Building Startups without Burning Out

Join us for an insightful evening with Sebastian Klein and Yasmine Van Heghe (UGent), Clovis Six (BloomUp), and Karlijn Koek (imec.istart), as we explore how prioritizing founder wellbeing can become a truly sustainable advantage for your startup.

We’ll dive into the science of stress, the psychology of resilience, and real-life tactics used by entrepreneurs to turn pressure into performance—without burning out. From heart rate variability to team dynamics, discover how small mindset shifts and smart habits can bring out both human and business potential.

Through hands-on learnings and authentic stories, our speakers will show how founders who invest in their wellbeing aren’t just surviving—they’re thriving, building high-performing teams, and creating long-term impact.

Register now to connect with peers, gain actionable insights, and be part of a forward-thinking conversation where wellbeing, business, and impact come together.

Event Program:

5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Doors Open and Welcome

6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: The science of startup wellbeing: Stress, coping & team resilience

6.30 PM- 7.30PM: Panel discussion “Building Startups without Burning Out” with:

Sebastian Klein & Yasmine Van Heghe (UGent)

Clovis Six (BloomUp)

Karlijn Koek (imec.istart)

7:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Networking over drinks & small bites

This event is free, but spots are limited—so don’t forget to register!

A word on the speakers:

Sebastian Klein & Yasmine Van Heghe: are both researchers on Entrepreneurial Wellbeing at the University of Ghent.

Clovis Six: is founder of BloomUp, dedicated to making mental wellbeing accessible for all.

Karlijn Koek: is Conflict Mediator and Team Dynamic Coach at imec.istart.

About Startup Connect:

Startup Connect is a multi-city after-work networking event series for founders, aspiring entrepreneurs, and startup enthusiasts. Each edition gathers like-minded peers & innovators to share experiences, connect with the local ecosystem, and gain valuable insights —all in a relaxed setting over drinks and finger foods.

Connect, learn, and grow with the imec.istart community!

About imec.istart

Imec.istart—imec’s business accelerator — offers tech startups pre-seed funding and tailored support to succeed and grow globally. The imec.istart program offers a variety of services, including an initial financial injection (€100-250K pre-seed funding), personal coaching and mentoring, access to technology and office space, and connection to imec’s broad international network of investors. Since its launch in 2011, imec.istart has supported more than 300 tech startups and was ranked first in the 'Top University Business Accelerators' category by UBI Global in 2023.