Healthy Funding returns to Rotterdam with a vibrant new 2025 edition

On Thursday, April 17, the rooftop of the Groot Handelsgebouw transformed into a dynamic hub for promising companies and investors during the new 2025 edition of Healthy Funding! This vibrant event brought together innovators and capital to spark new connections and opportunities in the Life Sciences & Health sector.

The day kicked off with a plenary session, featuring opening remarks by Ellen Smit, Managing Director of Rotterdam Square, and a speech by Jeannette Leete from the Municipality of Rotterdam. Jeannette reflected on her role as co-founder of Healthy Funding in previous years, alongside Maaike van Zuilen from Life Sciences & Health 010. With an official handover moment, Rotterdam Square proudly took over the baton, starting a new chapter for Healthy Funding with plans to host the matchmaking event annually.

Next, Sharon Mullen, Senior Account Manager at Rotterdam Square, gave a brief introduction to the organization before inviting the investors to the stage. This year flipped the script: instead of companies pitching, it was the investors’ turn to introduce themselves, offering insights into the people behind the capital and their investment perspectives.

Following a short break, eight rounds of 1-on-1 matchmaking kicked off. Seventeen investors met with a diverse group of companies at dedicated matchmaking tables, sparking inspiring conversations and laying the groundwork for potential collaborations. Meanwhile, the open networking area was filled with energy, proving just as valuable for spontaneous matchmaking.

The program wrapped up with an interactive plenary session, where Sharon Mullen was joined by two investors — Victor Straatman (4impact) and Sterre Witteveen (Holland Capital) — along with two entrepreneurs — Chris Hordijk (Surgical Reality) and Daria Kozlova (Deep Breath). Together, they reflected on the event, sharing key takeaways and personal experiences.

With its vibrant atmosphere, strong turnout, and valuable connections, Healthy Funding 2025 marked a successful continuation of a proven concept — now hosted by Rotterdam Square in collaboration with Healthy.Capital. As we take the lead, the event is set to grow into a yearly highlight for growing companies and investors shaping the future of health. We look forward to welcoming you again next year.

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