As part of our blog’s first issue, and in anticipation of our upcoming Pitch Event, we had the pleasure of interviewing Rik van Wieren. A standout entrepreneur with a vision for impactful change. Rik shared his thoughts on startups, pitching, and entrepreneurship. His insights, tips, and suggestions are packed with value, and we’re excited to share them with you. Enjoy!
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the idea you presented at last year’s Pitch Event?
Rik: My name is Rik van Wieren, and I’m a 4th-year student of Entrepreneurship at THUAS. I founded a medical impact startup called Core Solutions Medical, focused on empowering hospitals to embrace circularity.
The idea stems from my motto: “Standardize to Simplify.” Hospitals are overwhelmed by endless plastic varieties and there is simply no space left for another waste bin. This fundamental challenge makes it nearly impossible to establish a circular waste system. Meanwhile, the push for circularity is booming, with thousands of medical device manufacturers introducing or planning to introduce individual collection and recycling initiatives. However, this individual approach has not seemed to be scalable and introduces a great deal of complexity.
I envision true circularity for plastic medical products with no more chaos of countless plastic waste streams, but a clear and simplified collection for most products.
Imagine a ‘SuperPlastic’. It’s an innovation that streamlines circularity from collection and transport to processing and new production, due to a standardized production material. By creating a single waste stream for a wide range of used plastic products, I enable hospitals and manufacturers to make a real impact together.
Manufacturers can participate in a standardized closed-loop circular system with competitively priced material thanks to the combined volume.
Q: What do you think was the key factor that helped you win first place in the Pitch Event?
Rik: I believe it was my authenticity. I also had amazing support from my pitch coach, Irina Musuc, who helped me believe in myself and embrace my “crazy sounding” idea with full confidence.
For example, during my pitch, I made a noticeable entrance. I wore a blue wrap (sterile medical packaging product) like a superhero cape and ran into the room to capture everyone’s attention. It was unconventional, but it worked—people were intrigued and fully engaged—wondering “Who is this guy?”.
I also shared realistic numbers in a relatable way about the waste hospitals generate, a topic many people don’t think about. By clearly conveying the problem, I connected with the audience and made them care. In short, authenticity, storytelling, and problem framing were the keys to my success.
Q: How did you prepare for the pitch? And what advice would you give for making a lasting impression?
Rik: Preparation was essential. I attended pitch training sessions but also prepared independently by creating a mock-up of my pitch beforehand. This allowed me to integrate feedback effectively.
To leave a lasting impression, authenticity is critical. Think outside the box and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. For instance, my superhero cape entrance was a bold move, but it made me memorable.
Even if you’re introverted, consider unique ways to stand out. Watch videos of great pitches for inspiration—it doesn’t take long and can spark valuable ideas. And remember: most people in the audience admire your courage for being up there.
Q: How did you handle nerves or pressure during the pitch?
Rik: I’ve tried to train myself to block out negative thoughts in high-pressure situations by converting the energy of fear into excitement. It is the same physiological reaction with adrenaline. The difference is how the mind interprets the experience. Although it is quite challenging, I recognize the improvement with every new public speaking event. For me, it’s about staying focused on what I need to say and letting everything else fade away.
Furthermore, I’d advise others to keep rehearsing their story until it feels natural for others and for yourself as well.
Q: What common mistakes do you see in pitches?
Rik: One big mistake is underestimating the importance of the start and the end. Your opening sets the tone and grabs the audience’s attention. Avoid generic intros like, “Hello everyone, I’m here to pitch.” Instead, start with something surprising or engaging.
Another mistake is over-rehearsing your script word for word. Instead, focus on the message you want to get across using topics if the format allows for it. That way, you can focus on delivering your message without overthinking every word. If you have worked hard, be confident you know what you are talking about. And if you forget a word, fact or topic, the audience won’t know—it’s the message that matters.
Also, don’t stand still. Use the space around you, interact with props, and engage the entire audience, not just the judges. Props can make your pitch more interactive and memorable. For example, I used a piece of blue sterile wrap and granulated recycled material to illustrate my idea.
Q: How did winning the Pitch Event impact your entrepreneurial journey?
Rik: Winning gave me more confidence in public speaking and handling tough questions from the jury. It also opened new opportunities. For example, representatives from The Hague municipality invited me to participate in ImpactFest, where I was later selected as a finalist.
The prize money, while not huge, made a big difference for my startup. It helped me buy equipment to test hospital waste collection processes. These small investments can have a significant impact when you’re just starting out.
