Amsterdam is an unequal city. People in districts such as Nieuw-West, Noord and Zuidoost are more often chronically ill and live on average six years shorter than Amsterdammers in other districts. Research shows that large groups of residents in these neighbourhoods do not feel heard and seen. The Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond wants to narrow this gap and improve liveability for all. By creating connections between various parties who jointly realise solutions to the challenges facing the city. Abdelhamid Idrissi founder/director of Stichting Studiezalen: "Equal collaboration through the Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond enables Study Halls to increase impact. Instead of islands of support, we develop joint solutions that break opportunity inequality and poverty for children and their families in vulnerable neighbourhoods."
The celebration of the 750ste anniversary of the city provided a prime opportunity to engage in new forms of collaboration between people and organisations not yet familiar with each other. Quartermaster Nina Tellegen; "Together you get further. Amsterdammers feel involved in their city and are keen to put their shoulders to the wheel together to improve the city for everyone. Over the past period, I have spoken to more than 100 companies, social initiatives and other involved Amsterdammers. They say they do not always know who they can work with to contribute to the city. The Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond connects and unburdens.
On the city's birthday, on 27 October 2025, the Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond was handed over to all Amsterdam citizens as an independent association. A lasting gift to the city.”
There are various types of memberships for different members. Social initiatives, companies, concerned Amsterdammers, the municipality and funds can, through meetings and mediation of the Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond joining forces. At the heart of the New Amsterdam Alliance is sharing knowledge, resources, networks and experience in order to build a future-proof city together. Dimitri Yocarini, CEO Olympia: "In 750 years, Amsterdam has grown into a great place, to which all committed Amsterdammers have contributed. Great initiatives are ready for our fellow Amsterdammers who could really use a little extra help. Big or small and for everyone. Together, we create an even finer and more prosperous Amsterdam. That's why I believe in the Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond."
The launch of the Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond took place on 31 March at the official residence of Mayor Femke Halsema. Since Amsterdam's official birthday on 27 October, the association has continued to connect Amsterdammers to make more possible together. The Nieuw Amsterdams Verbond stands for a city where cooperation and connection are central and where everyone can contribute to a better future.
