Local networks play a key role in strengthening diversity and inclusion. This blog shows how 010 Inclusiefand Utrecht Divers & Inclusief can support employers with knowledge, networks, and practical tools to structurally embed D&I in their policies.
Local D&I networks: 010 Inclusief & Utrecht Divers
Diversity and inclusion (D&I) are most effective when they are locally supported. That's why SER Diversiteit in Bedrijf (SER Diversity in Business) supports local initiatives in cities like Rotterdam and Utrecht. But what exactly do these platforms do, how can your organization join, and are there similar networks in other cities?
What do 010 Inclusief and Utrecht Divers & Inclusief do?
Both platforms are committed to supporting employers and employees in strengthening diversity and inclusion, but each with its own local focus.
• 010 Inclusief is an urban movement in Rotterdam, where employers and employees jointly strengthen diversity and inclusion within their own organizations—and thus raise the bar for good employer practices in the city.
• Utrecht Divers & Inclusief (UDI) has a similar design, but focuses on the Utrecht labor market. Here too, SER Diversity in Business helps employers embed D&I within their organizations, with support from the municipality of Utrecht.
Mission & Goal of 010 Inclusief and Utrecht Divers & Inclusief
The strength of both networks lies in their shared mission: inspiring and supporting organizations to truly integrate diversity and inclusion into their policies and practices. Both initiatives strive for:
• Inclusive work cultures where differences are valued.
• Broadly accessible networks, for all sectors and organizational sizes.
• A city-wide incentive for organizations to not only promise D&I but also to actually implement it.
The mission of 010 Inclusief is described as creating a Rotterdam labor market where everyone is welcome, regardless of background—and where employers lead by example. The mission of Utrecht Divers & Inclusief is described as realizing a Utrecht labor market where diversity leads to equal opportunities and inclusion within organizations is a given.
What do 010 Inclusief and Utrecht Divers & Inclusief offer?
Both 010 Inclusief and Utrecht Divers & Inclusief provide access to a city-wide network of companies and organizations that share knowledge and experiences on diversity and inclusion. They support concrete steps, such as developing an Action Plan, and offer practical tools and formats. You can also contact a helpdesk with questions about D&I policy, from recruitment and selection to implementation and monitoring.
How do you make diversity and inclusion a structural component of your policy?
Joining a network like 010 Inclusief or Utrecht Divers & Inclusief demonstrates that diversity and inclusion aren't just empty promises for your organization, but a structural component of your policy. Participation is easy and free: you can complete an Action Plan and/or contribute to the knowledge platform. This way, you actively contribute to the city-wide movement and can work specifically towards an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce.
Want to know more or join your local network? Visit 010 Inclusief or Utrecht Divers & Inclusief.
Similar initiatives in other cities
Local networks like 010 Inclusief and Utrecht Divers & Inclusief are still relatively unique in the Netherlands. While other cities do have individual initiatives and programs focused on diversity and inclusion—often initiated by municipalities or community organizations—a broad, city-wide platform where employers from all sectors collaborate is still rare. That's precisely why these networks demonstrate the power of a collaborative movement and serve as an inspiring example for other regions.
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