TNW (The Next Web): The Evolution of a European Tech Powerhouse
In the fast-paced world of global innovation, TNW (The Next Web) established itself as a pivotal voice for the European technology ecosystem. Based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, the organization grew from a niche news site into a multifaceted media and events brand, bridging the gap between emerging startups and established tech giants.
The Origins and Growth of TNW
The Next Web company was founded in 2006 by Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten and Patrick de Laive. While the company began its journey in 2006, the dedicated technology news website, thenextweb.com, was officially launched on June 10, 2008. The platform quickly gained traction as a reliable source for tech reporting, with its content being sourced by major global publications such as Wired, Mashable, and the Huffington Post.
The growth of the website was significant. According to co-founder Patrick de Laive, it took one year for the site to reach 100,000 monthly visitors. By June 2016, the platform's reach had expanded exponentially, attracting between 8 million and 10 million monthly visitors.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Strategic Shifts and Leadership
As TNW expanded its influence, it underwent several structural and leadership changes. A major milestone occurred on March 5, 2019, when the Financial Times acquired a majority stake in the company, integrating TNW's tech-centric focus with a globally recognized financial news powerhouse.
Leadership also transitioned in September 2021. Co-founder and former CEO Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten stepped down from his role, handing the leadership of the company to Myrthe van de Erve, who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO).
The Future of TNW Operations
Despite its historical success in media and events, TNW announced a significant strategic pivot in 2025. The organization decided to shut down its media operations and its annual series of conferences, which focused on European startups and new technology. The final conference was held in June 2025.
While the news and event sectors are closing, the company's coworking business—providing shared professional workspaces for entrepreneurs—will continue to operate.
Key Facts
- Founded: 2006 (Company); June 10, 2008 (Website).
- Headquarters: Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Owners: Tekpon (Current owner).
- Peak Traffic: 8 to 10 million monthly visitors as of June 2016.
- Major Investment: Majority stake purchased by the Financial Times in 2019.
- Current Status: Media and events closed (2025); Coworking business remains active.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Type of Site | Technology News |
| Primary Language | English |
| Founders | Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten and Patrick de Laive |
| URL | thenextweb.com |
| Commercial Status | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TNW?
TNW, or The Next Web, is an Amsterdam-based organization that operated a prominent technology news website and a series of annual conferences focused on European startups and new technology.
Who founded The Next Web?
The company was established in 2006 by co-founders Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten and Patrick de Laive.
Is the TNW news website still active?
In 2025, TNW announced the shutdown of its media operations and events, though its coworking business continues to operate.
Did any other companies invest in TNW?
Yes, the Financial Times purchased a majority stake in TNW on March 5, 2019.
Who took over as CEO from Boris Veldhuijzen van Zanten?
Myrthe van de Erve, the former COO, took over the position of CEO on September 6, 2021.