Always five steps
ahead.
We turn emerging technology into real digital products — we explore what's coming, validate it against the market, and bring it to maturity. Whether in-house or in partnership with startups.
We build digital products for tomorrow and beyond.
We start with the technologies and trends that matter, test them against real market needs, and develop the ones that prove out — from a first concept to a product people can actually use.
Data-driven products
We turn everyday business data into products that create real value.
Digital platforms
Connected products, services and ecosystems from a single source.
AI & automation
Putting emerging technology to practical, everyday work.
Digital business models
New revenue streams built on data and connected technology.
Your technology, proven on real industrial use cases.
We pilot promising startup solutions on real-world problems, then open the door to our established industrial network — a short, direct path from first conversation to deployment.
Pitch your solutionReal pilot customers
Validate on live industrial use cases — not slide decks.
An established network
Direct access to operators and decision-makers.
A short, direct path
No drawn-out procurement — first conversation to deployment, fast.
Build the next decade with us.
We're a small, multidisciplinary team of engineers, developers, designers and strategists. Based in Enschede, NL — on the University of Twente campus.
Open positions
Human Computer Interface Expert (m/f/d)
Product & Platform · m/f/d
Master's Thesis – Business Model Innovation (m/f/d)
Innovation Strategy · m/f/d
Let's talk.
Are you a startup with an interesting product or service — or would you like to help shape the future on the 5ahead team? We'd love to hear from you.
Hengelosestraat 500, Enschede, NL — on the Kennispark Twente campus, alongside 400+ high-tech companies.