Est. Talks #1: Nalden
Nalden is a digital innovator renowned for his contributions to the tech and creative industries. His name became synonymous with WeTransfer, the file transfer company he co-founded in 2009. After stepping back from WeTransfer in 2019, Nalden entered a new chapter, gaining recognition as an investor and entrepreneur – someone who thrives on “making ideas happen.”
With Nalden’s influence spanning music, art, digital marketing, and beyond, we’re intrigued by what fuels his passion. From investing in start-ups to supporting artists and even backing an art-house cinema, what drives him? What gives this father of two the energy to continually reinvent himself, never content to stand still? Established, but new.
1. Describe yourself in three words.
Human. Man. Father.
2. Could you consider yourself ‘Made by Amsterdam’? (as it says on our label).
Nah. I’m made by my parents and only spent a decade living in Amsterdam. If anything, I’d credit the internet for shaping my creative, entrepreneurial and open-minded spirit. Amsterdam just happened to be the nearest city where I could find like-minded people, so there’s definitely a connection. But honestly, it could’ve just as easily been Rotterdam if that was closer... hahaha.
3. Your name is synonymous with WeTransfer, the file transfer company that you co-founded in 2009. Can you share the sparkling inspiration behind the idea?
I was frustrated with the tools available at the time for sending files, so the idea was to remove the friction and create a smooth, user-friendly experience for sending and downloading files. Even the name ‘WeTransfer’ was a playful nod (ok, more like a joke) to ‘YouSendIt’ which was the go-to tool back then.
4. You once said, “I’d like to see WeTransfer not just as a handy utility, but as a great museum where people can discover exceptional work.” We love this serendipitous vision that blends both creativity & functionality. What aspect of WeTransfer are you most proud of?
The fact that it’s still around and helpful for people today is kinda cool.
5. What is your proudest mistake?
Saying yes to this interview.
6. Since stepping back from WeTransfer in 2019, you’ve pivoted and are now recognised as an investor and entrepreneur, someone who “loves to make ideas happen.” What ideas excite you the most?
Ideally, ideas that un-fuck the world for future generations. But I also enjoy simple software. Ideas are cool, but it all depends on the execution...
7. What drives you, and what ultimately brings you the most satisfaction?
Having fun. As the Dutch saying goes Wie niet speelt, staat stil.
8. Which established person do you admire the most, and why?
Admiration is tricky, yo. But I do respect the French philosopher Blaise Pascal, who once said: “All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.”
9. What is something that deserves more celebration?
Nature.
10. What’s next?
Well, I guess Established is going to become a huge success?