What's going on?
Nearly one in four households in the Netherlands is in debt. Among them, there is also a growing group of working people who cannot make ends meet. All of them experience the disastrous consequences of financial distress. You can no longer buy the necessary things for yourself and your family. And you are constantly worried about money and bills. This stress takes its toll on your health, your work, your relationships and your children. The impact of debt is enormous if it is not intervened in time. Unfortunately, people often wait too long to seek help. Especially because they are unfamiliar with debt relief. But also because there is still a taboo to talk about debt.
What is the solution?
Fortunately, there are parties who set up initiatives to help people with (expected) debts. These are civil society organizations and social fintechs - companies that offer financial services with innovative technology. These organizations make people aware of their impending problems. And help them to regain an overview and grip on their financial affairs. This prevents serious problems and ensures less stress and a happier life.
How does Rabo Foundation contribute to this?
Getting a fair chance at economic independence - that is the core of our mission. Together with civil society organizations, we break the taboo on money worries, so that people can take action sooner and dare to ask for help. In this way, everyone can take steps towards a financially healthy life.
Financing solutions
Prevention is the best strategy. Then by being there on time when debts threaten. But also by tackling the underlying causes of financial problems. Such as low literacy and limited digital skills. We finance civil society organizations that pursue these goals. Preferably with large or rapidly scalable programs, so that we reach as many people as possible. We are often their first financier and thus have a role as a catalyst.
Managing for more social impact
Impact is what matters to us. Social result, in other words. When a project application is submitted, we immediately look at the expected impact. We then measure the results achieved throughout the year. In this way we discover how an initiative can achieve even more success and impact. We share the lessons with other organizations - that's how they help each other move forward.
Make connections for greater range
We bring the organizations into contact with Rabobank, knowledge partners and other social organizations and social fintechs. By stimulating cooperation, we increase the reach and impact of initiatives. We also work together with the Dutch SchuldhulpRoute.
Strengthening organizations
In order to help as many people as possible towards a financially healthy life, civil society organizations must also have a good business model. We offer various training courses, meetings and publications for this purpose.