Utrecht-based IGNE, a venture studio and technology agency for entrepreneurs, has secured €300K in a fresh round of funding. The funds will support the Dutch startup’s strategic initiatives for future growth and enhance its efforts in social impact projects.
A strategic separation
With this raise, IGNE’s co-founder Max Tilli has completely divested his stake, exiting his shareholder position following his earlier resignation from the executive board.
Tilli played a key role in IGNE’s early-stage growth, particularly in shaping the digital product design strategy. He established an in-house design team and contributed to several IGNE ventures like Amulet, Mingly, and TimeSteps.
His departure marks a transition for IGNE, opening the way for further growth and innovation.
IGNE mentions in a statement that it will undergo a strategic shift by outlining its services between the venture studio and technology agency functions.
The upcoming website overhaul will highlight the entrepreneurial talent driving IGNE’s portfolio companies in the venture studio segment, serving as a resource hub for knowledge and guidance.
Simultaneously, IGNE’s tech agency division will focus on domain expertise, digital product development capabilities, and insights on topics such as artificial intelligence, platform ecosystems, and app development, through client partnerships on various projects.
Brief about IGNE
Founded by Jeroen van Geelen and Wiert Omta, IGNE is dedicated to innovative solutions that contribute to societal value.
The startup says, “We believe in an entrepreneurial journey where you don’t yet know where the finish line might be. Of course, we set goals, which are important to determine your course to success. But we are not afraid to deviate from course during the journey based on new insights. This makes your end product better than you could have imagined.”
IGNE’s projects span diverse areas, from helping individuals with dementia to enhancing employee personal development and improving public service accessibility.
Turning idea to Minimal Viable Product
IGNE emphasises preparation as the cornerstone of success in every collaboration. It assesses the need for additional market research, identifies opportunities, and recommends tailored solutions, including optimal tech choices.
The startup actively engages in startup hubs, training programmes, and coaching sessions to stay on top of the latest industry possibilities. It translates ideal product strategies into working solutions through short, two-week sprints, integrating user testing to enhance continuously.
By prioritising construction and user testing, IGNE develops a Minimal Viable Product (MVP). Embracing the ‘buy before build’ approach, the startup then utilises existing techniques to contribute to clients’ success.
Post-MVP launch, IGNE collaborates on further development, adapting to market changes, evolving user preferences, and gaining insights. It claims to support entrepreneurs throughout their journey, to make informed tech-related decisions and to maintain control as product owners.
When products stand independently, IGNE steps back, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on their company needs.
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