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
• Join the event in May
• Skill development and hands-on experience
• Be part of a supportive community
• Personal fulfillment and community impact
• Get/Deepen your volunteering experience
volunteer roles
In the months leading up to Upstream Festival, we are looking for volunteers that can support us in the following roles (more details in the application form):
Marketing & Design Support
Coordinate visuals and assist with other marketing tasks ahead of Upstream.
Side Event Partner Support
Admin support managing partner submissions of side events
Community Engagement & Outreach
Help spread the word through outreach, networking, and community engagement.
Other roles that fit your skill set: open application possible.
More roles for the week of Upstream in May will be announced Jan/Feb 2026.
