tech and open-source talent pipelines.

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Program Highlight

• Keynotes & Sessions: Opening by Mark Collier (LF AI infrastructure) with Cern’s Ricardo Rocha 

• Tracks covered: Foundational tools, MLOps/GenOps, Reinforcement Learning, Computer Vision, Responsible AI, Edge AI

• Evening & inclusion events: Networking reception, Women & Non-Binary lunch; built for community and equity

🔎 Watch For

• Open-source momentum: Europe’s open-source-led AI penetration is surging; Linux Foundation research shows 64% of organizations now use open source for business value, with 43% citing AI/ML growth

• Frameworks & fairness: Sessions around GenAI foundation models reflect attention to ethics, transparency, and community governance.

• From developer to deployer: The event’s hands-on ethos signals open-source AI’s move from lab to product, and how startups and labs can connect

How to Engage

• Plan your days:

  • Day 1: Hands-on workshops & keynotes (inclusion & infrastructure focus)

  • Day 2: Deep-dive technical talks and community sessions

• Join equity-focused events: Attend the Women & Non-Binary lunch and inclusion mixers

• Network in the hallways: Solutions Showcase + evening receptions are signal-rich connection points

Summary

AI_dev signals an open collaboration infrastructure for the next generation of GenAI. For builders, leaders, and ecosystem-seekers, Amsterdam is the place where code meets community on the path to ethical, open innovation.

🚀 Next Step?

Check the link below for more information.

AI_dev – Open Source GenAI & ML Summit Europe 2025

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📍 Where: International Trade Centre, Hazerswoude-Dorp/Boskoop, Netherlands

🌍 What Is The Green Retail Fair 2025?

The Green Retail Fair, officially known as PLANTARIUM | GROEN‑Direkt, is Europe’s leading trade show for garden plant retail and wholesale. Held bi‑annually, with an adjacent networking-focused sample fair . This edition features an immersive “living hedge” entrance, showcasing dozens of new product introductions.

💡 Why It Matters to Next Wave Zone Readers?

• Retailer–Grower Signal: 73 % of attendees influence purchasing decisions; making this a key barometer for European horticultural supply chains.

• Innovation Hub: Over 75 new plant varieties debut here, making it a hotspot for sustainability-themed agriculture and product design conversation.

• Awards & Branding Wave: Green Retail Awards, including Best Novelty and Market Innovation, and the Green Future Hub roundtables spotlight trends in certification, retail branding, and biodiversity

🔎 Watch For

• Product Innovation Surge: With a record 75+ launches expected, the event signals maturity in sustainable agriculture solutions.

• Certification Momentum: The Green Future Hub’s focus on compliance and sustainability reflects rising regulatory emphasis.

• Retail & Supplier Dynamics: The mix of major chains and niche growers highlights multi-tiered market trends across Europe.

How to Engage

• Registration is free: for trade professionals via pre-registration.

• Do the walk-through: Enter via the hedge path to spot real-time novelties.

• Cast your vote: Join the public vote for Visitor’s Favorite.

• Attend roundtables: Certifications and branding sessions are often overlooked; vital for forward-thinking producers.

Summary

The Green Retail Fair is a fertile ground for sourcing innovation, spotting sustainability signals, and gauging retail trends. Ideal for horticulture entrepreneurs, green-tech investors, and supply chain scouts; this event offers a clear view into what’s growing next.

🚀 Next Step?

Check the link below for more information.

The Green Retail Fair 2025

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📍 Where: RAI Amsterdam, Netherlands

🌍 What Is Open Source Summit Europe 2025?

The Open Source Summit Europe is a gathering for open-source developers, community leaders, and technology architects across Europe. Held over three days in Amsterdam, it brings together cloud, Linux, embedded, security, and leadership under one roof .

This year’s theme centers on the convergence of code, community, and corporate stewardship, with hands-on sessions, mentorship, and a vibrant solutions showcase aimed at fostering sustainable open-source ecosystems.

From Linux kernels to cloud-native stacks and ethical AI tools, Open Source Summit Europe is where infrastructure-level innovation meets community action.

💡 Why It Matters to Next Wave Zone Readers?

• Infrastructure at scale – Tracks like “Cloud & Containers,” “Digital Trust,” and “Embedded Linux” reveal the foundational technologies shaping Europe’s startup and deep-tech stack.

• Policy and compliance signals – With sessions on Cyber Resilience Act implementation and open governance frameworks, the summit surfaces trends where regulation meets innovation.

• AI & open source fusion – The co-located AI_dev GenAI & ML Summit underscores how open-source tooling is driving ethical AI adoption across sectors.

Program Highlights

• Deep-Dive Tracks: Cloud & Containers, Digital Trust, Embedded Linux, Safety-Critical, and OSPO management; technical mastery combined with governance implications.

• Keynotes: Leadership from Linux Foundation, Cloud Native, and open data stewards; framing the future of collaborative development.

