Norrsken Amsterdam’s CEO on the race to open new hub for impact startups
12 feb. 2026
06:52
Norrsken has tapped Dutch entrepreneur Thijs van der Burgt to lead its new Amsterdam hub – which is due to open in the summer.
We spoke with the founder about his big startup exit, his search for a new career, and how things are progressing at the new hub. We also discussed the selection criteria for future tenants – and why one defence tech startup who applied was given a firm 'no thanks'.
We spoke with the founder about his big startup exit, his search for a new career, and how things are progressing at the new hub. We also discussed the selection criteria for future tenants – and why one defence tech startup who applied was given a firm 'no thanks'.
For almost two years, Norrsken Foundation, one of Europe's largest impact investors, has been quietly preparing a site in Amsterdam for its next startup working hub.
Announced in December, 'Norrsken Amsterdam' will house some 1000 tech entrepreneurs and investors at Van Gendt Hallen, a historic industrial building owned by Bugaboo founder Eduard Zanen.