S2 - Hardware is hard

Grégoire de Hemptinne reveals how Shayp uses real-time data to tackle one of the world's most overlooked sustainability problems: water loss. He reflects on finding product-market fit in a slow-moving industry, using storytelling to scale climate tech, and building the partnerships and persistence needed to create systemic change in how cities, companies, and households manage water. 

Christina Hadinoto shares how she transformed personal insecurities into Contour Lab, an AI-powered fashion platform helping people feel confident in their own skin. She reflects on female entrepreneurship, tackling the flaws of traditional fashion systems, and building a mission-driven team creating impact in an industry overdue for change. 

Senne Bonnaerens explains how OnTracx evolved from biomechanics research into a health-tech startup tackling running injuries through data and movement science. He shares the realities of spinning out from university labs, building a balanced founding team, and transforming academic knowledge into a product that empowers athletes and prevents injuries at scale. 

Niki De Schryver shares how COSH! is transforming fashion through transparency, circularity, and verifiable sustainability data. She opens up about the resilience required to scale a mission-driven company, translating consumer behavior to measurable impact, and navigating the realities behind making an entire industry more accountable — far beyond surface-level sustainability claims. 

Rosanne Warmerdam explains how HealthBlocks is reinventing preventive health through data ownership, behavioral science, and community-driven motivation. She explores how healthier habits are built, why gamification can effectively nudge behavior, and what it takes to design technology that empowers individuals while safeguarding their privacy — all while leading a purpose-driven startup focused on long-term impact.  *Audio note: There's a bit of room reverb in this episode — but the insights are worth it.

In this new episode, we highlight the importance of strategic funding, team dynamics, and the evolving role of investors in supporting startup growth, with insights from our three phenomenal guests: Kris van der Berck (imec.istart Future Fund), Isabelle Tenstedt (Seeder Fund), and Tim Clijmans (DEO.care).    Discover key insights on:  • Balancing ownership and external funding  • The risks of large funding rounds  • The impact of macro-economic influences on investment  • The importance of building a strong, cohesive team    Guests:      Isabelle Tennstedt (Seeder Fund) Kris Vandenberk (imec.istart Future Fund) Tim Clijmans (DEO)    Host: Maarten Weyn

Ever wondered how a simple idea blossoms into a booming SaaS business? Our latest podcast episode handles all about that!   We invited Lore Aerts (Yeat) and Gilles Mattelin (Henchman) and Smartfin's seasoned investor, Thomas Depuydt to share their keen insights and experiences.     This one's for you if you'd like to know more about the intricate web of scaling operations, customer engagement, strategic decision-making and much more. And because even the most advanced AI can't replace the human touch, we examine the art of balancing tech and human interaction to keep customers smiling. Furthermore, we dissect the perfect timing and approach to capture the interest of investors who bring more than just money to the table.   Guests:   Lore Aerts (Yeat)  Gilles Mattelin (Henchman)  Thomas Depuydt (Smartfin)      Host: Maarten Weyn

Networking is more than exchanging business cards—it's about creating lasting connections that fuel growth. This episode unravels the power of networking through the eyes of portfolio founders Rutger Bevers (Conversation Starter), Gérôme Vanherf (La Grand Poste), and Christina Hadinoto (ContourLab).  Learn more about strategies for overcoming obstacles with a strong network, the importance of creativity in problem-solving, and ways to leverage media and contacts for success. Guests: Rutger Bevers (Conversation Starter) Gérôme Vanherf (La Grand Poste) Christina Hadinoto (ContourLab)   Host: Maarten Weyn

In the 10th  imec.istart podcast episode, we dive head first into the highs and lows of hardware innovation. Portfolio founders Michael Broes (Moonbird) and Senne Gorris (Hippo Dx)  share why exactly hardware is hard.    Topics include:     ▸ why the integration of hardware and software is a complicated love affair  ▸ avocados, stress balls and undesired prototype designs  ▸ the importance of having an "unfair advantage"  ▸ the thrilling world of certification hurdles,     and so much more ...  Guests:   Michael Broes (Moonbird)  Senne Gorris (Hippo Dx)   

In this podcast episode, we explore strategies for navigating "hype markets". Imec.istart portfolio founders Jen Rossey of Lopos and Tiebe Parmentier of Tekst.ai share their perspectives. Lopos, a spinoff from the University of Ghent and imec, initially concentrated on ultra-wideband technology for precise distance measurement. However, they made a pivotal shift during the COVID-19 pandemic, developing wearable devices for promoting social distancing. Tekst.ai specializes in natural language processing (NLP), streamlining inbound customer emails to enhance response times by categorizing and routing messages efficiently.  Topics of this conversation include pricing models, the art of pivoting, the significance of adaptability, and establishing meaningful connections with investors. They underscore the value of feedback and customer satisfaction, the growth potential of the AI market, ongoing technical development, and the vital role of mentorship within the startup community.  Your host: Maarten Weyn