Ben jij klaar om échte verandering te brengen in de zorg?
Op 14 oktober organiseert Health Valley een inspirerende masterclass voor zorgprofessionals, veranderaars en innovators in zorg en welzijn in Deventer. Onder begeleiding van Elza de Haan, expert op het gebied van digitale transformatie en implementatieprocessen, duiken we in de wereld van zorgtechnologie en complexe ICT-omgevingen.
Wat leer je?
In deze interactieve sessie leer je hoe je praktijkproblemen omzet in domeinoverstijgende, concrete oplossingen. Je krijgt inzicht in:
De complexiteit van het ICT-landschap en de rol van zorgtechnologie daarin
Het perspectief van ICT-stakeholders en hoe je hun taal leert spreken
Werkbare strategieën voor implementatie en adoptie van technologische innovaties
Wat kun je verwachten?
Praktische tools om direct toe te passen in jouw organisatie
Interactieve werksessies waarin je aan de slag gaat met je eigen casus of knelpunt
Inspirerende voorbeelden en ruimte voor reflectie op jouw situatie
Informele afsluiting met borrel en netwerkmoment
Voor wie is deze masterclass bedoeld?
Voor professionals uit zorg- en welzijnsorganisaties én innovatieve ondernemers die willen bijdragen aan toekomstbestendige zorg. Deze masterclass is bij uitstek geschikt voor wie zoekt naar praktisch handelingsperspectief bij de implementatie van technologie in een complexe omgeving.
Deelname & aanmelden
Gratis voor partners van Health Valley (zorg en welzijn)
Geen partner? Geen probleem: je bent van harte welkom voor deze gratis kennismakingsmasterclass.
Op vrijdag 22 augustus 2025 nodigen wij startende ondermeners met grote dromen uit in Omnisport Apeldoorn.
Ben jij een startende ondernemer met grote dromen? Dan mag je dit niet missen. Tijdens het WK Baanwielrennen Junioren nodigen we je uit voor een inspirerende middag vol verhalen over ambitie, lef, doorzettingsvermogen en dromen najagen. Op de baan én in het bedrijfsleven.
Laat je inspireren door verhalen van ondernemers en topsporters die ooit begonnen met een droom. Net als jij!
Programma
15:00 – Ontvangst Start je middag met een kop koffie of thee en ontmoet andere dromers en doeners.
15:15 – Niels Schut, Sportunity: van idee tot impact Hoor hoe Niels zijn Apeldoornse droom tot leven bracht. Over obstakels, keuzes en de kracht van volhouden.
15:45 – Harrie Lavreysen: de ondernemer in de topsporter Wat heb je als ondernemer gemeen met een wereldkampioen baanwielrennen? Meer dan je denkt. Harrie deelt zijn verhaal over discipline, keuzes en durven gaan voor goud.
16:15 – Netwerkborrel met hapje en drankje in de Sportfoyer Leg waardevolle nieuwe contacten, deel ervaringen en vind misschien wel jouw volgende stap of samenwerkingspartner.
17:30 – Beleef het WK Baanwielrennen live Laat je meeslepen door het talent en de toekomstdromen van de nieuwe generatie wielerhelden.
Meld je aan Deelname is gratis, maar het aantal plaatsen is beperkt. Zet het in je agenda en schrijf je voor vrijdag 15 augustus in via dit formulier.
Het is weer zover: de zoektocht naar StartUpper van het Jaar 2025 is officieel begonnen! We zijn op zoek naar ambitieuze startups uit het Rijk van Nijmegen die inspireren, innoveren en écht impact maken. Misschien is dat jouw bedrijf, of misschien ken je iemand die deze titel verdient.
Vorig jaar ging Eef Lamers van Micro-Cosmos er met de winst vandoor dankzij zijn innovatieve zorgoplossing. Dit jaar zijn we opnieuw op jacht naar ondernemers die durven te dromen én te doen. Ondernemers die niet langer dan vijf jaar bestaan, al omzet draaien en klaar zijn om door te groeien.
De ‘StartUpper van het jaar 2025’ gaat naar huis met €2.500,- voor de onderneming, één jaar lidmaatschap bij Scale&Grow en natuurlijk de eeuwige roem die bij deze titel hoort.
Nieuw dit jaar is dat de drie finalisten exclusieve groeibegeleiding krijgen van Scale&Grow. Samen kijk je naar groeikansen, strategie en je rol als ondernemer in de volgende fase. Je leert van experts, wisselt ervaringen uit met andere groeiondernemers en krijgt toegang tot een waardevol netwerk. Zelfs als je de hoofdprijs niet wint, levert meedoen je dus een flinke boost op.
