About NOTS


History
The NOTS Foundation was set up in October 2003 by two Dutch entrepreneurs, Bart Hartman and Rolf Visser, who won their spurs by starting up companies in various lines of business. They are convinced that the effectiveness and efficiency of development aid can be increased substantially by applying an entrepreneurial approach to the activities.

The entrepreneurial approach of NOTS stems partly from Bart and Rolf’s background and partly from the fact that entrepreneurship and economic activity has proved very effective in helping people in developing countries to build up a self-supporting existence.

Within their own rights, Bart and Rolf came up against the problems in developing countries in 2001. At the time, they decided that they wanted to devote their knowledge and experience and part of their time and money to development aid. However, they were unable to find a company with an entrepreneurial approach to development aid. Once it became clear to them that this was a problem shared by other entrepreneurs who wanted to get involved in development aid, the idea was born for what has now become the NOTS Foundation.

In the first years NOTS focused mainly on granting scholarships for education projects. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, NOTS has contributed to the future of many children in developing countries. Via local partner organizations we have provided shelter and education. Many students graduated and have regained confidence. NOTS has not only provided material support, but has also helped with social, cultural and sporting activities to stimulate emotional development. These kids now have chance for a better future.

Besides the scholarships NOTS has also worked on micro credits and renewable energy. Since the beginning of 2010 NOTS has launched a new strategy. Because the scholarship projects are different from the microcredit and renewable energy activities in the area of financing (donating versus investing), NOTS has decided to focus on the micro credit and renewable energy activities. These activities also better reflect NOTS's entrepreneurial spirit.