We achieve this by making forgotten histories visible again and sharing their stories. Our projects are designed to be accessible to a broad audience, thus increasing our impact.

What does impact mean to you?

By researching and presenting overlooked or forgotten stories from the past in an accessible way, we hope to contribute to a more inclusive historical narrative. We reject the male, Eurocentric historiography that has long been dominant. The current political climate shows how deeply  conservative worldviews can be. A more inclusive historiography can provide a counterbalance to these worldviews.

How did you become part of the Humanities Venture Lab?

Since 2022, we have been renting an office at the Humanities Venture Lab (HVL). We approached the lab because we were looking for a place where VanGisteren could grow. At HVL, we found not only a physical space, but also an inspiring community of like-minded individuals. For us, it was the perfect place to allow VanGisteren to grow sustainably, partly due to HVL’s coaching and its network.

How did the Humanities Venture Lab support the development of your venture?

While we’re often the odd ones out in our field as entrepreneurial historians, the Humanities Venture Lab proved that we are definitely not alone. By bringing together like-minded entrepreneurs from the humanities, HVL forms a breeding ground for impactful ventures in the humanities. We find it important to contribute to this community, which is very meaningful to us. This community inspires and motivates us to continue making an impact with VanGisteren.

What is your best piece of advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?

Tap into your unique skills and find out what sets you apart from other ventures. Give yourself a few years to develop your idea and your organisational skills. A lot depends on discipline and structure, but also remember to take the occasional day off!