Our Programs

Forward·Inc is a Netherlands-based, internationally operating organisation devoted to helping newcomers pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions. We do this by empowering them to launch, grow, fund, and sustain their own businesses. We believe in the incredible talent of people with refugee backgrounds, their value to society, and their potential to build bridges across communities.

Forward’s programs are all offered for free, assisting aspiring entrepreneurs with everything from concept development and implementing marketing strategies to becoming pitch-ready and scaling their businesses. Forward·Inc has trained over 3000 newcomers and supported the launch of over 200 businesses.

Programs 2024-2025

Spring 2025

Spring 2025

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Fall 2025

Fall 2025

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Spring 2026

Spring 2026

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DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM

Next Cohorts:
September – November 2025
February – April 2026

*All Forward·Inc’s programs are offered for free.

THIS PROGRAM HELPS NEWCOMERS DEVELOP THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS, DIGITAL SKILLS & LOCAL CULTURE.

The Digital Entrepreneurship Program (DEP) is an 8-week online course that includes 60 hours of prerecorded video training, practical assignments and peer-to-peer learning opportunities. In addition, weekly progress meetings with their peers and Forward·Inc‘s mentors will keep participants engaged while making the content applicable to their individual business idea.

No idea is too small or too big, and getting started can be overwhelming— but we are here to help! Are you a beginner with a great idea, and need help setting your plan in motion? Join the DEP!

If you have questions about the Digital Entrepreneurship Program, please have a look at this FAQ information.

FORWARD INCUBATOR

Next Cohort: January – June 2026

*All Forward·Inc’s programs are offered for free.

THIS PROGRAM SUPPORTS ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS IN TESTING, VALIDATING AND LAUNCHING THEIR BUSINESS.

The Forward Incubator (FI) is a 5-month program for 30 highly motivated entrepreneurs. Most participants are selected from the Digital Entrepreneurship Program (DEP), but a limited number of spots are open to promising external entrepreneurs. 

In this program, entrepreneurs test and validate their business ideas, and grow their professional network, with the support of a business coach (an experienced entrepreneur) and 2 university student consultants. Participants have access to expertise from our corporate partners while attending regular workshops. 

The program concludes with the entrepreneurs presenting their ideas at our “DEMO DAY” – where a select few are awarded prizes in acknowledgement of their achievements.

Forward Incubator Draft Agreement.

GROWTH PROGRAM

Next Cohort: October 2025 – January 2026

THIS PROGRAM SUPPORTS ENTREPRENEURS IN ACCELERATING SALES, STRENGTHENING MARKETING AND GROWING THEIR CUSTOMER BASE.

The Growth Program (GP) is a 10-week program that supports entrepreneurs who are ready to scale. The GP is ideal for founders with an existing product or service who want to refine their sales strategy, strengthen their marketing, and grow their customer base.

A key component of the program is 1-on-1 mentorship, which provides tailored support from experienced professionals to help founders address their specific challenges and opportunities. With practical tools, expert advice, and a collaborative community, this program equips participants with the skills and confidence to drive sustainable growth.

INVESTOR READINESS

Next Cohort:  March – June 2026

THIS PROGRAM SUPPORTS STARTUPS IN BECOMING INVESTOR READY!

The Investor Readiness (IR) program is focused on businesses that have initial customers and a strong problem-solution fit. They are looking for a first investment opportunity ranging from 30.000 EUR – 200.000 EUR. During 2.5 months, participants work on their investor pitch, financial model, and Go-To-Market strategy. The program ends with an investor pitch event where entrepreneurs pitch their businesses to investors and members of the Forward·Inc community.

BUSINESS & START-UP BOOSTER

رنامج تعزيز الأعمال والشركات الناشئة
Business and Start Up Booster(BSB) المجّاني ١٠٠٪ عبارة عن:

  • دورة تدريبيّة عبر الإنترنت مدّتها أسبوعين.
  • تتضمّن ٣ ساعات من التدريب عبر الفيديو المسجّل مسبقًا والمهام العمليّة.
  • الإضافة إلى ذلك، اجتماعات أسبوعية مع الزملاء وموجّهي Forward·Inc.

The Dream Team

Laura Di Santolo
Co-Founder |
Managing Director

Diederick van der Wijk
Co-Founder | Head of Business
Development

Mieke

Mieke Masselink
Community &
Events Manager

Fathya Utami
Head of
Programs

Caiti Andrews

Caiti Andrews
Senior Associate
Marketing & Communicaitons

Maria Pereira
Operations, Tech &
Programs Associate

Berina0

Berina Glusac
Legal, HR & Business
Development Associate

Michelle0

Michelle Chemaly
MENA-T Expansion
Senior Associate

Niamh0

Niamh O'Driscoll
Senior Programs
Associate (DEP)

Marta@2x

Marta Pereira
Program Manager
FI

Farha@2x

Farha Abdula
Head of
Marketing

Joris@2x

Joris Amin
Impact
Manager

Stan0

Stan Russell
Fundraising &
Partnerships Manager

Haya

Haya Shamaa
Business Development
Associate

Auke0

Auke Wester
Business Development
Associate

Kelello

Kelello Tekateka
Advanced Programs
Associate

Julie

Julie Tannous
MENA-T Expansion &
Business Development Associate

Kiana0

Kiana Saidah
Advanced Programs
Associate

Dylan0

Dylan Rooney
Program Coordination
Intern (DEP)

Cairel0

Cairel Cortez
Marketing
Intern

Esra0

Esra Bolat
Business Development
Intern

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