What Winning the Project Management Scholarship Means for AquaWomb’s Mission

A Challenge That Touches Lives

Every year, hundreds of babies in the Netherlands are born extremely premature. At 24 weeks, survival often comes with heavy consequences: 50–60% of children live with lifelong disabilities. By 28 weeks, that number drops to around 20%.

That gap is exactly where AquaWomb wants to make a difference. Their mission: to create a more natural alternative to incubator care — placing premature babies in an “aquaroom” with an artificial placenta that provides oxygen and nutrients, so they can continue to develop in a womb-like environment.

“Fewer tubes, fewer wires — and hopefully more calm in those very first weeks.” - Myrthe van der Ven, CEO of AquaWomb

It’s a bold idea with life-changing potential. And now, thanks to a bit of luck, it’s supported by the Project Management Scholarship from Holland Innovative.

How the Winner Was Decided

The scholarship giveaway attracted over 100 applications, with inspiring motivations and creative referral strategies. Some people referred one colleague, others up to eight! In the end, as promised, the final step came down to chance.

When the winning number was drawn, the envelope revealed the name: Myrthe van der Ven, CEO of AquaWomb.

What makes this outcome even more special: as a young start-up, AquaWomb would normally not have the budget for such an extensive training and coaching package — even though it could make a huge difference in their journey. Winning the scholarship now gives Myrthe and her team the opportunity to gain the tools and support they otherwise might have missed.

How the Scholarship Will Help AquaWomb

When asked how the scholarship will support her, Myrthe doesn’t hesitate.

“We’re a small start-up with a big mission. The science is strong, but running a company, leading a team, keeping all the stakeholders aligned — that’s a different challenge. That’s where I know we need to grow.”

For AquaWomb, the Project Management Scholarship is more than a prize — it’s a chance to gain skills and support they otherwise wouldn’t have access to. The €10,000 package opens doors to:

• Practical tools to stay focused on what really matters, even when shiny new opportunities pop up.

• Coaching and support to navigate the complex world of funders, hospitals, regulators, and future investors.

• Leadership routines that build confidence and make good project management part of daily work.

“I want to get to a point where managing these projects doesn’t feel like an extra burden, but like second nature — where we just know how to do it.” — Myrthe

For AquaWomb, that means turning vision into execution — and making sure this life-changing innovation has the best chance to succeed, meaning:

• Staying focused on the mission when shiny new opportunities arise.

• Bringing stakeholders together — from funders and regulators to hospitals and future investors.

• Building routines that make good project management second nature.

Shared Challenges for Every Project Manager

While Myrthe's project is extraordinary, her challenges are not. Most project managers — whether in high-tech, healthcare, or industry — struggle with the same questions:

• How do I keep my team aligned?

• How do I balance short-term pressure with long-term goals?

• How do I make project management feel natural instead of an extra burden?

That’s where the Project Management Masterclass comes in. It’s not about theory for theory’s sake. It’s about equipping leaders like Myrthe — and like you — with practical tools, coaching, and habits that make complex projects manageable and impactful.

A Moment to Celebrate

When the call came through, Myrthe admits she was “flabbergasted.”

“I was at the office and thought: this can’t be real. Super happy we can make a leap forward with this.” 

And yes — we gave her official permission to celebrate. Because celebrating milestones is also part of good project management. 

Looking Ahead

Winning the scholarship is only the beginning. When asked where she hopes to be a year from now, Myrthe is clear:

“I want to feel confident in how we run our projects — knowing exactly who to involve, when, and how. Not as something extra I have to think hard about, but as a natural part of how we work.”

For AquaWomb, that means not just advancing the science, but building the project management muscle to carry a groundbreaking idea all the way to impact.

Your Turn

Our next Project Management Masterclass starts soon. Just like Myrthe, you can gain the clarity, tools, and confidence to lead projects that make a real impact.

👉 Secure your seat for the upcoming edition.
👉 Or schedule a short consultation to see if this Masterclass fits your role and context.

P.S. If you’re tackling a high-impact project right now — this is your sign. Don’t wait for luck. Build the skills that will carry your vision forward.