How the CSRD offers business opportunities – and how to take the first steps
14 November 2025
Image from Tom Feenstra/Fotomatic
Boost je Buurt 2025 – The Winners Are In!
Updated 10 October 2025 at 11:42
On Wednesday, July 3rd, social entrepreneurs, policymakers, community builders, partners, and fellow Amsterdammers gathered at The Social Hub Amsterdam on Wibautstraat for the festive finale of Boost je Buurt 2025. An afternoon filled with sparkle, ambition, inspiration, and energy — and above all, a celebration of the people who are building a fairer, more inclusive, and more sustainable Amsterdam through their initiatives.
A Festive Kick-off
The day began with a surprising energizer led by Katie Suter from MVNG MTTRS, one of this year’s Boost je Buurt participants. She got the room — quite literally — moving.
Next, Linea Bingel and Lisa Markslag from Amsterdam Impact shared what Boost je Buurt has meant to them, before handing the mic to two of the jury members: Corinne Ellemeet and Amélie Strens. Corinne Ellemeet, Director of Neighbourhoods at Rochdale, emphasized how vital it is to create space for social entrepreneurs — people who not only spot opportunities in their neighbourhoods, but seize them, often in places where others don’t yet see the potential.
“Never underestimate the role of social entrepreneurs. If there’s one symbol of pride and hope in our neighbourhoods, it’s the impact-driven entrepreneurs working right in the heart of them.”
City District Chair of Centrum, Amélie Strens, called on the city to reclaim the centre as a space for everyone:
“The pressure on the city centre is intense. With rising property prices, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for entrepreneurs who genuinely want to make a difference to find affordable space. And yet these are exactly the people our communities — and all of Amsterdam — need. They shape the future of our city and help keep the centre vibrant and liveable – creating a dynamic downtown where everyone feels at ease.”
Image from Tom Feenstra/Fotomatic
A City We Build Together
After the opening session, former participant Marthe de Groot shared how the 2022 Boost je Buurt programme helped her business, Marie Marie, reach the next level. Following that, all 25 participants presented their ideas at the Boost je Buurt market — an interactive setting where they connected with visitors, jury members, and partners to share their plans.
“What a project, what an experience — and what a mega boost of coaching! I didn’t win a prize, but there are so many exciting collaborations ahead. This opportunity has been incredible!”
— Charlotte from Feest in Weesp
Image from Tom Feenstra/Fotomatic
And the Winners Are...
During the closing session, the winners of the Boost je Buurt 2025 awards were announced:
Jury Prize
These entrepreneurs impressed the jury with well-thought-out plans, strong social impact, and growth potential:
People's Prize
These entrepreneurs won the hearts — and votes — of the Amsterdam public:
With a lot of enthusiastic people in attendance, countless new connections, and 25 entrepreneurs who made their voices heard, we look back on a successful edition of Boost je Buurt.
A big thank you to all participants, partners, and supporters who made this possible!
Want to learn more about Boost je Buurt or connect with one of the participants?
Visit amsterdam.nl/boostjebuurt or reach out to the Amsterdam Impact team at impact@amsterdam.nl.