Wil jij meedoen of iemand tippen? Meld je vóór 1 september aan en wie weet sta jij binnenkort in de spotlight!
Pelvic organ prolapse affects millions of women worldwide, yet it remains underdiagnosed, undertreated and, all too often, undiscussed. Existing treatments such as surgery or outdated pessaries fail to meet women’s real-life needs. Saturn Pelvic Health is ready to turn the tide. With Flexsupp, the company introduces a game-changing, self-managed solution that offers personalised comfort, freedom, and dignity.
The story of Saturn Pelvic Health begins with Dr Kim Notten and Dr Mirjam Weemhoff, both seasoned urogynecologists, who had spent years treating women with prolapse complaints. Despite their dedication, the available tools simply weren’t good enough.
Traditional treatment options for pelvic organ prolapse are far from ideal. Surgery, while effective for some, carries significant risks and a high recurrence rate; up to 30% in some cases. Meanwhile, conventional pessaries are based on outdated designs, often uncomfortable, difficult to fit, and nearly impossible to manage without clinical assistance. Many women stop using them within a year due to pain, inconvenience, or loss of autonomy.
Over coffee, Kim pitched the idea of doing something radically different to Bart van Diepenbeek, an experienced CEO with a background in corporates and scale-ups. Bart was instantly convinced. “Kim explained the problem, and I immediately thought: this could really help women. This isn’t some random product; this can change lives.” With biomedical engineer Lars Boogaard by their side, the four co-founders combined clinical expertise, technical ingenuity, and entrepreneurial drive.
Designed for real life
Flexsupp isn’t just an upgrade, it’s a rethink. After more than a decade of research, the team developed a pessary that adapts to each woman’s unique anatomy. It’s fully adjustable in length and width, easy to insert and remove, and designed for home use.
The device is about the size of a large tampon and includes an inflatable balloon that offers customisable support. Insertion is straightforward, and removal is as simple as deflating the device. It’s intuitive, discreet, and restores women’s control over their daily lives.
Clinically backed, personally driven
Flexsupp is generating serious interest from both clinicians and patients. Early tests have shown a 100% success rate in comfort, usability, and overall satisfaction. The team is now preparing for clinical validation and CE certification, with the backing of major hospitals including Radboudumc and Zuyderland Medical Group.
“There’s already a waiting list of women eager to try Flexsupp,” Bart says. “We talk to these patients every day. We understand what they need because we’ve listened.”
The ripple effect goes beyond individual users. Flexsupp could significantly reduce the strain on healthcare systems—fewer fittings, up to 43% fewer referrals, and potentially up to 22% fewer surgeries. GPs could manage the process with just one device in stock, reducing specialist visits and improving access to care.
They also hope to reach more women with similar issues, convincing them to improve their quality of life. Bart explains. “Now, only 3% of women with prolapse seek help. The rest stay silent, thinking it’s just part of life after childbirth. But it doesn’t have to be.”
How Briskr helped open doors
Saturn Pelvic Health crossed paths with Briskr at just the right time. Bart describes the collaboration as hands-on and refreshingly practical. “The workshops were low-threshold but packed with insights. The pitch training helped us refine our story.”
Thanks to Briskr’s network, Saturn connected with the Business Angel Network Nijmegen and entered promising conversations with multiple investors. “Briskr doesn’t just give you a stage, they help you own it”, Bart says. “Those connections made a real difference.”
A bold plan for growth
Saturn has reached this stage through smart grant funding and years of academic collaboration. Now, the company is closing its first round of investment to fund the clinical and regulatory process. Investor interest has been strong, with a wide mix of angels and VCs recognising the product’s impact and scalability.
Bart says. “We’re focused on real impact. This is something women have been waiting for.” The team plans to launch Flexsupp in Europe by 2027, with CE certification as the first step, followed by FDA approval in the US. Because pelvic organ prolapse is a global issue, the long-term potential impact of their innovation is enormous.
Want to know more about Flexsupp and Saturn Pelvic Health? Visit their website.
How can we prepare for a rapidly ageing population, while ensuring elderly people continue to live meaningful and independent lives? Velp-based startup Op Ons Erf offers a refreshingly practical solution: a mobile senior residence that brings elderly parents closer to their loved ones, while supporting both sides with care plans, smart technology and flexible services.
The idea was born in 2023 on a car journey. Husband-and-wife duo Maarten and Anneloes van de Koevering, a tech specialist and a GP, were on a weekend getaway when the conversation turned to future plans. Anneloes floated a concept she’d been thinking about for a while. Within five minutes, the outline was there. By the end of the weekend, it had become a business plan—and a mission.
