About the DUC East
The DUC East is part of the Dutch University Challenge (DUC), which is the largest student innovation- and entrepreneurship competition in the Netherlands.
During the DUC East: students, startups, universities (hbo & wo) and leading companies collaborate to tackle real-world societal challenges and turn ideas into impactful solutions.
The best startup from the DUC East will be nominated to compete in the national DUC Grand Final.
Join as a Startup Join as a Company Join as a StudentWhy participate?
Become part of the innovative ecosystem and expand your network!
Make an impact by solving societal or company challenges!
Find your future colleague and keep talent in the East region!
Boost your startup with a cash prize, valuable networking opportunities, and a chance to pitch on the national DUC stage!
Company Challenges
DUC East
DUC East brings together students, startups, educational institutions, and organizations to drive societal impact in the eastern region of the Netherlands.
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Student teams with their own Start ups, and individual students who would like to work on the business cases of our partners.
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Hybrid
- 29 May 2026
Help Green Boutique Make Swimming Sustainable
Green Boutique's holiday parks offer guests the luxury of a heated outdoor swimming pool at 28 °C all year round. This is an important part of their guest experience and a key differentiating feature.
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Technical students with an interest in sustainability
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Handwijzersdijk 3a, 7255 MJ Hengelo, Netherlands
- 25 Sep 2025
Help TGN|Fritom Shape the Future of Logistics!
TGN|Fritom is at a turning point. Currently focused on transport, the company is opening a brand-new warehouse and aims to become an innovative, sustainable full-service logistics provider. Think smart warehousing, fulfilment, AI, robotics, and green logistics.
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Dutch and International students with an affirmation for Logistics, Technology and Business Administration
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Botterweg 21, 8042 PA Zwolle, The Netherlands, Onsite
- 24 Sep 2025
Timeline DUC East
DUC North Innovation Day
Innovation and entrepreneurship take center stage today. The program consists of two main components:
- Company Challenges: Students and industry experts collaborate to tackle real-world challenges from leading regional companies.
- DUC North Startup Pitches: Ten nominated startups pitch their ideas to a professional jury and the audience. The winner will represent Brabant during the National DUC Grand Final.
Innovation Summits
Solving real-world challenges is the aim of the summits. Students and industry experts join forces to design, prototype and develop impactful innovations.
Do you want to work on a challenge of one of our partner companies?
Join now!National DUC Grand Final
The top 10 startups and innovations from across the Netherlands are selected to take the stage during the prestigious National DUC Grand Final.
A professional jury and an audience of industry experts, investors, educational representatives and students will determine which startup is the most impactful and crowned the winner of DUC 2026!
Go to National DUC
Soapbox Talent - Start your career
Start your career with a splash? Soapbox Talent connects you to our partner network. We will make sure you will find an internship, traineeship or first job!
Get in touch with our recruiters. It’s free and they don’t bite like a duck ;)
Contact Soapbox Talent Visit website
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