Informatietype:
Podcast
Thema:
Digital society
Unit:
High Tech Industry
1 episode
18 May 2026

Groundbreakers

In Groundbreakers, Nienke Dijkstra and Monique Schumans speak with pioneering entrepreneurs in deep tech, exploring the story behind the polished pitch decks. Through conversations about the development and application of breakthrough technologies, and the realities of entrepreneurship, the series offers a glimpse into the future and the impact these entrepreneurs are making. Along the way, it reveals the moments of luck that helped shape their journey, as well as the challenges that keep them awake at night. The entrepreneurs also share lessons for the next generation of founders. Finally, the series takes a closer look at what could be improved across the startup ecosystem as a whole. Note: this is Dutch spoken podcast.

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Episode #1: Kiki Lauwers – CEO of Thorizon

Kiki Lauwers, CEO of Thorizon, is a guest in the first episode of Groundbreakers. We learn about the challenges and complex journey of developing small modular nuclear reactors (also known as SMRs) and how she became CEO of Thorizon. The “hamster wheel” is also discussed, along with the question of what the Netherlands can learn from France when it comes to industrial policy, and where the Netherlands truly excels.

TNO Fast Track

The Groundbreakers podcast is hosted by Nienke Dijkstra, Director of Startups, Scale-ups and SMEs, and Monique Schurmans, PR at TNO. Nienke leads TNO’s Fast Track programme, which is designed to accelerate the technology development of deeptech startups and scale-ups, reduce development risks, and ultimately shorten time to market. In this way, the programme strengthens the competitive position of startups, scale-ups, and innovative SMEs.

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Informatietype:
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Informatietype:
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Informatietype:
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Startdatum:
Locatie:
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Informatietype:
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Informatietype:
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