Owen Metz: Turning a graduation project into a full-time business

Could you share a bit about your experiences with BUas Startup Support? 

I studied Creative Business and during my studies I was affiliated with BUas Startup Support. I completed my Capstone project as part of the study programme with my own company as the topic; very instructive and practical too. Especially because BUas Startup Support linked me up with a coach, Tijs van Es, in my case. 

I am extremely creative and like to quickly put through my ideas. Tijs then had me think more deeply about my idea to arrive at well-considered insights. In addition, Tijs has a lot of practical experience, which I lacked as a new entrepreneur. 
 
Finally, it was so much fun to attend a number of events organised by Buss. Here I met other enterprising  students and we were able to learn a lot from each other.  

How did your entrepreneurial journey continue after graduating?  

GKR was established just after I graduated in 2023. I was a sole trader with my Metz Media Productions and worked together a lot with Noah and Stijn, who were also self-employed professionals at the time. We decided to join forces and set up a general partnership (vof) from three sole traders: the launch of GKR. It was a great step for me as I had already learned and experienced a lot as a self-employed professional and I could bring those experiences to a larger company. 

What kind of company is GKR? 

GKR is a Digital Agency, which means that we are engaged in everything within the digital professional field. Ranging from websites to (social media) campaigns to aftermovies: the sky is the limit. Together with my partners Noah van Schilt and Stijn Broeren, I work at our Takkebijsters office five days a week. 

How were your first years as an entrepreneur? 

We achieved a lot in our first year. We started out working from my living room, for example, but now we have our own office space measuring 38 square metres. We also used to work two full days a week, but recently switched to a full-time working week. 

We noticed that it was no longer possible to get through the workload in two days' time. I am also very proud to say that we have now welcomed two students doing their work placement at GKR. One of them supports web development, which is in high demand at GKR, and the other student is taking up our social media activities. So, many great experiences and steps in our first year. 

What is important for you as an entrepreneur? 

What got us through was our self-confidence and dedication. Without these two core values, it would always be difficult. At a certain point, for example, we made the choice to work 40 hours a week for GKR.  

A decision that  would not fully cover our salary at the time, since we had to (partially) give up our job on the side. Ultimately, this was the risk that got us where we are today. When your workload is overflowing, it is already too late.  

What are your (entrepreneurial) lessons learned? 

To start as early as possible. Everything you can learn and experience is an asset and that is worth much than anything else in the business sector.  Building a network is also of unprecedented value. Grab a pen and paper and note down everyone you could benefit from today or in the future. Then just send them a message. I know this can be scary, but you have the goodwill factor going for you more often than you think; especially now that you are a student. 

“Those who do not dare stand still. Take that step, embrace the unknown and grow as an entrepreneur!” 

Do you want to build your own business next to your studies or do you want to graduate with your business, just like Owen? Email [email protected] to explore your possibilities.