Last month, startup Spontickets, sprung from Almere-based company Concode, won the Startup Hero Journey 2024 final as an innovator in the world of ticketing. Founder Ryan Mekelenkamp, along with his co-founder Arjen Guichelaar, participated in this program developed by UPALMERE! The startup has developed a tech-driven platform to lower barriers to social and cultural activities, allowing people to spontaneously attend sold-out events by making unused tickets accessible.
Spontickets allows users to get last-minute tickets for events. The platform links to box office systems of theatres, pop venues, cinemas and festivals, allowing these providers to quickly make unused capacity available at lower prices. This way, seats not sold in advance are still accessible to a target group that might otherwise be out of their reach. A great way to make cultural and social experiences accessible to all.
Challenges and opportunities in the ticketing industry
Spontickets overcame a number of key challenges during the program. One of the biggest hurdles was developing a platform that is not only user-friendly, but also easy to integrate with providers' existing POS systems. This makes the platform accessible and attractive to event organisers. The insights from the Startup Hero Journey allowed the team to clarify that their focus is on making sold-out events accessible and enhancing the experience for visitors. The launch of the platform in the near future promises many new opportunities and has already attracted a lot of attention.
Growing towards national and social success
The startup first wants to test and further develop the platform extensively in Flevoland, with plans for national and international expansion. The tech platform aims to allow users to easily discover spontaneous events in their region, without complicated conditions. By increasing the accessibility of activities, Spontickets aims to strengthen social cohesion while reducing wasted tickets.
Support and outlook Startup Hero Journey 2025
Taking part in the Startup Hero Journey has played an important role in Spontickets' development. Through the journey, Ryan gained valuable insights not only in improving the business model, but also in strengthening the pitch. The program helped Spontickets refine the idea and make the concept viable, ready for launch.
Are you an ambitious (early-stage) startup and want to become the new Hero of 2025? In 2025, the Municipality of Almere (UPALMERE!) is organising the program for the third time, specially designed to take innovative enterprises to the next level. Interested?