• Co-Located AI_dev Summit: 60+ sessions on GenAI, model fairness, and open-source AI frameworks, reflecting rapid convergence between AI and OSS.

• Solutions Showcase & Networking: Expo hall with vendor-neutral tech demos, mentoring tables, and peer group meetups. 

🔎 Watch For

• Open infrastructure roadmap: Sessions on cloud-native, open standards, and embedded systems indicate where EU digital sovereignty is heading 

• Governance heat: CRA and OSS governance sessions signal regulatory readiness and opportunity for compliance startups

• AI democratization: Emphasis on open GenAI tools shows Europe embracing transparent, collaborative AI models not locked behind proprietary walls

• Developer & community pipeline: With over a dozen tracks, including newcomer-friendly “Open Source 101,” the event reveals who’s entering and shaping the ecosystem

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How to Engage

• Register by 13 August to enjoy early-bird pricing and grab a slot at the bundled AI_dev track

• Plan your attendance: Use the Sched app; day 1 for core infrastructure, day 2 for governance & AI, day 3 for embedded systems and networking 

• Bundle your experience: Attend Solutions Showcase, stop by sponsor expo booths, and join community group dinners or mentoring sessions

Summary

The summit offers unmatched access to signals at the foundation of Europe’s tech stack; from cloud governance and embedded systems to emerging AI frameworks.

🚀 Next Step?

Check the link below for more information.

Open Source Summit Europe 2025

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📍 Where: Rotterdam, Netherlands

🌍 What Is Interspeech 2025?

Interspeech known as the world’s largest conference on spoken language science and technology. In August 2025, its 26th edition shifts to Rotterdam, with the core theme: “Fair and Inclusive Speech Science and Technology”, celebrating linguistic diversity across individuals, accents, dialects, and atypical speech. Over five days, it will host plenaries, tutorials, oral/poster sessions, a public Speech Science Festival, and satellite workshops like the Clarity Workshop on Speech-in-Noise.

💡 Why It Matters to Next Wave Zone Readers?

• Deep-tech signal – It’s where speech science intersects with deployable tech: ASR, voice biometrics, low-power speech enhancement, and multimodal systems.

• Inclusivity frontier – Focus is on under-represented languages, atypical speech, child speech, and democratized speech applications.

• Talent & research pipeline – With tutorials, mentoring, and a doctoral consortium, this is a hotspot for emerging voices in speech innovation

🔎Watch For:

• Equity-aware innovation: thematic emphasis on atypical speech, child speech, and lesser-studied linguistic communities

• Applied research momentum: universities, startups, and industry showcase breakthroughs in voice tech, like on-device enhancement and diarization challenges

• Tomorrow’s talent: mentoring, doctoral forums, and speech-pitch sessions are where future founders and academic voices emerge 

How to Engage

• Plan key sessions: focus on the public Speech Science Festival , satellite events, and ethical-inclusion themed tracks.

• Network actively: mentoring tables, blue-sky sessions, and socializing in Stadshaven Brewery party

Summary

Interspeech 2025 beside shaping voice tech, is redefining who gets heard. It signals a future where speech tech is fair, adaptive, and personally meaningful. The real question: Are you listening?

With its focus on inclusion, ethical AI, and diverse speech contexts, Interspeech 2025 showcases Europe’s speech-tech frontier. For startup scouts, deep‑tech builders, and ecosystem thinkers, it’s a must-cover signal hub.

🚀 Next Step?

Check the link below for more information.

Interspeech 2025

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📍 Where: Amsterdam (invite-only; venue TBD)

🌍 What Is Dutch EdTech Summit 2025?

On 10 October, Amsterdam opens its doors to invite only leaders shaping EdTech in the Netherlands. Expect exclusive insights from the new ecosystem report, policy signals, and curated networking.

The Dutch EdTech Summit 2025 is the Netherlands' flagship gathering for leaders in education and technology. It presents the newly released State of the Dutch EdTech Ecosystem report, followed by keynote sessions, panel discussions on innovation, the GES Awards regional showcase, and networking over aperitive.

💡 Why It Matters to Next Wave Zone Readers?

• Ecosystem signal: As the official barometer of the Dutch EdTech landscape, this summit reveals funding flow, policy priorities, and emerging product trends.

• Deep network access: Participation includes government officials, European EdTech Alliance leaders, institutional founders, and corporate delegates.

• Action-oriented insights: Launching the State of the Dutch EdTech Ecosystem report provides an invaluable snapshot of what’s working and what’s next in learning innovation.

🔎Watch For:

• New report: Offers data on investment, adoption trends, and sector maturity

• Policy & alliance insights: Participation from government and pan‑EU education bodies signals alignment with wider innovation agendas

• GES Awards spotlight: Showcases who’s scaling successfully in education tech

TimeLine:

• 12:00–15:00: Lunch & invite‑only roundtable discussions

• 15:00–18:00: Summit program report launch, panel sessions, regional award showcase

• 18:00 onward: Aperitive networking

How to Engage

• Invitation only: Available to Dutch EdTech member; request access early

• Prep read: Explore previous edition summaries to spot narrative continuity

• Maximize network: Use the roundtable and aperitive slots to connect with key decision-makers

Summary

The Dutch EdTech Summit is a curated convergence where policy, product, and growth intersect. A high-signal moment for anyone tracking Europe’s future of learning.

