From the first spark of curiosity at age 16 to leading a dynamic investment firm, Nick Houwen embodies the entrepreneurial spirit. His story is one defined by initiative, adaptability, and a passion for building from modest beginnings in hospitality to founding Houwen Holding LTD, a powerhouse of innovation and strategic investing.

Nick’s journey began early, driven by a desire to establish a solid financial base. His first meaningful engagement was at a catering company, where he took on roles spanning customer service, hotel reception, and kitchen support. Beyond mere tasks, these roles sharpened his people management and problem-solving abilities. Notably, he progressed into leadership positions, guiding fellow team members a clear reflection of his innate leadership capabilities.

Fuelled by ambition, Nick Houwen made the move from a small town to the vibrant city of Groningen, balancing his studies with continued work in catering. These early roles nurtured his entrepreneurial instincts, preparing him for greater endeavors.

A pivotal chapter unfolded in Blanes on the Costa Brava, where Nick leveraged his hospitality background to organize events and launch a bar during the high-demand summer season. This venture marked his first major entrepreneurial success combining operational know-how with a sharp eye for opportunity.

In 2018, armed with the confidence and insights from earlier ventures, Nick co-founded multiple companies spanning real estate, marketing, boat rentals, and industrial gases. This expansion signaled his evolution into a serial entrepreneur with a diverse and scalable portfolio.

Today, as the driving force behind Houwen Holding, Nick Houwen brings more than just capital to the table he brings experience. His equity investment team partners with startups not only by funding them, but also by offering mentorship, strategic guidance, and operational know-how. In short, they become an extension of the founding team.

Houwen Holding’s approach is industry agnostic, believing in the universal principles of success. Whether it’s industrial gases for hospitality, barrel saunas, boat charters, cutting-edge real estate, or web-based AI tools Houwen invests in ideas, not sectors.

The Portfolio: A Snapshot of Innovation

• Happy Timber: Custom barrel saunas and hot tubs designed to transform backyards into personalized wellness retreats where craftsmanship meets comfort.

• Daitabase: Pioneering the latest trends in AI and automation, helping ventures stay ahead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

• Ramdon Ltd: A best-in-class industrial gas retailer with global reach leveraging extensive market knowledge and a robust distribution infrastructure.

• Bayswater: Ultra-premium private charter experiences in Ibiza, championing personal freedom and luxury in travel.

• VastGoedKoper B.V.: Real estate investment company delivering unique properties and pioneering solutions.

• Daitable: Turning static spreadsheets into dynamic, collaborative, web-based tables—boosting productivity and modernizing data workflows.

• Xolvis: Empowering businesses through digital transformation end-to-end automation, intuitive design, and scalable consultancy.

In essence, Nick Houwen’s leadership is rooted in hands-on experience, bold strategy, and a commitment to innovation. From humble beginnings in hospitality to building a multifaceted investment group, his trajectory is inspiring. He stands out not just as a funder, but as a holistic collaborator equipping visionary founders with the tools, insights, and networks to succeed.

Nick’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship thrives when it’s grounded in real-world experience, guided by strategic insight, and propelled by a diverse and inclusive vision.