Hannah Boomgaarden

As an Open innovation Senior Manager and Team Lead at Plug and Play, I guide companies, governments, and startups globally on their innovation journeys, train stakeholders, co-developing innovation strategies and formats, and ensure measurable results through setting or realigning with them together they engine for innovation - especially for Venture Clients. As a community driver, I always prioritize culture – embracing Peter Drucker’s belief that "Culture eats strategy for breakfast."

I’ve had the privilege of developing and running the Platform at STARTUP AUTOBAHN powered by Plug and Play as Program Director, as well of setting up and managing programs across the UK, Sweden, Istanbul, and Antwerp, building the bridge between my startups and corporates. Together with global OEMs like Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, JLR, Hyundai and Volvo Cars, and suppliers like Bosch and ZF, we’ve enabled over 400 pilot projects with 350 startups in mobility, sustainability, and enterprise.

Beyond Plug and Play, I advise FoundHER, promoting innovation and diversity in tech, and volunteer with Stelp e.V. I also host or speak at conferences like IAA Mobility, Green Tech festival, and other Tech Events, sharing insights on sustainability and innovation and mentoring startups in different initiatives.

With a background in corporate, startup, research, and media sectors, I’m passionate about connecting diverse perspectives to drive something meaningful. Let’s connect and explore new opportunities together.