10K Incubator Finalist in Dutch Round of European Enterprise Promotion Awards
The Venture Centre (AUAS) 10K Incubator was a finalist in the Dutch round of the European Enterprise Promotion Awards 2025. On June 18, the team pitched in the national final—an inspiring day filled with innovative ideas from across the country. Although the grand prize was awarded to another initiative, the jury praised the 10K Incubator for delivering “the best pitch of the day,” underscoring the value of the HvA’s practice-based approach to entrepreneurship education.
It was an inspiring day full of vision and innovation. The fact that our pitch was considered the best of the day felt like an enormous recognition for what we are achieving with 10K.
10K Incubator: Empowering the Next Generation of Impact-Driven Entrepreneurs
Since 2017, the 10K Incubator has supported more than 100 student-led startups at AUAS, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurial competence. Open to all students regardless of faculty or background, the program helps transform early-stage ideas into scalable ventures. In doing so, it connects applied research, societal needs, and entrepreneurial talent.
A Science-Based Approach to Entrepreneurship Education
The program is grounded in science-based interventions that stimulate entrepreneurial behavior. Students invest around 200 hours per semester, receiving personalized coaching and engaging in a structured development process focused on creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. All activities are linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with the goal of delivering measurable social and economic impact.
From University Hallways to Societal Impact
Through the 10K Incubator, the Venture Centre fosters an inclusive, practice-based learning environment where students can test, fail, adapt, and grow—whether they aim to start a business, join an established company, or innovate within public or non-profit sectors. The program has already led to 41 still-active ventures, showcasing its long-term relevance.
A Hub for Innovation-Driven Entrepreneurship at AUAS
The Venture Centre is part of Innovation Exchange Amsterdam (IXA) and located at Studio HvA on the Amstel Campus. It acts as the AUAS hub for entrepreneurship and valorisation, connecting academic knowledge with real-world challenges through incubation, workshops, events, and partnerships with external organizations.
Read more about the 10K Incubator and how the Venture Centre supports entrepreneurial talent https://www.amsterdamuas.com/venture-centre