Shahpour started his career in Iran, where he worked on complex systems for the oil, gas, and steel industries. With a background in electrical engineering and industrial automation, he quickly realized that much of what he had learned at university didn’t apply to his daily work: “Only 10% of what I learned was actually applicable in the real world. The rest I taught myself through online courses, books, and hands-on experience. I started sharing that knowledge online, and to my surprise, it gained a lot of attention.” What started as educational YouTube videos on industrial automation quickly evolved into RealPars.

The decision to establish his company in the Netherlands wasn’t random. “Historically, the Netherlands has been a trading nation with strong infrastructure and an open attitude towards new ideas. It was a logical choice. Through couch surfing, I built friendships with Dutch people who introduced me to the culture. Through the Startup Visa program and with support from the Erasmus Centre for Entrepreneurship (ECE), I took the next step. Thanks to this network, I found investors, business partners, and a community that supported my venture.”

RealPars is now a successful platform with a global reach. The team consists of members in the Netherlands, Ireland, and the U.S., and the company collaborates with major players like Siemens and Phoenix Contact. “We started with just a few hundred euros in monthly revenue. Now we generate €70,000 per month. But it’s not just about the money, revenue reflects the impact you’re making. It’s our mission to make technical knowledge accessible worldwide.”

Shahpour emphasizes that new entrepreneurs should be aware of the unique Dutch market: “If I were to start again, I would first look at the local needs. Sectors like trade and sustainable energy offer significant opportunities, supported by government subsidies and a strong network. The Netherlands is great for its openness, international connections, and opportunities for innovation. It is a significant achievement for the Dutch economy to attract entrepreneurs from around the world who add value. I am proud to be part of that.”