ANNE KOOLEN KNOWS WHERE SHE WANTS TO GO WITH HER STARTUP STUDENT POWER
Anne Koolen (24) runs her own startup: Student Power, based in Hengelo. Student Power is a unique job vacancy platform that brings young people and organizations together. Anne: “Our aim is to enable young people to gain experience in their field so that they will be more than just ‘book smart’, but also have practical skills.” This rising star tells us all about her plans, dreams, and ambitions.
FROM INVESTOR TO ENTREPRENEUR
Anne has been involved with Student Power since 2019. Anne: “I believed in the idea right away, and that is why I decided to invest.” In February 2021, Anne was given the opportunity to take over Student Power. She jumped at the chance. “It was a huge challenge. I have little experience and I am still a student, but I know where I want to go,” Anne says.
Anne: “At Student Power, we feel that it is important for students to develop in the best possible manner, by gaining relevant practical experience during and immediately following their education. That is why we have developed a vacancy platform that brings young people and organizations together.” Student Power does not focus exclusively on the Dutch market but has clients and candidates all over Europe.
INCUBASE MEMBER WITH SEED INVESTMENTS
In February, when Incubase celebrated its first anniversary, Anne Koolen signed up for a spot. Anne: “I see Incubase as an inspiring place where I can meet other startups, spar with business coaches, and attend interesting sessions.” Incubase members also receive a discount if they use Anne’s vacancy platform.
A lot has happened since February. Anne: “In a few months’ time, I was able to scout talent and partners throughout Europe, optimize the platform, and obtain seed investments. Currently, I am working on a comprehensive cash flow forecast that sets out our growth plan for the coming year; that is, the implementation plan to achieve those objectives.”
LEARN DURING YOUR STUDIES, APPLY IN PRACTICE
Anne has a clear mission: “Our aim is to enable young people to gain experience in their field so that they will be more than just ‘book smart’, but also have practical skills.” On top of that, Anne wants to use the opportunities offered by remote working. “If the perfect candidate lives in Spain instead of the Netherlands and he or she is able to work from there, that opens up a wealth of opportunities for employers,” Anne says.
DARE TO TAKE THE STEP
Anne has a clear message for young people who want to be entrepreneurs: “Start searching for a good team, formulate clear targets, and always ask for advice. Of course, you can’t get everything right the first time. I also make mistakes, but they are crucial to the process. In the end, you have to dare to take the plunge. The only way to get there is to just do it.”
If you have an innovative business idea and want to take it to the next level, check out our START Program. We will teach you all of the ins and outs when it comes to validating your business idea. And if you are also looking for an inspiring workplace, be sure to check out the options for obtaining a spot at Incubase!
