A golden opportunity for clubs: making progress in sustainability with Rabo ClubSupport

Local clubs and community organisations are the beating heart of society. They bring people together, energise communities and encourage sport, culture and social connection. Yet many clubs face challenges such as outdated buildings, high energy costs and limited resources to invest in sustainability. Through Rabo ClubSupport, Rabobank offers more than just financial backing. With the help of partners like NOC*NSF and CFP Green Buildings, clubs receive expert guidance to take action on sustainability, club development and member engagement.

More than money: tailored sustainability support for every club

The role of clubs in society is invaluable and deserves ongoing support. That’s why Rabo ClubSupport goes beyond funding alone. Through its support programme, clubs can take part in workshops, masterclasses and one-on-one guidance, tailored to the specific situation of each club.

Why? Because Rabobank sees that many clubs are motivated to become more sustainable but don’t always know where to start. That’s where CFP Green Buildings comes in. As expert partner, CFP helps clubs draw up plans, carry out energy scans and apply for subsidies.

“We want to help clubs become futureproof,” says Lonneke Kerr-Verhaegh of Rabobank. “It’s about more than just energy. It’s also about strengthening the social value of clubs, building loyalty, and creating a safe, healthy space for everyone involved.”

Three clear paths to a more sustainable club

Together with CFP, Rabobank offers three different types of support, depending on each club’s goals and needs:

1. Energy savings scan
   This starts with an on-site intake and a technical scan. How does the building perform in terms of insulation, lighting, heating and energy use? Based on the scan, the club receives an action list with suitable measures, estimated investment, expected carbon savings and subsidy advice.
2. Technical deep dive
   This is designed for clubs that already know what they want, such as installing a heat pump or solar panels. In this case, CFP helps explore the technical feasibility and next steps, from options to implementation.
3. Broader sustainability programme (BREEAM-NL Light)
   This track uses the BREEAM methodology as a framework for tackling more than just energy. Clubs explore areas such as material use, water, mobility, behaviour, circular procurement and awareness. CFP supports the club in developing an action plan, applying for funding, and even communicating with members and sponsors.

Each trajectory is based on achievable steps that align with the club’s motivation and ambition.
Pien ter Beek of CFP Green Buildings explains: “We guide the process, but the power lies with the club itself. If the motivation is there, the results can be remarkable.”

From cultural centre to hockey club: real-life examples

Cultural centre De Nieuwe Kolk (DNK)

What does this look like in practice? DNK, a cultural centre in Assen, has worked on sustainability for years. With support from Rabobank and CFP, DNK identified opportunities to improve both the organisation and the building. From LED lighting and a sedum roof to solar panels and coffee grounds recycling, DNK shows what’s possible with a clear plan and strong collaboration.

Ron Koelma, Health & Safety and Sustainability Coordinator at DNK, stresses the importance of insight and cooperation: “We measure what we do, set new goals and make sure sustainability is embedded in the organisation. Working with the right partners is essential to achieve that.”

Hockey club MMHC Voordaan

Sustainability is also a top priority for hockey club MMHC Voordaan in Groenekan. With the ambition of becoming the most circular hockey club in the Netherlands, Voordaan created a roadmap in partnership with CFP. The club now focuses on five key areas: energy, water, food, environment, and waste & materials.

This approach is already delivering concrete results: recycled kits, waterless urinals, a circular kitchen, and the use of surface water instead of drinking water to irrigate the pitches, saving around 12 million litres per year. “It’s about the whole chain: from recycled sportswear to circular food practices,” says Frits van Lingen of Voordaan. “Thanks to our partners, we’re making real progress.”

Sustainability as a team effort

The stories of DNK and Voordaan show what clubs can achieve when they receive support in terms of content, technology and organisation. Rabobank plays a connecting role: facilitating initiatives, sharing knowledge and bringing in trusted experts where needed. “We don’t claim to have all the answers as Rabobank,” says Lonneke Kerr-Verhaegh. “But we are committed to making an impact. And for that, we look for the right partnerships. CFP Green Buildings is one of those valuable expert partners.” NOC*NSF also plays a vital role by identifying which clubs need help and ensuring they receive the right support at the right time.

Be inspired

Whether you’re just getting started or already have plans in motion, every club can move forward on sustainability. With the right guidance, clear motivation and strong partnerships, making a meaningful impact is within reach.

Want to explore what’s possible for your club or organisation?
Get in touch with us to learn more about how CFP Green Buildings supports futureproof initiatives across the community sector.

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Header photo credits: Richard Broekhuijzen