Venture Center HvA: newest generation of regenerative entrepreneurs
As part of Global Regeneration Week 2025, the Venture Centre HvA organised Beyond Zero: Student Startup Day. The event explored how entrepreneurship can move beyond sustainability and become truly regenerative. The students prove that regeneration starts with curious minds and the courage to act.
Innovative start-ups present!
With inspiring talks from Patagonia, Kumasi Drinks, and MycoFarming, and a showcase of innovative food startups including Buggy Bites, Favamole, and Dehiro, the day brought together students, founders, and changemakers to learn, connect, and experience what regeneration looks like in practice.
From purpose to action
The morning program set the tone. Sandra Figueira from Patagonia shared how the company’s mission is centred on protecting the planet, challenging students to rethink what success means in times of climate crisis. Bas Rogaar invited participants to reflect on their personal Why and connect purpose to action through interactive exercises. Juan Cruz Tubio, founder of MycoFarming, inspired with his story of using fungi to clean polluted soils and water, showing that scientific innovation and entrepreneurship can work hand in hand.
We noticed that the many positive and interested responses gave us a huge boost in motivation to take our company even further.
Tasting the future
During the networking lunch, participants experienced how food innovation can drive regeneration. Several impact-driven food startups presented their products, including a former 10K Incubator team. From insect-based protein snacks to plant-based tempeh jerky made from local soy, students saw how creativity can transform the food system.
Want to learn more about the Venture Centre?
Or feel free to reach out to program manager Daniela Redondo Vélez: d.redondo@hva.nl