Join the challenge now!
The Erasmus University Challenge is back! Do you have an entrepreneurial idea, startup, or just the drive to make impact? This is your chance to join a vibrant community of changemakers, connect with industry partners, and compete for prizes, coaching, and career opportunities.
The Erasmus University Challenge is the university’s first introduction to entrepreneurship, offering a platform for students to explore innovation and business development. This competition is open to all students from all universities - Bachelor, Master, PhD, and PDEng - who are eager to turn their ideas into reality.
As Erasmus University President Annelien Bredenoord said: “The university not only offers added value in education and research but also serves as a hub for entrepreneurship. Ideas and innovations born out of the Erasmus University Challenge create a real, lasting impact on society.”
In 2025 we helped hundreds of students improve their entrepreneurial skills. This year we are looking for the next innovative startup idea. More than just a competition, the Erasmus University Challenge is your platform to grow, pitch your ideas, and make a difference!
Register now for the Erasmus University Challenge 2026.
Register nowJoin a unique boat trip through Rotterdam – aboard the Nieuwe Maze!
Step aboard the ‘Nieuwe Maze’, the official representative vessel of the Port of Rotterdam, for an unforgettable cruise through Rotterdam. This iconic Port Cat catamaran has welcomed tens of thousands of guests, including heads of state, government leaders, and members of the Royal Family.
Now, for a limited time, the Port of Rotterdam is giving participants of the Erasmus University Challenge the exclusive opportunity to experience this legendary ship firsthand!
Date: March 24 Time: 15:45 – 18:00Don't miss your chance to network and enjoy a unique Rotterdam harbor experience aboard a vessel that has hosted VIPs worldwide.
Winners of the Erasmus University Challenge 2025
Ideation Award
Prototyping Award
Start-up Award
Why should you participate?
Showcase your idea or startup and let your entrepreneurial journey begin!
Connect and interact with the network and attend workshops and fun events.
Grow both your idea or startup and yourself personally.
Achieve new insights, skills, connection and various prizes!
Business cases get inspired and help partners with their challenges.
Career and internship opportunities with our partner network.
Prizes
Start-up Award
€5.000,-
Prototyping Award
€4.000,-
Ideation Award
€3.000,-
Besides these prizes you can win the audience award (€1000,-) and many more such as co-working spaces, professional coaching to support further developing your idea and a year of free drinks!