What we do
We are a globally active impact financier, providing early-stage finance where traditional funding is not yet available. This early investment lays the foundation for solutions that strengthen lives and create lasting, positive change. The organizations we finance work on the front line of today’s most pressing societal challenges. They don’t just improve livelihoods—when they succeed, they help build a more thriving society: more equal opportunities, more food for a growing population, and stronger climate resilience.
Our approach to drive change
Every request starts with a simple question: will this organization create real livelihood improvement, and can it last? We look for mission-driven organizations that fit our focus areas and use a business model to create real opportunities for people in a disadvantaged position.
In the Netherlands, we invest in social entrepreneurs who create meaningful jobs and learning pathways for people facing barriers to employment—often combined with circular ways of working that reduce waste and keep materials in use. Worldwide, we invest in farmer-centric organizations that strengthen smallholder farmers through better market access, resilience, and income opportunities.
We select organizations carefully, using a structured review that assesses both financial needs and impact potential.
Next we take a close look at what the organization can achieve. We assess the fit with our focus areas, the strength of the business model, and the potential for real livelihood improvement at scale. We also consider how the work contributes to wider transitions—social, ecological or economic—so progress isn’t temporary, but part of a longer-term shift.
To do this, we use a structured review: we request additional information where relevant, develop a recommendation based on financial needs and expected impact, and submit it for assessment by our Impact Committee.
When the fundamentals are right, we bring in tailored support, financial and non-financial, so the organization can grow responsibly.
Financing is most often provided through loans. We prefer loans because they reinforce self-reliance and responsibility, and repayments can be reused to reach more organizations. Depending on the situation, other instruments may be used as well, such as guarantees and technical support.
Alongside finance, we bring in knowledge and networks—such as coaching, training, technical assistance and smart connections—so growth is not only faster, but also stronger.
Scaling impact is important, but lasting impact matters more. That’s why we focus on strengthening viability: improving the financial foundation, sharpening the model, and reinforcing the capabilities needed to keep delivering results.
This is also where non-financial support plays a key role. By combining financing with coaching, access to expertise, and relevant networks, organizations become better equipped to scale their activities and continue delivering livelihood opportunities—also after our support ends.
Building a stronger organization takes time. That’s why we often stay involved for a longer period—long enough for the organization to grow in maturity, resilience and reach.
Each year, we review impact performance together. These annual check-ins keep progress transparent, support learning and improvement, and ensure the organization continues moving toward sustainable, long-term livelihood impact.
Our focus areas
At Rabo Foundation, we concentrate our efforts on two focus areas to drive sustainable development. In both areas we support mission-driven organizations strengthen resilience and build self-reliance for underserved communities. We do this by combining financial support (like loans) with non-financial support (like coaching, knowledge and networks).