🚀 Next Step?

Check the link below for more information.

Dutch EdTech Summit 2025

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📍 Where: AI Innovation Center, High Tech Campus Eindhoven

🌍 What Is Fe+male Tech Heroes Monday Meetup?

On 25 August, Eindhoven’s AI Innovation Center hosts a meetup where tech meets inclusion rooted in action, not rhetoric.

Fe+male Tech Heroes Monday Meetups bring together diverse voices from tech to share insights through workshops, lightning talks, and open mic networking. Hosted by the High Tech Campus Eindhoven and powered by its 24 corporate partners, this free event empowers all genders to amplify tech visibility and inclusion.

💡 Why It Matters to Next Wave Zone Readers?

• Tech + Inclusion Signal: This meetup sits at the intersection of gender equity and emerging tech.

• Innovation District Pulse: Held in Europe’s “smartest square kilometer,” the event reflects the High Tech Campus’s role in deep-tech evolution.

• Community Pulse: Open mic sessions and partner-hosted workshops reveal what themes and voices are resonating in Eindhoven right now.

🔎Watch For:

• Tech diversity: Partners from Eindhoven’s 300+ companies highlight inclusive innovation

• Topic inference: Workshop theme clues emerging R&D trends likely AI, hardware, or biotech

• Talent & collaboration: Open mic crowdsourcing reveals who’s active, curious, and connected on campus

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  TimeLine:

• 15:30–15:40: Opening remarks introducing a partner-led workshop or lightning talk

• 15:40–16:20: Workshop (TBD) deep dive into a tech topic with practical takeaways

• 16:20–16:30: Open Mic – an opportunity for any attendee to share a tech insight or call-out

• 16:30–17:30: Informal networking over drinks; a space for personal connection and unexpected collaboration 

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  How to Engage

  • Register via Eventbrite; and cancel early if your plans change

  • Attend on time; workshop and open mic slots fill quickly

  • Come prepared; bring a question or insight for networking drinks

Summary

A model of thoughtful, inclusive innovation, this meetup blends diversity, tech insight, and ecosystem networking.

Fe+male Tech Heroes Monday Meetup is more than a diversity event. It’s a stage for the real tech conversations happening in Eindhoven’s high-tech core. Expect thoughtful signal, grounded inclusion, and future-facing connection.

🚀 Next Step?

Check the link below for Registration.

Fe+male Tech Heroes Monday Meetup August 25th

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📍 Where: Eindhoven, Netherlands

A Simple Guide to Separate Signal from Hype in Level Up Eindhoven 2025:

EVEL UP 2025 is a live pulse check on the future of deep-tech and hardware innovation. For founders and investors, the real value lies in decoding the signals hidden in keynote themes, investor chatter, and breakout collaborations. Here’s what to watch for:

1. Investor Interest: Real Demand vs. Polite Curiosity

• Signal: Investors asking specific questions about unit economics or hardware supply chains, indicates serious evaluation.

• Hype: Generic praise like "Great idea!" without follow-ups on scalability or traction.

• Pro Tip: Track which sectors dominate the Investor Café (e.g., photonics, MedTech). Recurring themes reveal market priorities.

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2. Keynote Themes: Substance vs. Buzzwords

• Signal: Talks addressing post-pivot resilience or deep-tech commercialization hurdles.

• Hype: Vague claims like "AI will disrupt everything" without use cases.

• Pro Tip: Note if speakers highlight failed experiments.
  Authentic lessons > Theoretical predictions.

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3. Startup Showcases: Traction vs. Flashy Demos

• Signal: Startups with customer pilots or university spin-outs

• Hype: Overdesigned prototypes with no revenue or testing data.

• Pro Tip: Visit booths with unexpected crowds organic interest often points to overlooked innovations.

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4. Networking: Strategic Partnerships vs. Vanity Connections

• Signal: Corporates scouting startups for joint R&D validates commercial viability.

• Hype: Collecting LinkedIn contacts without shared goals.

• Pro Tip: Prioritize the your meetings and connections.

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5. Ecosystem Trends: Lasting Shifts vs. Temporary Fads

• Signal: Hardware-AI integrations gaining investor traction year-over-year.

• Hype: Isolated "hot topics" (e.g., metaverse) with no local ecosystem support.

• Pro Tip: Compare 2024’s pain points (e.g., talent gaps) to 2025 discussions. persistent challenges = real opportunities.

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Don’t Miss Out

Join LEVEL UP 2025 to:

• Gain traction with investors and partners.

• Learn from founders who’ve navigated scaling challenges.

• Showcase your innovation in a hardware-friendly arena.

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  Book Your Tickets!

  Check the link below for registration.

  Level Up Eindhoven 2025

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