Here’s an event I was invited to just shortly before the conference started – so there wasn’t really a chance to extend a formal invite or arrange special access, but I’m happy to share my impressions with you now.
Over the course of two days, TNW Amsterdam 2025 brought together more than 10,000 participants from the worlds of startups, investment, innovation, and technology. The conference has been running for nearly two decades and is recognized as one of the key platforms for connecting the European and global tech ecosystems.
This year’s edition was held at NDSM werf, a former shipyard in Amsterdam Noord, now transformed into a creative and tech district with a raw industrial vibe. And it was exactly this setting that added a special character to TNW – a mix of serious content and laid-back, festival energy.
🌞 Sunshine, networking, and the kind of energy you can’t script
Although Amsterdam is famous for its rainy days, this year’s TNW unfolded under clear blue skies. Thousands of umbrellas, carefully prepared by the organizers, were left unused – the city decided to shine instead.
The conference program was diverse – from panels on artificial intelligence, climate tech, and the future of work, to real startup stories, investor insights, and the Tech5 competition. Still, my personal focus wasn’t just on the content.
The true highlight for me was meeting the amazing people behind the event – especially Michael Ras and Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten, who brought a warm, personal tone to the entire experience.
🎤 Why I prefer smaller, focused events
I’ve realized that I genuinely enjoy smaller, curated events. The kind where you’re not constantly rushing from one session to another, but instead have the space and time to really connect with people – both professionally and personally.
For me, it’s not about attending every talk. It’s about the people I meet, the vibe that’s created, and the energy of the location I get to experience. When content, logistics, atmosphere, and openness all align – that’s when a conference becomes a complete experience.
💫 The kind of magic you can’t plan
Beyond the sessions and venues, what truly stays with you are the interactions that happen in between. Not all connections are scheduled – in fact, the most meaningful ones often happen naturally: in line for coffee, during informal chats, or at side events that unexpectedly turn into real opportunities.
And that’s where TNW really shines. Because in spaces like this, the right people meet at the right time.
That’s the kind of “match” you can’t plan – but a great event can absolutely make it happen.
Until the next TNW… or another conference with soul.
