Through the Postcode Loterij Buurtfonds, we support people who want to make their neighbourhoods greener, more sociable and more liveable. We funded 990 neighbourhood initiatives and 28 innovative community projects in 2025 – all in all, more than 1,000 initiatives, a significant milestone.
For and by neighbours
Across the Netherlands, people are taking the initiative to improve their local areas. From creating social meeting spots to planting greenery, their work unites people and strengthens trust. When local residents take action, neighbourhoods flourish. For example, thanks to partner projects, senior citizens get together to play indoor bowls in Venlo and children play, learn and develop at an activity club in Amsterdam’s Kraaiennest.
Innovative community projects
As well as smaller-scale efforts, we support innovative community projects that think bigger and aim to realise systemic change. Using new forms of collaboration and fresh ideas, they tackle issues such as economic security and human well-being and challenge prevailing systems. Examples include Aktiegroep Het Oude Westen, which brings together neighbourhood residents and works towards local structural improvements, and Stichting Studiezalen, which shows how fresh ideas can contribute to equal opportunity through initiatives such as the Fris Supermarkt.
Reaching new target groups
Through the Vergroen Je Buurt (Green Your Neighbourhood) campaign, we worked with IVN Natuureducatie to reach new target groups. Many people who applied to the Postcode Loterij Buurtfonds as a result of this campaign did so for the first time. Their projects, which included community vegetable gardens and outdoor meeting places, make neighbourhoods greener and strengthen bonds between local residents.
Building strong neighbourhoods together
The initiatives we support make a difference every day. They bring neighbours together, increase trust and boost engagement. These grassroots initiatives are helping to create a society in which people care for each other and inspire others to take action.
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