Op Ons Erf is a deeply personal venture. “We created this because it’s what we’d want for our own parents”, Maarten says. “When my mother was young, her own mother lived next door, and her aunt was just around the block. That was normal. We’ve lost that village mindset over the years. But now, with the elderly care system under stress, it’s time to bring it back.”
A home next to home
The model is as simple as it is timely: Op Ons Erf places a compact, fully equipped and ergonomic senior home on the adult child’s property. The older parent gains comfort, privacy and self-reliance. The family gets peace of mind. And crucially, care becomes something shared and manageable.
But what makes their proposition truly unique, is the subscription model. “After placement, the subscription is monthly and cancellable at any time—because when someone passes away or has to move, the last thing families need is a financial burden.” The model does not only include use of the home. Each placement includes a personalised care and wellbeing plan, developed in consultation with the resident and their family. The aim: not just to house someone safely, but to keep them active, socially connected and in control of their life.
Smart tech features
Technology plays a key role. Every home comes with a user-friendly Compaan tablet—offering everything from medication reminders and video calls to online bingo and live exercise classes. Family members can monitor tasks or help manage care remotely, making it easier to share responsibility.
The company also provides optional smart home features like motion-activated lighting, fall detectors and medication dispensers—all aimed at enhancing safety and autonomy. Services are modular and can evolve with the resident’s needs.
Solution to societal challenges
“We see Op Ons Erf as part of the solution to two major issues”, Maarten explains. “First, the housing crisis. Second, the ageing wave. The number of people over 75 is set to nearly double in the Netherlands by 2040 – and they’re being told to live independently for as long as possible. But many don’t have the resources or environment to do that well. That’s where we come in.”
This model enables what us Dutch call ‘mantelzorg’: informal care provided by close relatives or friends. It bridges the gap between professional healthcare and everyday support, helping families share responsibilities in a natural and flexible way.
From placement to guidance
Nearly one in five homes in the Netherlands (excluding apartments) have a plot large enough to accommodate a secondary home while maintaining privacy. And from 2026, national rules will ease: municipalities must allow backyard elderly housing without requiring a special permit, though each local government will apply its own policy.
Op Ons Erf also facilitates on-site installation by trusted local contractors, covering everything from placement to water, electricity and sewage. “We charge the actual costs of placement, between €6,000 and €8,000 including removal”, explains Maarten.
In line with government policies
The rental model is not only customer-friendly; it also helps convince municipalities. “Housing policy is under pressure. There’s a target to add one million new homes, and the government sees 100,000 of those coming from split homes or backyard units like ours. Leasing keeps things flexible and socially responsible.”
A potential government subsidy scheme may also help make the homes more accessible to lower-income families. “Our big goal is to make later life better—for both elderly people and their families”, says Maarten. “And that means not just housing, but connection. With the right support, it’s absolutely possible.”
From side project to scalable startup
Maarten and Anneloes realised they faced a choice: grow gradually, or aim bigger. A pitch at the Briskr BANN event helped tip the scale. “If we stay small, we help a few. But if we scale with the right partners, we can change the landscape of elderly care in the Netherlands.”
Tinnitus affects more people than you might expect – and for some, it can take over their lives. Dutch health startup Tinzo is developing a digital self-help app that provides accessible, evidence-informed support for individuals living with tinnitus and hyperacusis. For founder Koen Broos it’s a deeply personal project, and he’s determined to change the way we approach this often-overlooked condition.
Like many people with tinnitus, Koen encountered confusion and long wait times when he first sought help. “My GP told me just to learn to live with it – but I was 21 and panicking”, he says. After years of struggling with sleep, focus and stress, he eventually found a mix of therapy, information, and practical tools that helped him get back on track. “I wanted to turn that personal journey into something that could help others.”
That’s where Tinzo comes in: a digital platform designed to support people from day one of their tinnitus experience.
Three pillars: education, therapy, and community
What sets Tinzo apart is its holistic, user-centred approach. The app starts with a personal intake that maps out each user’s symptoms, challenges, and goals. Based on this profile, the app recommends exercises and neuropsychological educational content that match their specific needs.
These exercises, grounded in proven methods such as mindfulness, exposure therapy, and cognitive strategies, are curated by Rizwaan Jaggoe, a tinnitus therapist with decades of experience. A built-in community function enables users to connect, share tips and find reassurance in a shared experience. “There are already thousands of people in tinnitus-related Facebook groups”, says Broos. “So, we know the need exists.”
