Driving positive change with innovation, human-centered design, and creativity
Nienke Nijholt’s expertise lies in research and innovation. Engaged with Mission Reuse, she employs innovation, policy, and campaigning to reduce the most problematic packaging waste streams. She is also involved with our Circular Mobility (THRUST) program, applying her skills to help the operations of the Dutch Rescue Brigade transition into zero-emission.
Her love for innovation started during her university days — a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design Engineering and a Master’s in Strategic Product Design from TU Delft. Her interest in social enterprises was sparked during her time at a social enterprise in India. Since then, she has gained experience as a consultant at several (digital) innovation agencies.
That’s why tackling the fuzzy first phase of the innovation process comes easy to Nienke. She uses behavioral research, human-centered design, and lean startup methodologies to dive into complex issues, identify areas of opportunity, generate ideas, and develop and validate new concepts.
Nienke takes her innovation skills quite seriously, so much so that she uses them to build her own furniture. In fact, half of her home interior pieces are handcrafted. Oh, she needs her daily dose of adventure — be it CrossFit, kite surfing, diving, or riding her bike.