Q: Can you share your future plans and your goals for ImpactFest?
Rik: My immediate goal is to kickstart the system after a year of research, preparation, and networking. I’ve outlined a four-stage five-year plan to develop my company and eventually create the ‘SuperPlastic’ material. I anticipate it will take some more years before the market is ready for the implementation of the ‘SuperPlastic’, which is fine—it’s about building a solid foundation.
That foundation is stage 1 where I work towards recycling 90% of the yearly 1,3 million kilos of these blue sterile wraps generated in the Netherlands to kickstart the system.
For ImpactFest, I’m excited to gain feedback from the jury, network with like-minded individuals, and refine my public speaking skills. Winning a prize would be incredible, as it would accelerate my progress. My ultimate aim is to implement my solution in hospitals inside and outside the Netherlands and kickstart a truly circular system.
Rik van Wieren’s story is a testament to the power of authenticity, preparation, and creative problem-solving. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, his advice offers valuable inspiration. We wish him good luck in his further entrepreneurial journey!
Yesterday, our team at HSIF had the privilege of attending ImpactFest in The Hague.🚀🌍
ImpactFest offered inspiring insights into pressing global issues and the innovative solutions emerging today.✨
We joined a variety of sessions, including interesting pitching rounds that showcased impactful projects across sustainability and social innovation. Seeing so many talented entrepreneurs working toward positive change reminded us why we’re committed to supporting student-led ventures.
We left with fresh perspectives, new connections, and a renewed dedication to driving positive change. Thank you to the organizers and everyone who shared their vision with us. Excited to see where these insights lead!
Join us in continuing the momentum—HSIF is hosting our own pitch event soon! Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a supporter of student innovation, be part of the excitement. Get your ticket or become a pitcher at our event and showcase your vision for positive impact‼️
During the month of September we have had the pleasure of putting together a new HSiF Team for this academic year. Through that process, we have managed to put together an ambitious and dedicated team of individuals with diverse backgrounds, personalities and perspectives. Each one of us has settled well into their respective role and now forms an essential part of HSIF.
Get to know the members who act behind the scenes. We are thrilled to be working together and are looking forward to bringing you the most memorable events, inspiring workshops and invaluable opportunities!
Stay tuned to see what we have planned!
March 6th Pitch Event at De Haagse Hogeschool / The Hague University of Applied Sciences was an absolute thrill, showcasing the passion and innovation driving our startup community forward.
From groundbreaking ideas to fearless pitches, the energy in the room was palpable, leaving everyone inspired and ready to conquer new frontiers.
We witnessed game-changing concepts taking center stage, backed by the unwavering determination of our entrepreneurial minds. 💯
It’s moments like these that remind us why we do what we do – to push boundaries, challenge norms, and ultimately, make a lasting impact. Big thanks to our incredible juries Jordi Zoun Aditya Putta Raj Richard Versluis Jeroen Derwort and our pitchers Rik van Wieren Ties Jansema Killian Helf Berkay Uzuner Simone Vascotto Remo Roest! Your passion fuels our startup community🚀🙏🏻
Here’s to the relentless pursuit of innovation and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead!🥂
As part of the documentary “Mag ik jou iets vragen” – made by Kees Klomp and Gert Biesta in november 2023, our own Dennis Bomer gives an interview about HSiF and our contribution towards a new way of eduction.
The interview (in dutch) is published on Youtube.
In a significant development for The Hague Student Investment Fund, Jan Hendrik van der Kooij, representing HSIF, recently inked a momentous collaboration agreement with Ronald Visser, the Program Director of Entrepreneurship & Retail Management at The Hague University of Applied Sciences, and a key figure at the Centre of Entrepreneurs.
This strategic partnership is aimed at bolstering student entrepreneurship by providing crucial support in the form of funding, engaging activities, and networking events. With the combined efforts of these two institutions and their partners, a thriving community is set to emerge, dedicated to nurturing and empowering student entrepreneurs.
The signing of this collaboration marks an auspicious beginning to the year, seeking to foster an environment where student entrepreneurs can flourish and reach their full potential. If you’re interested in becoming a partner of HSIF, if you are looking for new investment opportunities, or if you are a student who would like to join our team, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@hsif.nl and start contributing to this exciting initiative!
Don’t forget to follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram too. There are numerous exciting developments on the horizon, so stay tuned for what promises to be an exceptional year ahead!