In contrast with to many other apps, Tinzo combines structure, expert input, and empathy. Internationally, some apps offer therapy or education, but rarely both. And there is hardly any app with a strong community aspect. Tinzo aims to offer everything in one place.
A small but complete team
Although Tinzo officially launched in April 2025, the team behind it is already well-rounded. A developer, digital designer & animator, business strategist, clinical neuropsychologist, and a practising tinnitus therapist have joined Koen in his mission. “We cover all angles – technical, commercial and clinical”, explains Broos. What began as a personal initiative quickly attracted others who believed in its potential.
The current focus is on finalising and testing the first version of the app, the MVP, with a targeted user group. The first large-scale test is set for mid-July. Based on user feedback and data, the team will refine the platform ahead of a full launch later this year.
Support from the startup ecosystem
As a young startup – “we were only ten weeks old when we pitched” – Tinzo joined the Business Angel Network Nijmegen (BANN) to seek early-stage funding. The process proved to be a valuable learning experience. “We realised we were still pre-seed: no product, no data, just a prototype and a clear vision. But thanks to the feedback, we now understand what investors need to see.”
Having clinical expert Olav Wagenaar by his side during the pitch made a considerable impact. Together, they were able to articulate both the medical rationale and the business case for the initiative. “We received a lot of praise for our duo approach – science and story, presented together.”
Briskr also played a key role in supporting Tinzo’s development. The team appreciated the trust placed in a digital health concept that focuses on a relatively niche group. Through Briskr, Tinzo connected with mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, and relevant partners.
Looking ahead: more access, better care
Tinzo’s ambitions extend well beyond simply launching an app. The aim is to offer an affordable, widely accessible alternative to current options – some of which cost hundreds to thousands of euros. By using a low-threshold subscription model, Tinzo aims to empower more people to manage their condition effectively.
In the long term, the team is preparing for B2B integration, which would enable healthcare providers to monitor patients’ progress via the app and tailor their consultations accordingly. The ultimate goal? Integration into the national healthcare system, making tinnitus support a standard part of care.
Until then, Broos and his team are working diligently towards their Q4 launch. With growing anticipation among users, they are committed to delivering a platform that offers clarity, guidance, and a sense of community. “You shouldn’t have to go through this alone – and with Tinzo, you don’t have to.”
Welke slimme keuzes dragen bij aan een veilige, efficiënte en gecontroleerde werkomgeving? Leer van experts, ontdek slimme oplossingen en verbeter je werkwijze in het lab, de cleanroom of andere gecontroleerde omgevingen.
Samen met onze partner Avantor organiseren we een interactieve workshopmiddag waarin je ontdekt hoe slimme keuzes bijdragen aan een veilige, efficiënte en gecontroleerde werkomgeving.
In korte presentaties en hands-on miniworkshops leer je hoe je met kleine verbeteringen grote stappen kunt zetten in veiligheid én procesoptimalisatie.
Van het slim gebruiken van wipes en reiniging tot het kiezen van de juiste handschoenen, van beschermende kleding tot duurzaam en foutloos labelen — én van risicobeheersing tot procescontrole: alles komt aan bod.
Een interactieve sessie vol praktijkvoorbeelden, hands-on inzichten en waardevolle uitwisseling met experts — zodat jij direct aan de slag kunt met het slimmer en veiliger inrichten van jouw werkomgeving.
Miniworkshops
WIPE SMART: Slim en effectief reinigen met wipes
Kies het juiste type wipe voor jouw toepassing
Voorkom besmetting, schade en verspilling met de juiste techniek
GARMENT SMART: Kies de juiste beschermende kleding
Tyvek of Tychem? Wat past bij jouw situatie
Correct en veilig gebruik bij chemie en contaminatie
GLOVE SMART: Handschoenkeuze en veilig gebruik
Welke handschoen past bij welk risico?
Draag ze correct én consequent
LABEL SMART: Slim en duurzaam labelen en identificeren
Label gevaarlijke stoffen correct
Verhoog traceerbaarheid, voorkom fouten
Voor wie? Laboratorium- en cleanroom professionals, kwaliteitsmanagers, veiligheidscoördinatoren, R&D-specialisten, facilitair verantwoordelijken in de life sciences-, farmaceutische en hightechsector.
Locatie Noviotech Campus, Transistorweg 5, Gebouw M, Meet&Greet, Nijmegen.
Goed om te weten De bijeenkomst wordt met name in het Nederlands gegeven ( gedeeltelijk in het Engels). Let op: het aantal plaatsen is beperkt.
