Supports innovative, sustainable initiatives for a better society.
Stichting DOEN, also known as the DOEN Foundation, is a Dutch organization established in 1991 by the Dutch Postcode Lottery. Its mission is to support pioneers working towards a green, socially inclusive, and creative society. The foundation focuses on three main areas: regenerative economy, social solidarity, and the power of imagination. It supports initiatives in sustainable energy, circular entrepreneurship, sustainable food systems, and cultural projects, primarily in the Netherlands and developing countries. DOEN receives annual contributions from Dutch charity lotteries, allowing it to support over 250 pioneers each year through grants, loans, and investments. The foundation's financial resources amount to approximately 30 million euros annually. Typical project financing ranges from 100,000 to 500,000 euros. To receive funding, initiatives should be innovative, have a business approach, and align with DOEN's focus areas. The foundation prioritizes projects in their early stages or close to market introduction. Recent beneficiaries include reNature, which offers models for regenerative farming, and Stichting Verspilling is Verrukkelijk, a cooperation of entrepreneurs addressing food waste. DOEN also supports cultural initiatives in Africa through partnerships with organizations like Culture Resource and the Arab Fund for Arts and Culture.