Meet the team
Egon van Wees
Team Lead Impact Ecosystems & Program Coordinator
Egon leverages his broad experience across government and civil society to direct projects that create social impact. He co-created Amsterdam Impact and continuously seeks better ways to connect, build solutions, and spark fresh ideas within the ecosystem.
Ellen Oetelmans
Senior Strategic Advisor for Amsterdam Impact
In 2015, Ellen co-created Amsterdam Impact alongside partners from the ecosystem. Since then, she has worked to strengthen Amsterdam's impact entrepreneurship ecosystem by connecting local developments to international networks, spotting impact trends, and developing new programs.
In her free time, Ellen loves getting lost in planning beautiful trips—which she considers almost as much fun as the travel itself.
Linea Bingel
Policy Advisor for Innovation & Impact Ecosystems
Linea focuses on the transitions needed to make the economy more human-centred and sustainable. Her work ranges from ESG and impact measurement to programmes such as Boost je Buurt and Green at Heart. She also connects Amsterdam with national and international partners working at the intersection of impact, digitalisation and innovation.
Give Linea a cup of coffee and someone new to chat with, and her day is made.
You’ll often find her at one of Paradiso’s niche concerts.
Frans Heessels
Policy Advisor for Economic Affairs and Culture
Before joining the City of Amsterdam, Frans spent nearly 20 years as an entrepreneur. Since then, he has developed programmes for a wide range of groups, including young people, newcomers and impact entrepreneurs. He is currently focused on strengthening local business programs in Zuidoost, Noord, and Nieuw-West, bringing his extensive expertise to the team since May.
Frans is happiest on stage with his cover band.
Playing guitar is his passion, and Prince his undisputed hero.