I am Simona Hutkova, an International Business student in the Netherlands with a passion for entrepreneurship and strategic growth. I joined mydoobe, a German startup, as a Business Growth Strategist, where I focus on identifying investors and business partners. My host, Jan, is the founder of mydoobe, a company transforming traditional doorbells into smart, connected devices. I discovered the EYE program as an opportunity to gain hands-on startup experience while applying my skills in business development. I joined to strengthen my expertise in investor relations, market expansion, and strategic partnerships. I expected to build a strong network, refine go-to-market strategies, and gain practical knowledge in growing a tech startup. This collaboration has allowed me to actively contribute to mydoobe’s growth while learning from real business challenges.
During my EYE stay, I focused on identifying and reaching out to investors, VCs, and strategic partners. I conducted in-depth research on funding opportunities, analyzed market trends, and developed outreach strategies. I refined and improved mydoobe’s pitch deck and two-pager, tailoring them for different investor profiles. Additionally, I worked on expanding B2B and D2C strategies, creating structured plans to enter new markets. I actively participated in business development, forming connections with potential partners and investors. Collaborating with my host, Jan, I contributed to structuring growth strategies, improving sales positioning, and optimizing investor communications. The experience helped me enhance my negotiation, networking, and strategic planning skills.
Through my work at mydoobe, I gained hands-on experience in investor relations, business growth, and market expansion. I successfully identified multiple potential investors and partners, significantly strengthening my professional network. I improved my ability to craft persuasive investment proposals, conduct market research, and structure go-to-market strategies. Working in a fast-paced startup allowed me to develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a deep understanding of funding dynamics. The experience also sharpened my communication and negotiation abilities when engaging with high-level stakeholders. Looking ahead, I plan to continue supporting mydoobe’s expansion, leveraging the valuable industry connections and strategic insights I have gained through this program.
Mydoobe gave me real-world experience in business growth, investor relations, and strategic outreach. I learned how to engage investors, refine market strategies, and contribute to startup success. This experience shaped my entrepreneurial mindset and gave me invaluable skills for my future career.