On 20 February 2026, Amsterdam will host an important public event focused on one of the most effective pathways to integration: entrepreneurship. The panel “Entrepreneurship as a New Beginning – The Role of Entrepreneurship in the Integration of Refugees” will take place at Ru Paré in Amsterdam Nieuw-West, bringing together representatives from the municipality, community organizations, and refugee-led businesses to discuss how newcomers can overcome barriers and build sustainable futures through enterprise.
Across the Netherlands, thousands of newcomers and people with a refugee background arrive each year with strong professional skills, creativity, and a deep motivation to rebuild their lives. Many were entrepreneurs, traders, technicians, or professionals in their countries of origin. However, upon arrival, they often face significant obstacles in accessing the Dutch labor market. Language barriers, unfamiliar regulations, limited recognition of qualifications, restricted networks, and cultural differences make it difficult to find stable employment. As a result, many experience long periods of unemployment or underemployment, which affects not only their financial security but also their sense of belonging and self-confidence.
For many, entrepreneurship appears to be a promising alternative. Starting a small business offers the possibility of independence, flexibility, and personal growth. Yet this path is rarely simple. Newcomers often lack access to reliable information about registration procedures, taxation, permits, financing, and legal requirements. They may struggle to understand Dutch business culture, customer expectations, and administrative systems. Without guidance, many promising ideas never develop into viable enterprises.
In this context, the role of public institutions and informal community organizations becomes crucial. Municipalities play a key role in creating inclusive policies, offering support programs, and connecting newcomers to training, funding, and professional networks. Through employment services, entrepreneurship initiatives, and social inclusion policies, local governments help reduce structural barriers and promote equal opportunities. At the same time, grassroots and informal organizations serve as trusted bridges between newcomers and institutions. They provide culturally sensitive support, practical guidance, emotional encouragement, and safe spaces where people feel understood and empowered.
The upcoming panel will explore why entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful drivers of integration. It will highlight how supporting refugee entrepreneurs benefits not only individuals and families, but also neighborhoods and local economies. Small businesses create jobs, revitalize streets, encourage cultural exchange, and foster social cohesion. When newcomers are supported in contributing economically, they become active participants in society rather than passive recipients of assistance.
Speakers
The panel features speakers who represent different dimensions of support and experience. Mohamed Bourik, Urban Manager and Project Leader representing the Municipality of Amsterdam, will share insights into public policy and institutional perspectives on entrepreneurship and integration. Patricia Silva, Founder and Director of the Road of Hope Foundation and Marlijn van de Pol from Vrouw en Vaart, will speak from the standpoint of informal and community-based organizations that work closely with newcomers. The discussions will be moderated by Agatha Kuiper, consultant and trainer in Business Plan and Strategic Planning, and Project Coordinator of the Ondernemerschap program at Road of Hope. Entrepreneurs with refugee background who have successfully established their own businesses in Amsterdam will share their personal journeys, challenges, and lessons learned.
By bringing together policymakers, practitioners, and entrepreneurs, the event aims to strengthen existing support systems, identify gaps, and inspire new collaborations. It seeks also to demonstrate how initiatives like the Ondernemerschapstraject can transform potential into opportunity and help newcomers become confident, independent contributors to Dutch society.
The program begins at 16:00 with a panel discussion, personal stories, and the official launch of the new Ondernemerschap trajectory. From 18:00 to 19:15, participants will gather for an Iftar dinner and networking session, emphasizing the importance of connection, dialogue, and mutual understanding. The event will be held mainly in Dutch, with translation available upon request, ensuring accessibility for diverse communities.
Participation is open to community members, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in social inclusion and economic empowerment. Registration is required, and interested participants are encouraged to subscribe in advance to secure their place and take part in this important conversation about building a more inclusive and resilient Amsterdam.
Register now! 👉 https://forms.gle/YEhEA2BacbB9Z9Hj9
