People are becoming increasingly aware of the huge amounts of money being invested into development projects. At the same time, we are confronted with the fact that worldwide poverty and inequality does not seem to decrease substantially. Consequently, many people lose their trust in the idea of development aid. These factors made us realize that things have to change. OFoundation recognizes and endorses the intentions and ideals of all development aid, but aims to improve the concept and strategy. The O-philosophy stands for a new, effective and sustainable way of tackling worldwide poverty and inequality. Within our concept, empowerment is key. OFoundation’s concept is based on social entrepreneurship and franchise. We have deliberately chosen to be a foundation in the form of an enterprise, since entrepreneurship creates responsibilities on both sides: a reciprocal process on the basis of equality between people. We believe that offering people the opportunity to provide for themselves gives them security and in turn teaches them to build their own fortune and offers a future perspective. When people are able to provide for their own basic needs, they will also be able to start thinking about the rest of their lives. This process stimulates independence and personal freedom. To find out more about the O philosophy, visit www.ofoundation.nl