Author: Jana Schneider

It’s been an exciting journey for Ivan Roy (25) and Spence van Asperdt (23), the dynamic duo behind DriveMaxy.

Meet Maxy

Ivan graduated from the MBA program in Innovation and Entrepreneurship in 2021. He came up with the idea for Maxy to improve the traditional driving school market. Ivan’s strong dedication to innovation and customer needs has been crucial to Maxy’s progress. Meanwhile, Spence is pursuing his master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence. Although early in his academic career, Spence’s passion for programming and eagerness to learn have played a significant role in shaping Maxy’s innovative platform. Together, Ivan and Spence have brought their unique skills to the table to reshape driving education.

Founded by Ivan in 2019, Maxy aims to revolutionize how students connect with driving instructors and navigate the road to obtaining their driver’s license. With its user-friendly platform, the young startup is committed to transparency and quality. In a recent catch-up, they share their trials, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned along the road to entrepreneurial success.

From Idea to Implementation

Just 10 weeks since its official launch, Maxy has already seen the first cash flow, marking a significant milestone for the team. But getting here hasn’t been without its challenges. Ivan reflects on the early days when the idea was just a spark of inspiration. “I had the idea, but no one to develop and make it happen,” he shares. That’s where Spence entered the picture, armed with a passion for programming and eager to learn. With his contributions, Maxy began to take shape, one line of code at a time.

Navigating the Startup Landscape

Learning and Growing Together

For Ivan and Spence, the journey has been as much about personal growth as it has been about business success. “We’ve learned more than we ever could have imagined,” Ivan shares. “Being part of a startup is about more than just writing code. It’s about embracing the process, embracing the journey.” Spence agrees and admits that he had to face a steep learning curve when joining the team. “I’ve grown in ways I never thought possible,” he adds. “And working alongside Ivan has been incredibly rewarding. “Their complementary skills and positive vibes have been key to navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

Facing Challenges Head-On

Of course, no journey is without its challenges. From the ultimate low of losing a key team member to the exhilarating high of launch day, Ivan and Spence have weathered it all. “It takes hard work, patience, dedication, and yes, a bit of luck,” Ivan reflects. “But we’re proud of how far we’ve come.”

Looking to the Future

With their eyes set firmly on the horizon, Ivan and Spence are ready for the next chapter of the Maxy journey. With Tilburg as their pilot city, they’re focusing on expansion nearby. Collaborating with student associations and driving schools, they’re determined to bring Maxy’s innovative approach to new markets.

Feeling Inspired to Start Your Own Business?

If Ivan and Spence’s journey with Maxy has ignited your entrepreneurial spirit and you’re considering starting your own business, Mercator Launch is here to help. Whether you need mentorship, guidance, or resources to get started, our team is dedicated to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs every step of the way. Contact us via email at or subscribe to our newsletter here to stay updated with the latest insights, events, and opportunities for startups in the Nijmegen and Gelderland region. Let’s turn your vision into reality together!

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Today, we­ shared plans for an exciting new addition: a ve­gan McDonald’s location! While this idea gene­rated interest and curiosity, this is an April Fools’ Day prank!

At Mercator Launch, we’re passionate about supporting early-phase entrepreneurship and innovative business ideas. While the vegan McDonald’s might not become reality, it highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to embrace plant-based options.

We fully support Radboud University’s mission to increase vegetarian and vegan offerings on campus, as outlined in its sustainability objectives for 2025. Embracing change and innovation is key to creating a healthier environment for everyone at the Science Park

Imagine a vegan McDonald’s as a hotspot for community gatherings! While this idea might not be coming to campus soon, the spirit of creativity and collaboration it inspired is something we’re proud of.

While you won’t be sinking your teeth into vegan McLaunches just yet, we encourage you to continue supporting sustainable initiatives and exploring new ideas that make a positive impact. Together, we can create a brighter, greener future for the Science Park and beyond.

Do you have a game-changing business idea of your own? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us here to make your innovation reality.

Meet Mathijs Buddingh’, our passionate project manager at the Science Park, a thriving hub nestled within Radboud University and Radboudumc’s green campus. Here, knowledge-intensive companies collaborate and innovate, driven by a commitment to sustainability and impactful change. With a background rooted in stewardship principles, emphasizing responsible resource management, Mathijs brings a unique perspective to his role, blending sustainability with innovation for a brighter future.

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Nature’s Influence on an Entrepreneurial Journey

Mathijs’s journey originates from a ‘green’ background in Agricultural Property Management, where stewardship principles profoundly influenced his worldview. Transitioning from real estate to municipal roles, Mathijs sought greater impact; “I wanted my talents to mean more… entrepreneurs often hold the key to the big challenges we face”. Now, as project manager at the University’s Science Park, he embraces the opportunity to contribute to an innovative entrepreneurial community.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

Mathijs points out the unique challenges of entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for swift responses and perspective maintenance. Drawing from his pandemic experience, he applauds entrepreneurs’ resilience and creativity, showcasing their capacity to collaborate, support one another, and innovate amidst adversity. “In times of crisis, creativity and positivity are crucial”, notes Mathijs, highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit’s enduring strength.

Nurturing Entrepreneurial Growth in Nijmegen

Having fallen in love with Nijmegen, Mathijs witnessed the heart of the city’s entrepreneurship – a community that cares, collaborates, and works together. Believing that entrepreneurs contribute to the city’s livability and vibrancy, he sees a bright future ahead. With the Science Park, Mathijs aims to contribute to the ongoing care and support of Nijmegen’s entrepreneurs, ensuring that their creativity continues to shape the city’s dynamic.

“The Science Park is about creating a place where entrepreneurs can come together, collaborate, and achieve their full potential.”

With a vision for the Science Park as a hub of innovation and collaboration, Mathijs outlines plans to facilitate knowledge exchange and community building. “We aim to unburden entrepreneurs and foster a sense of community,” he shares. “By bringing residents into contact with each other, we can generate business together and maximize value.”

Join the Movement

In Mathijs’s words, Mercator Launch isn’t just a space; it’s a community-driven ecosystem where starting entrepreneurs thrive. “With our services, we want to unburden entrepreneurs,” he emphasizes. “By bringing Science Park residents into contact with each other, knowledge and experience can be exchanged, and companies can generate business together.” For aspiring entrepreneurs, Mercator Launch offers more than just a physical space—it offers a supportive network, tailored resources, and opportunities for collaboration that can accelerate growth and maximize impact. So, to those considering their next entrepreneurial leap, Mathijs extends a warm invitation: “Come join us at Mercator Launch, and let’s start this journey together!”

Mathijs’s journey embodies a dedication to nature, community, and meaningful change, positioning him as a driving force in shaping Nijmegen’s entrepreneurial landscape. Through the Science Park, his vision unfolds, cultivating a vibrant community where innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial well-being thrive.

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