Start Foundation is an established Venture Philanthropy Fund in the Netherlands that focuses on creating, preserving, and making jobs accessible for disadvantaged individuals who have limited or no access to the labor market. With a capital of approximately 125 million euros, Start Foundation provides both grants and social investments to build stronger social purpose organizations and increase their social impact. Their approach includes tailored financing, non-financial support, engagement, involvement of networks, capacity building, and performance measurement.

Start Foundation works with charities, socially-driven businesses, and traditional businesses to combat discrimination and bridge the gap between rich and poor. They constantly develop innovative ideas, take proactive initiatives, foster cooperation, and aim to scale up small initiatives to benefit larger groups. As an independent and activist organization, Start Foundation challenges existing laws and regulations to break through injustices.

Their mission is to reform perspectives on solidarity and wealth by ensuring work is available to everyone, everywhere. Since their establishment in 1998, Start Foundation has made significant investments and initiated programs to empower marginalized groups and create inclusive opportunities. They have published influential reports on the failures of government policies, investment strategies driven by values, and practical guides for social impact bonds.

Their notable investments and initiatives include establishing the first job office for HIV-infected individuals, introducing social enterprise for disabled delivery service, and developing the first Dutch social impact bond with ABN AMRO bank. Start Foundation is led by a board of trustees and managed by Jos Verhoeven, a respected figure in Dutch philanthropy. They are dedicated to advocating for social justice and driving transformative change in the labor market