From student to startup

Studying

You're thinking about starting your own business and want to find out if it's the right fit for you. How do you take that first step from idea to enterprise? In Breda, entrepreneurship is actively encouraged and supported. In this blog, we'll take you through what it's like to start your own company as a student in Breda, what assistance you can receive, and why this city is such a great place to turn your entrepreneurial dream into reality.

Why Breda?

Breda is the place to turn your entrepreneurial dream into reality. Breda is bursting with opportunities for startups. Think of flexible workspaces and inspiring hubs like the Triple O Campus and B’WISE. These give ambitious entrepreneurs plenty of space to grow. B’WISE, for example, is a comprehensive incubator where you can attend practical workshops on growth hacking, pitching, team building, and how to secure funding in six weeks through the Founders Academy. For more information about this kind of inspiring workspaces, read our blog.

Help for aspiring entrepreneurs

Starting entrepreneurs can get advice or seek assistance in Breda in various ways. For information, visit the site of Breda Business.
Especially for starters, there is the Business Coach Breda.

Through Breda Startup there is an active community that regularly organises workshops and networking drinks. Here you can learn from other entrepreneurs and exchange experiences.

On financial matters, Starterslift can give you a little extra support. Information about the conditions and what you need to do to qualify can be found on the site of starterslift.

Starter shops

Have you come up with an innovative and promising concept for a shop or hospitality venue in Breda? Then you might be eligible for a starter shop. You'll then have the opportunity to rent a premises in the city centre at a discount for two years, giving you the chance to test and develop your concept at lower costs. For more information, visit the website of starterswinkels.

Studying and entrepreneurship in Breda: BUas and Avans give you the space

Whether you're studying at BUas or Avans, Breda offers plenty of opportunities for students to grow as entrepreneurs. Both universities provide practical courses, mentorship programmes and networking opportunities that help you take your first steps into the world of entrepreneurship. So, you don't have to wait until after your studies; you can start working on your own startup even during your student years.

Entrepreneurship BUas

BUas offers students plenty of opportunities to develop their entrepreneurial skills, from guidance programs to inspiring networking events. With the comprehensive BUas Startup Support program (BUSS), you are supported at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey: from idea to company, with coaching, networking events, and access to funding.

BUas has integrated entrepreneurship into the curriculum. You can participate in courses and the Entrepreneurship minor, and even graduate with your own company. A unique opportunity to gain practical experience even during your studies.

Innovation Square at BUas: the perfect place for young entrepreneurs

At the BUas campus, you'll find the Innovation Square, an inspiring place where entrepreneurship and innovation come together. Here, you work among other students, startups, lecturers, and professionals from the business world. It is an open and creative space where you collaborate on exciting projects, test ideas, and always find room for new collaborations.

Participate in workshops, networking events, and projects with local companies. As a student, you can really grow your business here and make use of the support and knowledge available. This makes the Innovation Square an ideal springboard for young entrepreneurs in Breda.

International Entrepreneurship

At Avans you can participate in the International Entrepreneurship programme: a super practical exchange of 20 weeks during which you will establish your own startup together with international students. You will learn how to develop a good idea, how to create a business plan and how to present your plan convincingly.

You will take courses on topics such as online marketing, leadership, sales, finance, and working in an international environment. It’s not just about learning from books; you’ll mainly get hands-on experience. Perfect for students who dare, take initiative and enjoy working in a team.

Entrepreneurship & Retail Management

During the Entrepreneurship & Retail Management program, you learn not only how to run a business, but also do a lot of hands-on work. You work on real projects, develop new store or business concepts, and learn how to purchase products, reach customers, and successfully promote your brand in the market.

The program is very practical: you will collaborate with entrepreneurs from Breda and receive guidance from experienced coaches. This way, you start building your own network even during your studies. There is plenty of freedom to choose your own path. For example, do you want to start your own business during your studies? You can!