A Dutch startup, Solvoz, has been awarded the Best Innovation Prize at The Hague Innovators Challenge during the ImpactFest event. This recognition, presented by Alderman Saskia Bruines, highlights Solvoz’s groundbreaking platform that is transforming procurement in the humanitarian, healthcare, and development sectors, especially in light of increasing budget cuts. Solvoz’s innovative marketplace connects local suppliers with organisations in need, reducing dependency on international sourcing and enabling more cost-effective, transparent, and sustainable procurement.
Founded by Claire Barnhoorn, Solvoz arose from her experience working in regions such as the DR Congo and Mali, where she observed the challenges faced by aid organisations relying on international suppliers, even when locally available goods could suffice. Barnhoorn’s vision was to create a digital version of the “yellow pages” to connect local suppliers with organisations in need, helping to strengthen local economies, empower businesses, and build more resilient communities.
The platform, which connects regional suppliers to NGOs and other aid organisations globally, has already delivered significant savings. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) using Solvoz’s technology have reported savings of up to 30% on procurement budgets and over 75% on process costs. This cost efficiency is especially crucial as the Dutch government has announced a €1 billion cut to NGO budgets, forcing these organisations to operate more efficiently.
In addition to financial benefits, Solvoz’s platform promotes sustainability by allowing organisations to align their procurement with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The company is also a co-founder of the Gender Responsive Procurement Alliance, which advocates for gender-responsive sourcing as part of SDG 5 on gender equality.
Solvoz’s model represents a shift from traditional international sourcing to a more regional, sustainable procurement process, optimising aid delivery and healthcare systems. This shift is especially timely given the Dutch government’s budget cuts, which have forced NGOs to find more efficient solutions.
Martin Luxemburg, Director at Unknown Group and a jury member of the Hague Innovators Challenge, praised Solvoz’s innovation, saying, “Solvoz is a true impact startup that empowers local companies to compete fairly for tenders. It’s a platform that fixes the future.”
In accepting the award, Barnhoorn emphasised Solvoz’s mission to create lasting change by empowering organisations globally and enhancing efficiency in the humanitarian and healthcare sectors. “We are building a future where aid and healthcare delivery are not just about meeting needs, but about strengthening the resilience of entire regions,” she said.
Solvoz’s success at ImpactFest is a testament to the company’s commitment to using technology to drive global impact. The company aims to continue supporting local economies while helping NGOs and healthcare providers navigate financial constraints by offering sustainable, cost-effective solutions.
