ROTTERDAM, 12 January 2026 – The Oranje Fonds has opened entries for the Appeltjes van Oranje 2026, this year focused on “Breaking poverty together” (Samen Armoede Doorbreken). If you’re involved in a Rotterdam initiative tackling poverty or debt with long-term impact, you can apply from 12 January to 22 Februar.
The Oranje Fonds says it is looking for organisations that help people build knowledge and skills that reduce or prevent poverty, and that make poverty easier to discuss and better understood.
How can Rotterdam organisations apply for Appeltjes van Oranje 2026?
Applications are open from 12 January to 22 February. The prize is national, so Rotterdam initiatives can apply on the same footing as projects elsewhere in the Netherlands. The theme is “Breaking poverty together” (Samen Armoede Doorbreken), with the Oranje Fonds saying it wants projects that help break poverty and debt in a sustainable way, rather than offering only short-term relief.
What kind of poverty and debt projects does the Oranje Fonds want to reward?
The Oranje Fonds highlights initiatives that strengthen people with practical knowledge and skills, with a clear aim to prevent or reduce poverty. It also points to projects that help make poverty discussable, contribute to a fairer picture of reality, and show what becomes possible when people can find the right support.
The organisation describes social initiatives as a crucial link because they are close to people, often have their trust, and can offer the kind of support that fits what someone actually needs.
Why Appeltjes van Oranje 2026 puts poverty in focus
The Oranje Fonds frames poverty as a persistent national issue that affects health, opportunities, and the ability to take part in society. It cites figures of over 0.5 million people living below the poverty line, with another 1.1 million just above it.
It also says existing poverty policy can be complex or not sufficient, which is one reason it wants to spotlight initiatives that already know how to reach people and keep them moving towards lasting change.
What do Appeltjes van Oranje winners receive, and when are they awarded?
Each year, the Orange Apples awards (Appeltjes van Oranje) go to three social organisations that contribute to a more connected society. Winners receive a bronze statuette made by Princess Beatrix, plus €25,000.
The Oranje Fonds says the winners will be honoured in October, with Queen Máxima presenting the awards.
Where to find the application page for Appeltjes van Oranje 2026
You can read the criteria and apply via: https://oranjefonds.nl/appeltjes
If you’re part of a Rotterdam project that helps people escape poverty or debt for good, this is one of those rare moments where a national stage is actively looking for local work that usually stays under the radar.
