Recognised Refugees and Work
Twente is working towards broad-based prosperity. In this vision, every talent counts. Through the Recognised Refugees and Work project, previously untapped talent among recognised refugees (status holders) is given an early opportunity to actively participate in Twente’s labour market. The project is a business-driven initiative, implemented by the Culture Kitchen Foundation and supported by Twente Board. A strategy that benefits both people and the regional economy.
Recognised Refugees & Work
In Twente, every talent matters — even talent that has yet to be recognised.
The project enables recognised refugees (status holders) to engage in employment activities early in their stay in the region. It presents opportunities for individuals who are eager to participate in the labour market, and for local businesses looking for new talent and aiming to promote intercultural and inclusive collaboration within their organisations.
Approved by Twente Board in February 2025, the project is funded through the Regio Deal Twente. The start-up phase focuses on building a strong foundation: establishing a dedicated programme team, setting up multiple routes to employment, and actively involving the business sector.
What Makes This Project Unique:
- Two pathways to employment: direct job placement or participation in a nine-month work-learning programme
- Launch in six municipalities, with plans to expand to all 14 municipalities in Twente
- Impact research in collaboration with Saxion University of Applied Sciences to assess societal value
- Goal: support 122 status holders into employment and engage 40 partner companies by 2029
Two Employment Pathways
"By connecting recognised refugees to regional businesses at an early stage and supporting them into employment, we achieve quicker and more sustainable results," says the board of the Culture Kitchen Foundation. The project offers two distinct routes: direct job matching with employers, or participation in a nine-month work-learning programme. This programme introduces participants to Dutch work culture, combines classroom learning with practical experience, and is delivered in partnership with companies, ROC van Twente, and Saxion.
Phased Roll-Out, Strong Ambition
The project begins in six municipalities, with the aim of expanding to all 14 in Twente. "We are building step by step, which allows for learning, adjustments, and the development of lasting partnerships," the board states. This phased approach aligns with Twente Board’s broader objective: a strong region where everyone has the opportunity to contribute.
Collaboration Across the Five Pillars
The project exemplifies how the five O’s – entrepreneurs, government, education, research, and civil society – collaborate to address societal challenges. “Only by building these connections can we make the project successful,” the board says. Businesses open their doors to new talent, governments provide support, educational institutions facilitate integration, researchers measure impact, and the foundation works closely with municipalities to ensure local alignment.
Opportunities for Businesses
Businesses in Twente gain access to motivated and skilled talent through the project. They receive support via training sessions, onboarding programmes, and buddy systems. “By giving companies an active role, we ensure mutual learning and long-term sustainability,” the Culture Kitchen Foundation states. Seven companies have already joined. The goal: 40 partner businesses by 2029.
Measurable Impact
The project aims to support 122 recognised refugees into employment within four years. But its impact goes beyond the numbers: it fosters stronger social connections, enhances integration, and builds more inclusive workplaces. “We measure more than successful placements – we also evaluate qualitative impact through interviews, assessments, and business scans,” the board adds. Businesses in Twente that wish to contribute to a more inclusive labour market are warmly invited to participate. “Together, we are building a Twente where everyone has the opportunity to contribute, grow, and develop,” the board concludes.
For more information about this project, visit the Culture Kitchen Foundation’s website:
https://stichtingculturekitchen.nl/
Gross Twents Happiness
Which indicators does this project contribute to?
✓ Income
✓ Job security
✓ Social engagement
✓ Personal development
✓ Social connections