Problem addressed

Many refugees, newcomers and other migrants in the Netherlands face structural barriers to employment, social participation and a sense of belonging in their new communities. Differences between individualistic “I-cultures” and collectivist “We-cultures” often lead to misunderstandings, mistrust and ineffective support from institutions and professionals. At the same time, public services, municipalities and organisations struggle to reach and adequately serve migrant communities, limiting the impact of integration, healthcare, education and labour market policies. These challenges are compounded by wider debates on migration and diversity, which risk marginalising newcomers instead of recognising their potential contribution to society. There is a clear need for practical, inclusive approaches that bridge cultural gaps, empower migrants, and help mainstream organisations to work more effectively with diverse communities.

Innovative solution

Migration Inc. responds as a social enterprise specialised in migration, integration, community building and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). It operates with and for both migrants and professionals, using cultural mediators, tailored trainings and intercultural expertise to build bridges between “I-cultures” and “We-cultures”. The organisation offers empowerment trajectories and educational activities for refugees and migrants, while simultaneously equipping public servants, healthcare providers, teachers and social workers with practical tools for culturally sensitive communication. Its intercultural mediators and interpreters act as trusted links between communities and institutions, going far beyond translation to identify problems, raise awareness and co-create solutions. Through consultancy and advocacy, Migration Inc. also supports inclusive policy design in areas such as civic integration, healthcare access, education and labour market participation, embedding social innovation into mainstream systems.

Key results and benefits

Migration Inc. creates tangible social impact by enabling migrants, asylum seekers and migrant women to participate more confidently and independently in Dutch society. Participants gain knowledge, skills and networks that support their integration pathways, from accessing services to navigating education and work. Professionals report improved intercultural understanding and more effective communication with migrant communities, enhancing the accessibility and quality of public and social services. Municipalities and organisations benefit from cultural mediators who help them reach previously underserved groups, reduce conflicts and misunderstandings, and build trust. At system level, inclusive policy advice and advocacy help strengthen equal rights and opportunities for newcomers, contributing to a more cohesive and resilient society that values diversity as an asset.

Potential for mainstreaming

The Migration Inc. model offers clear opportunities for replication and scaling across municipalities, sectors and EU Member States facing similar integration challenges. Its combined focus on migrant empowerment, professional capacity-building and intercultural mediation can be embedded in local integration strategies, social services, education and healthcare provision. The approach is highly adaptable, as cultural mediators and tailored trainings can be customised to different migrant groups, institutional contexts and legal frameworks. By positioning migrants as co-creators and bridge-builders rather than passive beneficiaries, the model aligns with EU priorities on social inclusion, equal opportunities and participation. With appropriate public funding and partnerships, it could inform mainstream practice in civic integration trajectories, diversity policies and community-based services across Europe.