Chief Executive Officer – Founder – FORTH Innovation Institute
Keynote Speaker | Innovation Author | Change Catalyst
A Global Voice in Innovation Leadership
Few people have influenced the world of innovation as profoundly as Gijsbertus van Wulfen. With a career spanning over 40 years, Gijsbertus has dedicated his life to empowering others to embrace creativity, take bold steps forward, and redefine what’s possible in business and beyond.
After facing his own frustrations in leading innovation within organizations, he created the FORTH innovation methodology—a structured, practical approach that has doubled innovation success rates worldwide. Now available in 13 languages, the FORTH method is used by thousands across every sector—from global corporations to nonprofits—creating real, lasting impact.
An Innovation Journey Born from Frustration and Fueled by Passion
Before becoming a celebrated keynote speaker and innovation thought leader, Gijsbertus spent the first 15 years of his career grappling with the same barriers many face today: uncertainty, resistance to change, and organizational silos. This experience led him to a critical realization—the process of innovation itself needed innovating.
And so, the FORTH methodology was born—a roadmap for transforming ideas into actionable business models through collaboration, insight, and creative courage. His breakthrough work has taken him around the world, facilitating innovation journeys, delivering keynote speeches, and helping leaders build future-proof organizations from within.
The FORTH Method: Turning Ideas into Action
Introduced in 2006, the FORTH innovation method is built on five powerful steps:
- Full Steam Ahead – Define a crystal-clear innovation assignment.
- Observe & Learn – Deeply explore customer needs and market insights.
- Raise Ideas – Brainstorm and develop a wide range of creative concepts.
- Test Ideas – Validate ideas through feedback and experimentation.
- Homecoming – Deliver well-developed innovation business cases to leadership.
In just 15 weeks, internal teams are guided to present five high-potential innovation cases. FORTH has been instrumental in developing new products, services, business models, and internal processes—igniting a genuine culture of innovation across organizations.
Changing Innovation’s Narrative
Gijsbertus is not just a methodology creator—he’s a storyteller, educator, and mindset shifter. With seven published books (including The Innovation Maze, honored as Management Book of the Year), he has inspired hundreds of thousands to think differently about how innovation truly works.
In his words:
“My greatest achievement is the ability to inspire and change the mindsets of people across the globe—helping them innovate not just their work, but their lives, their organizations, and their countries.”
Barriers to Innovation – And How He Breaks Them
Drawing on his global experience, Gijsbertus has identified 15 common barriers to innovation, five of which include:
- Fear of Failure – The silent killer of breakthrough ideas.
- Bureaucracy – A web of red tape that strangles creativity.
- Organizational Silos – Barriers that block collaboration and fresh thinking.
- Resistance to Change – The comfort zone that limits growth.
- Risk Aversion – Playing it safe in a world that rewards the bold.
These insights are the foundation of his latest book, Breaking Innovation Barriers, which equips leaders to overcome the hurdles holding them back.
Inspiration Through Connection
What sets Gijsbertus apart is his authenticity. His Dutch directness, contagious enthusiasm, and real-world experience make him both relatable and unforgettable on stage. Whether through LinkedIn posts, YouTube videos, or conference halls filled with thousands, he connects deeply with his audience.
He believes in the power of stories, often sharing personal experiences that resonate, challenge, and ignite action. “Innovation doesn’t stop at the first ‘no’. That’s the moment it truly begins.” This simple truth lies at the heart of his message.
Legacy of Impact
The most rewarding part of his work? Watching people transform—stepping beyond fear, embracing uncertainty, and realizing their full creative potential. He recalls with pride how teams, once hesitant and unsure, confidently pitch game-changing ideas to their company boards.
A lifelong learner himself, he stays until the last keynote at innovation conferences, soaking in inspiration from fellow thinkers and change-makers. As a mentor, author, and speaker, he continues to spark innovation not only in companies, but in cultures and communities around the world.
Final Thoughts from Gijsbertus
“Innovation is no longer about just creating new products—it’s about reshaping experiences, business models, and mindsets. Let’s challenge the status quo together. I look forward to inspiring you in your country with proven strategies to drive impactful innovation. Let’s innovate!”