Deelname aan deze workshop is gratis voor iedereen, inclusief drankjes en hapjes. Echter, voor noshow en annuleringen binnen 24 uur voorafgaand aan het evenement, brengen we een vergoeding van 15 euro (exclusief btw) in rekening om gemaakte kosten te dekken.
What’s the value of your company? By Sjoerd Klabbers, BDO Tax & Legal
Determining the value of a company is never straightforward—especially for startups. Emotions often come into play, alongside the complexity of multiple valuation methods. Without a track record, predicting future performance becomes a challenge. Yet, understanding your company’s worth is critical, particularly when external funding is the key to growth.
This part of the workshop breaks down the essentials of valuation for startups and scale-ups at any growth stage. You’ll learn how to navigate valuation methods, prepare for negotiations, and set the right conditions to secure a deal. Whether you’re gearing up to pitch to investors or planning your next funding round, this session will equip you with the tools and insights to succeed.
See through the investor’s eyes By Björn Schaap, Oost NL
The most successful deals happen when entrepreneurs and investors align their goals. But to reach this point, you need to understand what’s driving the person across the table. What do investors prioritize in a business case? What are their expectations of you now and later, as a shareholder in your company? And just as importantly, what can you expect from them?
Rather than focusing solely on getting a bigger slice of the pie, this part of the workshop emphasizes collaboration—working together to grow the pie for everyone.
Legal issues of joint ventures with investors By Maurits van Beek, BDO Tax & Legal
When entrepreneurs and investors partner, shared goals can align beautifully—but differences in approach can arise. Topics like exit strategies and decision-making between the management board and shareholders often spark challenges. This part of the workshop provides insights into these critical areas, helping you anticipate and address potential friction points. A solid understanding of these dynamics ensures smoother, more productive partnerships.
Location Noviotech Campus, building M, Transistorweg 5, Nijmegen
Good to know The workshop is facilitated in English. Participation in the workshop is free for everyone, including drinks and bites. However, for noshow and cancellations within 24 hours prior to the event, we will charge a fee of 15 euros (excluding VAT) to cover expenses.
A few days before the event we will send an email from marion.schouten@briskr.nl with more detailed info on the workshop (you might need to check your spam box).
This workshop is meant for investment seeking start-ups/ scale-ups; entrepreneurs that are either in or approaching the phase to find and contract investors. There is a maximum of 16 participants. And to prepare for this workshop we will ask you to answer some questions in advance.
Monthly IP walk-in for health & hightech entrepreneurs Are you a startup or SME in the health or hightech sector? Every month, we host a free walk-in session where you can get expert advice on Intellectual Property (IP).
Why IP matters As an entrepreneur, protecting your ideas, technologies, and brand is crucial. Whether you’re developing medical innovations, software, or high-tech devices, having a solid IP strategy can help you secure funding, attract partners, and stay ahead of the competition. From patents and trademarks to design rights and trade secrets—knowing your options can make all the difference.
Meet Rienk Rienksma – IP Advisor at RVO Rienk is an Intellectual Property advisor at the Netherlands Patent Office, part of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy. He supports startups and SMEs with questions about IP rights in the broadest sense—whether it’s patent protection, trademarks, or understanding how to safeguard your innovation roadmap.
The advice is confidential, free of charge, and completely independent—no commercial interests involved.
You’re welcome to just walk in, or if you prefer, you can make an appointment in advance.
It’s time to reconnect! Join us for a fresh edition of the SMB Network Meeting — a late afternoon dedicated to connecting, sharing, and discovering what’s next in health and hightech. Step into the future and be part of the change in Nijmegen — the city of health and hightech!
Our region is buzzing with innovative startups and scale-ups shaping tomorrow’s solutions. We invite you to exchange ideas and discover new opportunities.
Floor van de Watering will kick off the meeting by sharing how Briskr supports entrepreneurs in our thriving ecosystem, followed by short pitches by the entrepreneurs with table top stands. But most importantly, as the summer holiday season comes to an end we’ll focus on (re)connecting, sharing and growing together whilst enjoying drinks and good food!
Let’s help each other move further — faster.
Live event This event will be organized in a live setting at Noviotech Campus in Nijmegen (building M, Meet&Greet area).
Good to know Presentations are in English & the entrance is free (registration upfront is needed though). We welcome new guests, so please feel free to pass on this invitation to relevant people in your network!
Be one of the first to register for this SMB Network Meeting:
In a few minutes you will receive an email confirmation from events@smb-lifesciences.nl (you may need to check your spam messages). And a few days before the event we will send you an email from marion.schouten@briskr.nl with an updated program and practical information (directions and parking). Feel free to contact us at marion.schouten@briskr.nl should you have any questions in the meantime! We look forward to meeting you!
