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Make professional development accessible to everyone

In the Netherlands, professional development is not a given for everyone. VU research shows that our country has greater inequality of opportunity than many other Western countries. This leaves valuable talent untapped, despite motivation and potential being present.

VUfonds wants to give these talented professionals the chance to reach their full potential. Will you help make this possible?

Why an incentive fund?

When professional talent remains untapped, the consequences are felt both personally and socially. Individuals are unable to fulfil their potential, and organisations miss out on professionals with diverse backgrounds. By investing in training and development, we build a stronger, more inclusive society together.

Barriers to professional development

For many people, professional development is beyond their reach. This is mainly due to a lack of financial resources, but other barriers can also play a role. For instance, they may be unaware of course opportunities, have difficulties with the Dutch language, lack role models in their surroundings or experience limited commitment from their employer. Without support, these people fall behind.

Taking a short course through VU for Professionals

VUfonds wants to give these people the opportunity to follow a course through VU for Professionals. In doing so, they may receive additional guidance, such as a Dutch language course, coaching to become familiar with professional education, and access to business networks.

In cooperation with interest groups

VUfonds works together with various interest organisations, such as the municipality of Amsterdam, UAF (education and work for refugees) and TopSport Amsterdam. By collaborating with these organisations, we are able to get in touch with people who would not otherwise know how to find us, and discuss the available course options with them. Together, we ensure that support reaches those who need it most.

Donate

Make professional development accessible

The impact of your support

While it may seem obvious to continue developing yourself, it can be a difficult step for those who are not used to it. We aim to remove this barrier by providing guidance and waiving registration fees. Education can enable people to take a big step forward in their personal development, which will have an impact on future generations. A pattern can be broken. 

With your support:

  • Participants gain more opportunities in the labour market
  • They can participate more fully in society
  • They can set an example to others

Together, we can create a society in which every talent can flourish.

Help us and make professional development accessible for everyone. Donate to VUfonds

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who is this support intended for?

    We focus on people with a higher professional (HBO+) thinking or working level who, despite their potential, are not currently in a job that matches their capabilities. Our course helps them take a step forward in the Dutch labour market. 

  • How does the selection process work?

    VU for Professionals helps those professionals who could use some support by connecting them with interest groups. Thus, an initial selection already takes place. During a matching interview, we look at what challenges a talent might face. What kind of support do they need? Do they have the right working and thinking level for this course? Do the courses match their needs?

  • Which courses are involved?

    VU for Professionals offers courses in various fields. Participants can choose from the range of courses offered by VU for Professionals, but the programme provides guidance to ensure that each course is suitable for its participants and that they receive the proper support.

Read more about ...

Would you like to know more?

Feel free to contact us

VUfonds@vu.nl

VUfonds bankaccount:
BIC: INGBNL2A
NL09INGB0008526643
on behalf of the VUvereniging-VUfonds, Amsterdam

Contact

  • Kaat Burbidge-van Velde
  • Head of department for Fundraising & Partnerships
  • c.d.burbige@vu.nl

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