Innovative Minds: insights from the next generation of scientist-entrepreneurs
March 18, 2025
Photograhpy by Monika Vaskorova
Explore the journeys of UvA Researchers Tijmen Bakker, Olivier Lugier, and Ewelina Weglarz-Tomczak as they transformed their research into impactful startups. From developing solar cells and nanoparticles to creating enzyme-based treatments against Alzheimer’s, these scientists share their experiences of overcoming obstacles, securing funding, and utilizing university support in the context of becoming fellow’s in the Faculty of Impact.
Tijmen Bakker (34), founder Lightcore
“I only just made it into the first intake of the Faculty of Impact, with the lowest score of the ten participants. I had written a proposal to use transparent, coloured solar cells, which I had worked on in the lab during my PhD, to provide lighting for greenhouse farming.” […] “There is an idea and a prototype, but now comes the bridging phase: the valley of death. This is the most difficult phase for a start-up to find financing if there is no product yet, especially in the Netherlands. Only 22 percent of Dutch start-ups eventually grow into a scale-up.”
Olivier Lugier (30) founder Nano Hybrid
“I never thought I would be able to start up a company myself. In chemistry, and more generally in deep tech you need a lab with equipment, so you have to invest a lot at the beginning. It’s really a chance to have the support of the university’s ecosystem in the first year.”
“[…] I’m not too worried about the business climate in the Netherlands: that kind of thing can change again in a few years’ time, so even if I monitor it, I can’t plan for it, especially at that stage of the business.”
Ewelina Weglarz-Tomczak, founder NatInLab
“[…] I have gained more insight into entrepreneurship, business development and the steps needed to bring an innovative idea to market. The programme [Faculty of Impact. red.] helped me refine my vision, strengthen my strategic thinking and develop the skills needed to tackle challenges in the biotech industry. I also learned about the importance of networking, collaborating and effectively communicating my scientific expertise to various stakeholders, from investors to potential partners.”
Curious to read the interviews with Tijmen, Olivier and Ewelina in full? Please turn to Folia.
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