volunteer
Do you want to volunteer to contribute to the success of the next edition of Upstream Festival?
Connecting startups, capital and opportunities
Upstream is where early-stage startups find capital and opportunities. Founders and investors are invited to join us to spark growth through funding opportunities, strategic partnerships and peer-learning. Upstream brings in some special focus on three industry tracks being, Port & Maritime, Health & Wellbeing, and Climate & Energy, while continuing to welcome innovations from all sectors.
Key info
Upstream 2026 will be the 7th Edition
Date: May 21 2026
Location: Van Nelle Fabriek, Van Nelleweg 1, 3044 BC Rotterdam
Tracks: Port & Maritime | Health & Wellbeing | Climate & Energy
Side events are organized by ecosystem partners across the Netherlands
Expected attendee split: 80% founders and investors, 20% other (students, attendees)
Benefits of volunteering for upstream
• Immersive networking in a high-impact ecosystem
• Skill development and hands-on experience
• Be part of a supportive community
• Personal fulfillment and community impact
• Get/Deepen your volunteering experience
volunteer roles
We have several open roles for in person volunteers for Upstream Festival taking place on May 21, 2026 at Van Nelle, Rotterdam.
Registration Support: You'd be the first point of contact with our attendees for the festival.
Speaker Runner: You’ll be greeting speakers for our main stage when they arrive at the entrance, bringing them to make-up & the break area and then bringing them to the main stage on time.
All Rounder: You can expect to help at the registration desk for a while, guide attendees to the main stage & tipi areas when we have sessions starting, checking that all main areas and stage areas are kept clean & tidy and just generally are able to jump in and support where & if needed.
Hub Manager: Setting up the Hubs – comfortable with basic tech setup and with an eye for detail to make sure after each session the room is re-set for the next session based on the room design needed each time.
Backstage Host: You’ll be guiding speakers when they arrive to sit at which artist is available, setting them up with food/drinks as needed and keeping the backstage area tidy & neat.
Volunteer Coordinator: You are comfortable getting your hands dirty by supporting other volunteering roles & tasks for short periods of time. You are also excited to contribute to our volunteer’s experience by making sure they have regular breaks & feel supported & valued!
Applications for these roles will close on Friday March 27, 2026. You can read more about the roles and apply here.
