The Dutch New Narrative Lab (DNNL) is a foundation that empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs – especially descendants of the trans-Atlantic slavery legacy – through innovation, networks, and cultural recognition.

Our Mission

To strengthen the structural position of descendants of enslaved people and bicultural entrepreneurs by combining:

• Entrepreneurship and innovation

• Cultural awareness and heritage

• Access to networks, investors and policymakers

Who We Reach

• 62% bicultural and migrant entrepreneurs

• 57% women and young professionals

• Direct focus on descendants of the slavery legacy

• Engagement of investors, corporates, academics and policymakers

What We Achieve

• High impact events (unConferences) with 130–150 participants per edition

• NPS score of 100: all respondents recommend the event

• Concrete results: funding matches, contracts, collaborations

• Cultural embedding with contributions by NiNsee, artists (e.g. Jeangu Macrooy) and experts (e.g. Jos van Beurden)

• Policy impact: findings presented to Dutch Parliament and De Nederlandsche Bank

• Academic recognition: featured in university curricula and theses

Why It Matters

DNNL connects heritage and history with future opportunities.
We provide a practical response to the lasting effects of the slavery past – translating remembrance into economic empowerment and innovation.

Looking Ahead

• Expanding unConferences to more regions

• Building a sustainable alumni network of bicultural entrepreneurs

• Deepening collaboration with policymakers and corporates

• Developing impact measurement tools to track long-term growth