Transparency

Where things stand

Stichting Helia is in formation. The foundation is being set up with a notary, and registration with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) is in progress. Once registered, Helia will apply for ANBI status (recognized charity, Algemeen Nut Beogende Instelling) with the Dutch tax authority.

Ahead of any of that paperwork, real work has already started: the first batch of materials and a first payment have been sent to makers in Syria.

How the money moves

Helia gives makers materials and a first payment when an agreement is made, so they are paid for their time regardless of how the pieces turn out. A second payment follows once the work is delivered.

Pieces are sold, mostly to businesses that want to carry work with a story. The proceeds first cover Helia’s running costs. Whatever remains is shared three ways: with the maker’s community, with a local charity where she lives, and with sustaining and growing Helia’s future projects. No part of it goes to anyone’s personal pocket.

Read the full journey of a piece on the making page.

Every piece will be traceable

Each piece carries a unique ID recording who made it, what it’s made of, and when. A feature to look up a specific piece by its ID is being built and will be added here.

Organization

Once Stichting Helia is registered, this page will show:

• KvK registration number and RSIN
• ANBI status, once granted
• Board members and how the foundation is governed
• The foundation’s policy plan
• Annual activity and financial reports, published every year

A note on related organizations

Helia’s founders are also involved in Iets Ervaan B.V., a separate retail and workshop company. The foundation and the company are kept financially and administratively separate. Board members with a stake in the company recuse themselves from any foundation decision that would benefit it directly.

Questions

Ask us anything through the contact form.