Hannah Boomgaarden
About Hannah Boomgaarden
Hannah Boomgaarden is a Senior Manager of Open Innovation Services with extensive experience in program management and community engagement within the startup ecosystem. She has worked with various organizations, including Plug and Play Tech Center and STARTUP AUTOBAHN, and is passionate about fostering connections and mentoring individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Work at Plug and Play Tech Center
Hannah Boomgaarden has held multiple roles at Plug and Play Tech Center, contributing significantly to various initiatives. She served as Program Director at STARTUP AUTOBAHN powered by Plug and Play from 2017 to 2022, overseeing platforms, programs, startups, community engagement, partnerships, events, and communication. In 2022, she transitioned to the role of Senior Manager Open Innovation Services, where she continues to work. Additionally, she has been involved in the establishment of new locations and program consulting in various regions, including Gothenburg, Istanbul, and London. Her role as a founding member in these locations highlights her strategic involvement in expanding Plug and Play's global footprint.
Education and Expertise
Hannah Boomgaarden holds a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Media Management from Stuttgart Media University, which she completed from 2015 to 2018. She also studied International Management at Nanyang Technological University Singapore from 2013 to 2014. Earlier, she earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Media Economics from Stuttgart Media University from 2011 to 2015. Her educational background equips her with a strong foundation in management and media, complementing her extensive experience in innovation and program management within the tech industry.
Background
Hannah Boomgaarden has a diverse professional background, with experience across various sectors, including corporate entrepreneurship, digital consulting, and startup ecosystems. She began her career at Stuttgart Media University, where she worked as a Corporate Finance & Entrepreneurship Associate. She later joined Nestlé as part of the Digital Acceleration Team, focusing on corporate entrepreneurship strategy. Her involvement with Techstars Startup Weekend as a Jury Member and Co-Organizer further demonstrates her commitment to fostering innovation and supporting startups.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Hannah Boomgaarden has facilitated over 400 pilot projects across mobility, sustainability, maritime, and IoT sectors. She has worked closely with major global OEMs, including Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Hyundai, Jaguar Land Rover, and Volvo Cars, as well as suppliers like Bosch and ZF. Her role in the Plug and Play FoundHER initiative as an ambassador and committee member reflects her dedication to promoting diversity and innovation in the tech industry. Additionally, she has contributed to various international projects, showcasing her ability to operate effectively in diverse environments.