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Rotterdam
21.05.2026

everything a startup needs for grOWTH

Upstream is where innovation meets community. Thousands have joined us for an electrifying blend of inspiration and collaboration. Whether you're a founder, investor or a corporate change maker, this community-driven festival is your gateway to cutting-edge ideas, meaningful connections, and endless possibilities. Save the date: May 21, 2026.

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Impact report 2025

Discover the key insights and outcomes of Upstream 2025, held from May 21-22 in Rotterdam. This comprehensive report highlights the event's significant contributions to sustainable economic growth and innovation. Featuring detailed metrics on attendance, diversity, and economic impact, the report provides a thorough analysis of how Upstream 2025 connected entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from around the world. Download now to explore the full impact and success of this transformative event.
Download full Impact report

This was Upstream 2025

3000+

attendees

You connected with over 3000 change makers who drive the transition to a digital, carbon neutral, circular and inclusive economy. Want to be one of them? Sign up to our newsletter to stay up-to-date

Community

driven

You joined a variety of side events that took place over several days and include partner-created sessions on three key topics: access to capital, markets and talent.

28

speakers

We hosted 28 inspirational talks by leading experts, founders and artists.

Speakers
2025

Check out the speakers of Upstream 2025.

all speakers
Kiki Lauwers
Thorizon, CEO
Ida Tin
Femtech Assembly, Founder Clue, Co-Founder
Elise de Reus
Cradle, Co-Founder, Partnerships
Wouter de Bruijne
ParkBee, Former CCO, RSLNC Inc, Initiator
Ferdinand Grapperhaus
Next Sense, CEO
Fonger Ypma
Arctic Reflections, Founder & CEO
Deniz Wiedhaup
Yoni, CEO
Want to get notified when speakers for 2026 are announced? Subscribe to our newsletter and be the first to know.
All speakers

Why attend?

Founders

  • Connect with other founders
  • Meet investors and corporate buyers
  • Grow and scale your business

Investors

  • Find new deals
  • Meet (co-)investors
  • Showcase your expertise

Change Makers

  • Meet the startups and scale-ups
  • Learn from other innovators
  • Highlight your impact

Program

You discovered our thoughtfully crafted main program of fireside chats, deepdives, pitches, roundtables and speed dating. And enjoyed the best of what our Dutch ecosystem has to offer at the official side events. Providing you the space to thrive and build companies that change the world for the better.

Discover program

Updates

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July 9, 2025

The Rise of Femtech: Empowering Women's Health Through Technology

Femtech emerges as a transformative force. By leveraging technology, we can address the unique health needs of women, empower autonomy over their bodies, and create a healthier society.

Read more
June 25, 2025

Insights from Ferdinand Grapperhaus at Upstream Festival: Navigating Market Pivots

During the recent Upstream Festival, Ferdinand Grapperhaus, CEO of NextSense, shared invaluable insights into the dynamics of market pivots and strategic hiring.

Read more
June 11, 2025

A Funding Perspective on the Energy Transition: Insights from Industry Leaders

Securing funding is often one of the most challenging aspects for founders. During the recent Upstream Festival, Daniel Sordi and Bertrand van Leersum shared valuable insights

Read more
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View gallery

Catch a glimpse of previous Upstream Festival editions or check out all the photos of previous editions.

2025

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2024

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2023

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2022

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2021

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Partners

Meet our partners of 2025 driving Upstream forward. Want to join forces with us and become a partner in 2026?
BEcome a partner 2026
Main Partners
Program Partners