I support companies in software and agrifood with WBSO, the Innovation Box, DEI+, ERDF and related funding schemes. In addition to working with clients, I am a co-owner of Ugoo and responsible for HR and the organisational growth of the company. I combine ten years of experience in funding advice with a direct, solution-oriented approach.
Carlijn
Managing director
From Junior Consultant to Co-Owner
My career at Ugoo started as a Junior Innovation Consultant. Over the years, I progressed into a management role with responsibility for HR. In 2024, I took over Ugoo together with Benny, Maarten and Timo from its two founders. This combination of client work, leadership and organisational responsibility still shapes how I approach my role today.
My day-to-day work is a mix of two areas. As HR Manager, I am responsible for training, coaching, performance reviews, employment conditions and pensions, and I represent the management team at our Eindhoven office. I also support clients with their WBSO applications, manage projects for larger applications and coach junior colleagues throughout their projects. For project funding schemes, I regularly act as a reviewer or contribute as part of the writing team.
“ Carlijn's vision
My view on funding
Two statements come up in almost every initial conversation: “Applying for funding is a hassle” and “We probably don’t qualify anyway.” Both are understandable, but in practice, they are usually not true. With the right preparation, applying for funding doesn’t have to be a hassle, and most companies qualify for more funding schemes than they initially expect.
My approach is pragmatic, thorough and efficient. I prefer to respond to questions the same day, or let you know when you can expect a response. My goal is to take work off your hands, but I am also clear when something isn’t possible. A commitment is a commitment, and a deadline is a deadline.
10 Years of Partnership
Since 2016, I have supported Sparkles with the same point of contact. All WBSO applications over the past ten years have been fully approved, including during Q&A processes and an audit with a positive outcome. The applications have evolved alongside the organisation and RVO’s requirements, while aligning with their roadmap so the team can easily and compliantly record their hours.
Carlijn Huijsmans
Managing director
- Amsterdam & Eindhoven
Subsidies
Background
- Sectors
- Software, Agrifood
- Education
- MSc Innovation Sciences (Utrecht University)
Want to know what’s possible?
I’d be happy to explore the funding opportunities for your innovation roadmap. Feel free to get in touch for an initial, no-obligation conversation.