About

Nic was born and raised in the Netherlands. At the age of 18, he volunteered for the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in the former Yugoslavia because he strongly believed in spreading progress and empowering people.

With a vision for future Chinese development he moved to Shanghai to study Mandarin Chinese in 1994. As an early foreigner in China he got involved in multiple new ventures. The most notable endeavor, VBD Roses, has become the leading flower business in China and was the basis of 98 Sparks. His in-depth industry knowledge and experience have helped him understand selling in China as well as assist Chinese enterprises in expanding into the global market.

Nic is continually investing and working on new ventures to contribute to 98 Sparks long-term goal of making a positive social and environmental impact. He also enjoys mentoring other entrepreneurs and is an active member in the global Entrepreneurs Organization network and the Sustainability Chair.

Nic is fluent in Mandarin, Dutch and English, and resides with his family in Shanghai. He?s also an Ironman Triathlon finisher and frequently travels to Kenya because of his love of nature and interest in evaluating the social impact sector there.