Builders Studio
Industry Focus
Geographic Focus
Builders Studio is a Rotterdam-based startup studio founded in 2020 by experienced tech entrepreneurs Michael van Lier and Sharon Klaver, focused on partnering with bold founders to build stellar enterprise AI and software companies from day zero and beyond. Originally started as We Are Builders (a corporate venture builder) in 2015, the studio transitioned to an independent model in 2020 to be part of every step of the venture-building process from validation to scaling. Builders specializes in the future of work, building B2B SaaS companies that solve real-world challenges and transform the daily grind into a joy for millions with magical solutions powered by almost human-like intelligence. The studio operates with a proven venture methodology using a stage-gated model that accelerates time to market while reducing risk and maximizing startup success. Annually, Builders connects with 2,000+ founders, and around 12 join as Entrepreneurs in Residence. During an 18-month residency journey, founders work closely with the studio team to validate, shape, and launch companies using proven playbooks. Builders has closed a €4.5M studio funding round and provides €150K initial investment over 12 months plus ongoing hands-on support from the studio core team. The studio pioneered the CTO in Residence program with 4-6 CTOs working on prototypes and technical deep dives, creating a unique dual residency model that connects business and technical co-founders. Builders retains around 30% equity at spin-out, positioning itself as a true co-founder from spark to exit. The studio is financed by successful earlier exits of the founders and has built multiple companies including Obeyo, Influentials, and others, with notable exits like IPS acquired by Total Webhosting Solutions.
2020
7 Companies
2
3X Higher