OUR MISSION

Together, we work to make all newcomers feel at home and are welcome.

Did you know that in the Netherlands, 50% of newcomers feel lonely, and only 25% have a job? This not only can be improved but must be improved. Our idea? Give newcomers more ownership to take steps on their own.

We provide them, along with all the fantastic initiatives in the Netherlands, a motivating place to gradually build a new life. A place where essential information is available, where you can book activities, and where you can ask all your questions so that you can feel a little more at home in your new place step by step. Together, we offer newcomers a warm welcome and enrich Dutch society. Build with us and download our app!

Newcomers and locals sitting together around a cozy table.
OUR VISION

Every newcomer is welcome

How different would the world be if every newcomer was welcome? The entry, reception and integration of newcomers would have been handled in a different way, citizens would behave differently and as Welcome app we would probably not play the role we do now. Welcome is in our name for a reason. Every newcomer is welcome, that is our dream.

Happy newcomers whom we have assisted in their integration process.

Welcome app Netherlands foundation

The Welcome app Netherlands foundation is an ANBI foundation.

The Welcome app foundation used to be Blendin. Since 2020 we have continued as Welcome app. Our goal is to create a platform that offers valuable connections and opportunities for newcomers in a search for a new home. We do this by developing a central platform where municipalities, social initiatives, companies and locals come together to offer relevant and local information and activities.

Chamber of Commerce number: 66011310

Find our impact reports here (in Dutch)

Impact report 2020 Impact report 2021 Impact report 2022 Policy plan ANBI Publication form
The story of newcomers about their successful integration process.

Team

Meet the Welcome app team!

Christina Hiemstra

CEO

"I strongly believe in the power of digital technology - and the Welcome app in particular! - to assist people on their journey and help them build a bright future in their new homeland as quickly as possible."

Ghada Shabaitah

User Engagement Coordinator

"I was a newcomer and I know the importance of a place like W! that gives people the opportunities to be part of the local community with ease and love!"

Nadiia Shevchenko

Project Coordinator

"Newcomers often need a welcoming community, reliable information, and supportive resources to help them navigate their integration journey successfully. And that's exactly what W! provides."

Loes Ansems

Head of Operations & Impact

‘’W! brings ownership, equality and social contact back into the integration process. I am honoured to be able to work on the impact piece by listening carefully and constantly learning.‘’

Julius Weise

Founder

‘’W! approaches everyone from strength and potential and facilitates newcomers to take the steps they deem necessary. Thousands of people can build a new life through our platform. How cool is that?‘’

Tim Grasmaijer

Head of Product

‘’W! uses technology to solve an important social problem. I think it's very cool to make a beautiful app for a special target group.‘’

Carlijn den Boer

Brand Manager

‘’I believe we can work better together to welcome and support newcomers to find their place in the Netherlands. The app plays the connecting role in this!‘’

Isabel Lumani

Project Coordinator

‘’Before joining W! I felt powerless when I watched the news. Now I can make a difference and that feels good!‘’

Roos van Kreij

Project Coordinator

‘’I want to be the voice of those Dutch people who do welcome newcomers with open arms; show how big that group is and how far we can come together!‘’

Margot Albert

Project Coordinator

‘’I work at W! because I want to ensure that the many opportunities for newcomers and the Netherlands are seen and utilized.‘’

Nahom Berhane

Community Builder

‘’Everyone (including newcomers) should have an equal chance in a diverse world. I contribute to that at Welcome app.‘’

Will you be our new team member?