Navigating the Quantum Frontier in the Netherlands
A Journey with Alexandra Pinto Castellanos of Hoursec
Step into the world of Alexandra Pinto Castellanos, a physicist and entrepreneur originating from Colombia. Despite her recent arrival in the Netherlands just a year ago, she has already made a significant impact on the nation’s semiconductor and quantum computing industries with her innovative venture, Hoursec.
Alexandra’s case for the Netherlands
Initially lured by Europe’s first quantum computer built in Delft, Alexandra saw the Netherlands as the ideal hub for Hoursec. The country’s strategic location, access to a skilled workforce, and the Quantum Delta initiative make it a fertile ground for companies targeting the quantum computation market. The semiconductor landscape here offers not just advanced technology but also an expansive network that’s crucial for business growth.
“Thankfully, there are places like the Netherlands where we can focus on innovation and science.”
Smoothing the transition: from Switzerland to Rotterdam
For any startup, geographical relocation can be a complex puzzle. Hoursec initially sprouted its roots in Switzerland but soon felt limited by the country’s resources in the quantum field. Alexandra’s careful analysis made it clear: the Netherlands was the better fit. Rotterdam, with its grants for data centers and a keen focus on sustainability, became their city of choice.
“As the perfect marriage of business development opportunities and sustainable practices,” she comments.
“As the perfect marriage of business development opportunities and sustainable practices,” she comments.
“People in the Netherlands are generally relaxed and laid-back, making it easy to have a good time here.”
An efficient and sustainable future: Hoursec’s vision
Hoursec is no ordinary player in the semiconductor industry. It aims to reduce computational processes from hours to mere seconds, thereby also slashing energy consumption by an astonishing 3000 times. These advancements align seamlessly with the Netherlands’ eagerness for sustainability and data privacy. Hoursec is not just accelerating computations; we’re pioneering an era where efficiency, sustainability, and privacy converge.
Building connections and creating memories
Alexandra has not just been immersed in circuits and quantum theories. She’s also been exploring the Netherlands’ natural landscapes and its relaxed, yet intellectually stimulating social fabric. Whether it’s cycling through scenic routes or participating in the annual King’s Day celebration, Alexandra enjoys the balanced Dutch lifestyle. People in the Netherlands are generally relaxed and laid-back, making it easy to have a good time here.
Looking Forward: Scaling Horizons
While Hoursec is keen on expanding globally depending on investment scenarios, Alexandra confirms that the Netherlands will remain their operational core. Hoursec might venture into other countries, but the foundation here is too robust to shift the base.
Conquer your fears: Alexandra’s advice
If you’re contemplating a move to the Netherlands, Alexandra has some words of encouragement. “The first step might seem daunting, but once you’re here, the country offers a supportive ecosystem. Don’t hesitate to reach out and seek advice; you’ll find that people are willing to guide you,” she recommends.
Original article was published on Welcome to NL.
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