Problem addressed
Stichting Stunt addresses the exclusion of people who are distanced from the labour market and the underuse of valuable material resources. Many long-term unemployed people, refugees and individuals with limited job prospects struggle to access meaningful work, skills development and social networks, which reinforces poverty and social isolation. At the same time, large volumes of usable materials and products are discarded, despite their potential value in a circular economy. Conventional labour market instruments often overlook participants who need intensive, hands-on guidance in real work settings. Stichting Stunt responds to these intertwined social and environmental challenges by creating tailored work-based learning opportunities embedded in practical, market-oriented enterprises. In doing so, it tackles both labour market distance and resource waste, while promoting local cohesion in Delft and surrounding communities.
Innovative solution
Stichting Stunt operates seven work-learning enterprises where participants gain skills, confidence and work experience by producing high-quality sustainable products and services. The organisation combines social activation and reintegration with real entrepreneurship, working closely with local companies and customers to turn residual material streams into new products, catering services and events. Participants work in diverse settings such as a lunchroom, upcycling workshops and service-oriented activities, allowing individual matching based on interests, talents and learning needs. Professional staff and volunteers provide structured guidance, while the commercial character of the enterprises ensures that work is meaningful, visible and valued by the wider community. This integrated approach transforms “waste” into marketable value and “distance from work” into concrete steps towards participation, employment or further training.
Key results and benefits
The model delivers social, economic and environmental benefits at local level. Participants gain practical work experience, vocational skills and daily structure, which enhances their self-confidence, employability and chances of progressing to regular jobs or education. They become part of a supportive community that values their contribution, reducing feelings of isolation and increasing wellbeing. For employers and commissioning organisations, Stichting Stunt offers innovative collaborations around residual material streams, co-creation of products and hosting of events on its campus. This creates new business value while demonstrating inclusive employment practices. Environmentally, the focus on reuse and transformation of leftover materials reduces waste and supports circular economy objectives. The visible quality of Stunt’s products and services helps build broader public awareness of sustainable consumption and social entrepreneurship.
Potential for mainstreaming
Stichting Stunt’s approach shows strong potential for replication in other cities seeking to link social inclusion with circular economy objectives. Its core elements – multiple work-learning enterprises, close cooperation with local businesses, and a focus on both material and human “value” – can be adapted to different regional labour markets and waste streams. Municipalities and public employment services can integrate similar models into activation and reintegration pathways, especially for people who do not immediately benefit from traditional training or job placement. Partnerships with social enterprises like Stichting Stunt can also help companies develop circular business cases while fulfilling corporate social responsibility goals. With appropriate public recognition, funding and policy support, this model can be scaled up as part of broader strategies on inclusive labour markets, sustainable production and community-based innovation.
