Isabelle Dijkhorst: On her LaunchX startup Foundity, Unexpected Opportunities, and the Power of Human Connection

This is an article feature from the podcast episode: “‘I had to believe in myself first’: Isabelle on pitching her LaunchX startup ‘Foundity’ at WebSummit Portugal, embracing the unknown, and meeting new people.” Listen to the full episode here on Apple podcasts or here on Spotify. 

At just 18 years old, Isabelle Dijkhorst is balancing a full plate—her final year of high school, university applications, and running a rapidly growing startup. As the cofounder of Foundity, a digital platform that centralizes resources for entrepreneurs, Isabelle is redefining what it means to pursue your passion and stay grounded along the way.

The Journey to Foundity
Half Dutch, half Ukrainian, and raised in the Netherlands, Isabelle’s journey into entrepreneurship began with curiosity and creativity. Originally aspiring to be an artist, her interest shifted toward business thanks to family influence and a love for problem-solving. “I started small—making a business plan for a digital marketing idea, creating a VR concept for surgical training,” she recalls. “Then I got into more complex ideas, and I realized how much I loved building things.”

When Isabelle applied to LaunchX at Berkeley, her goal was simple: to collaborate with peers her age and take a leap into the unknown. “I didn’t know what to expect, and that’s what made it so exciting,” she shares. “Every day was a surprise, whether it was meeting mentors, learning new concepts, or connecting with my team.”

Right after LaunchX, the platform officially launched with an MVP that includes learning resources, networking tools, and an AI co-pilot for entrepreneurs. “It’s growing so quickly,” Isabelle says, her excitement palpable. “I love how it’s become a hub where people can find everything they need for their startup journey.”

The Unpredictability of Startup Life
For Isabelle, the unpredictability of entrepreneurship is what makes it so thrilling. “In the first month of Foundity, I was just open to everything. Then, a few months in, I started feeling the pressure to achieve specific goals,” she admits. “But I learned that you can’t predict everything. Sometimes, the best opportunities come when you least expect them.”

One such opportunity came when Isabelle applied to pitch Foundity at Web Summit Portugal 2024. “I thought, ‘Why not? It’ll be fun,’” she says. After being accepted, she found herself pitching to a room of sixty people, standing at her booth from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and making connections she never anticipated. “I met a software developer who introduced me to a VC company, and now we’re having ongoing conversations. It’s incredible how one introduction can change everything.”

Confidence and Connection
Reflecting on her growth, Isabelle credits Foundity and her entrepreneurial journey with boosting her confidence. “To sell your idea, you need to believe in yourself first,” she says. “Foundity has helped me feel more sure of my path. Before, my goals were broad—now, I know I want to help people with their startup journeys and bring Foundity to the world.”

Her biggest takeaway? The power of genuine human connection. “People aren’t just resources or opportunities—they’re people,” she emphasizes. “When you approach conversations with curiosity and openness, amazing things happen. Good people attract good people.”

A Bright Future
As Isabelle looks ahead, her vision is clear: to make Foundity a global platform that empowers entrepreneurs. “Having Foundity gives me a reason to wake up every day. It’s not work—it’s my passion,” she says. Her advice to fellow dreamers? “Be open to anything, anyone, anywhere. Life moves fast, and you never know what’s around the corner.”

From her humble beginnings as an aspiring artist to pitching at one of the world’s largest tech conferences, Isabelle’s story is a testament to resilience, curiosity, and the joy of building something meaningful.

Connect with Isabelle here.