Venture Centre
From idea to Impact in 20 weeks
Have an idea—big or small—that could change the world? The 10K Incubator is your space to develop it. For 20 weeks, you'll get personal coaching, expand your network, and masterclasses. Watch the video to learn more.
What is 10K?
The 10K Incubator Program is a dynamic 20-week journey designed for AUAS students from all fields of study. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or someone with a creative idea, this program helps you turn your concept into a tangible, impactful startup. You’ll receive personalized coaching, participate in hands-on masterclasses, and join a community of like-minded individuals—all while building your network and gaining real-world entrepreneurial skills. From refining your idea to pitching it to a live audience, the 10K program is your chance to make a difference.
What you'll get
- Coaching from real entrepreneurs: You’ll work with coaches who are actively building their own ventures. They’ll help you shape your idea and build a long-term roadmap for your startup.
- Bi-weekly masterclasses & workshops: Join sessions led by industry experts, founders and investors. You’ll explore everything from testing ideas to storytelling and making an impact.
- Grow your network: Meet inspiring speakers, attend events, and connect with a wide mix of students, professionals, and innovators from different fields.
- A supportive community: You’ll be part of a diverse, welcoming group of students from across AUAS—each bringing unique ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives.
- Skills for your future: Creative thinking, collaboration, resilience, leadership—real-world skills that go beyond any classroom.
Who can join?
The 10K Incubator is open to curious, creative, and impact-driven students who are ready to turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. To apply you should be:
- A full-time AUAS student (Bachelor’s or Master’s) OR an AUAS alum (graduated within the last 2 years)
- OR a full-time student at another university or applied sciences school in Amsterdam
- Working solo or in a team (up to 5 people—3 is ideal!)
- Bringing an idea that tackles a real-world problem in a new or innovative way
- Motivated to make positive impact, linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals
We are looking for ideas that are:
- Rooted in a clear problem, with an innovative solution
- Aimed at a real audience you understand
- Scalable and impact-focused (SDG related)
- Built on in-house knowledge or skills—no dropshipping or hands-off businesses
- Still in early stages: no need for a finished product or business model yet!
If you're selected, you'll become a 10Ker, that means:
- Committing 8+ hours per week for 20 weeks, including bi-weekly masterclasses
- Being active and engaged: coaching sessions, peer feedback, and two public events (Feedback Night + Dragon’s Den)
- Setting and working toward meaningful milestones
- Reflecting on the ethical and societal value of your idea
- Being open, collaborative, and ready to learn
Program Timeline
The 10K Incubator runs for 20 weeks, starting with an intensive week to kick things off. Every other Wednesday, you’ll join sessions with expert-led masterclasses, peer feedback, and coaching. Highlights include the Feedback Night and the Dragons Den
| Date | Session |
|---|---|
| Sept 15th–18th, 2025 | Intensive Week |
| Oct 1st, 2025 | 10K Wednesday #1 |
| Oct 15th, 2025 | 10K Wednesday #2 |
| Oct 29th, 2025 | 10K Wednesday #3 |
| Nov 12th, 2025 | 10K Wednesday #4 |
| Nov 26th, 2025 | Feedback Night |
| Dec 10th, 2025 | 10K Wednesday #5 |
| Jan 7th, 2026 | 10K Wednesday #6 |
| Jan 21st, 2026 | 10K Wednesday #7 |
| Jan 28th, 2026 | Dragon’s Den |
Want to join the next generation of 10K?
Are you eager to develop your idea into a real solution with the support of an inspiring community? The 10K Incubation Program is open to curious, creative, and impact-driven students ready to commit to 20 weeks of building their startup.
Here is how to apply:
-
Check if you’re eligible
Review our criteria to see if 10K is the right fit for you and your idea. -
Fill in the application form
Start your journey by submitting the application form. -
Introductory chat
If you qualify, we’ll invite you for a short conversation to get to know you and your idea better. -
Download & refine your Application Deck
After the chat, if you're excited to continue, download the 10K Application Deck here. Want to boost your chances? Reach out to Carmen Been (c.been@hva.nl) for feedback before you submit. -
Submit your final deck
Send your final Application Deck to 10k@hva.nl. -
Confirmation
We’ll send you an email to confirm we received your deck. -
Review & feedback
Our admissions committee will evaluate your deck based on the criteria. You’ll receive personal feedback and find out if you’ve been accepted into the program.
Still unsure if 10K is right for you?
Let’s talk! You can share your questions or doubts during the introductory chat after filling out the form.
Do you have a question?
Contact us
- 10K Incubation program
- 10k@hva.nl(opens in new window)