ValidSign sponsors the Stadium Run for accessible seating
The Stadium Run is a national initiative where sport, solidarity, and impact come together. With one goal: bringing people, both literally and figuratively, closer to a full place in society.
Although ValidSign had been part of Nijhuis Bouw for some time, its full potential remained untapped. Silje picked up the gauntlet. She recognised that the existing integration did not fully align with the internal processes of the branches. "It would be a waste not to introduce digital signing. The workflow just needs to fit our processes, and that is possible," Silje explains.
What motivated you to become a sponsor of the Stadium Run?
ValidSign's motivation to become a sponsor is actually very personal and comes straight from the heart. In 2022, John Lageman, founder of ValidSign, suffered a serious cycling accident that left him with an incomplete spinal cord injury. John: "From that moment, everything changed. I experienced firsthand what it is like when your mobility and freedom are suddenly no longer a given. Your world literally and figuratively becomes smaller.
When I heard about the Stadium Run and the causes it supports, such as the accessible seating section, it felt like a direct calling. The idea that we can contribute to a place where people, regardless of their physical limitations, can come together and enjoy sport, moved me deeply. For me, this is not a business decision, but a way to turn my own experience into something positive for others. It is an opportunity to give something back to the community that supported me."
Can you briefly tell us about your organisation and its social vision?
At its core, ValidSign is a company that lowers barriers. With our digital signature software, we make processes faster, simpler, and more accessible. You no longer need to be physically present to sign an important document; you can do it anywhere, anytime. Our social vision aligns seamlessly with this. We believe in a world where everyone can participate, without unnecessary barriers. Whether that is a digital barrier when signing a contract, or a physical threshold at the entrance of a stadium. We want to use technology and resources to promote inclusivity. Simply put: we want to make life a little easier for everyone.
What are you sponsoring and why this specifically?
We deliberately chose to commit ourselves as a sponsor specifically to a donation and thereby the realisation of the accessible seating section and the general organisation of the run. The reason is simple: it perfectly aligns with John's personal story and our company philosophy. The accessible seating section is a tangible symbol of inclusivity. It is a concrete action that directly impacts the quality of life of people with disabilities. It is not about a logo on a shirt, but about creating a place where people feel welcome and valued. By supporting the run itself, we also help make the event possible that finances these wonderful causes.
What appeals to you about the goals of the Stadium Run (such as Rotaplast or the accessible seating section)?
What truly appeals to us is the concrete and local impact. The accessible seating section is the perfect example. It is not an abstract goal far away, but a project right here in the region that directly improves people's lives. John: "I know from personal experience how important it is to remain part of society, to be able to go to a match and soak in the atmosphere. This goal makes that possible.
An initiative like Rotaplast, which helps children, also fits our vision. It is about giving opportunities and removing limitations that prevent a child from living life to the fullest. Both goals revolve around the same core value: creating a better, more inclusive future."
What do you hope to see from this partnership – for your organisation and for society?
John: "For our organisation, I hope this partnership inspires our team. It shows that as a company, we are more than just a software provider. We are a team of people who are an active part of society and want to make a positive contribution. It strengthens our internal culture and gives our work a deeper meaning.
For society, I hope our contribution not only results in a wonderful seating section, but also in greater awareness. Awareness of the challenges people with disabilities face, and the motivation for others to take action as well. Ultimately, the goal is for inclusivity and accessibility to become the norm, not the exception. If we can contribute even a small part to that through this partnership, our mission has been accomplished."
