How do you apply for a subsidy?

Subsidy search

Start by looking for subsidies. For example, from the Dutch government or the European Union. Use the Netherlands Investment Agency's subsidy guide. You can also find information about relevant subsidies on Business.gov.nl. Subsidies are linked to important government policy topics. For example, sustainability, innovation or (international) cooperation. In the subsidy guide, you can search by topic or region.

Check the conditions of the subsidy scheme

Have you found a subsidy? Read the information about the scheme carefully. On the subsidy website, for example, you can find the conditions you need to meet. Check whether your company fits the requirements. And find out when you will receive the money. Sometimes you only get the money at the end of a project. Then you first have to spend the money yourself. Do you have questions about the conditions? Contact the subsidy provider.

Writing a subsidy application

You usually apply for a subsidy online via the provider's website. You then fill in various application documents. You will often need eHerkenning to download and submit them. This allows you to log in securely with a government organisation.

Provide the documents required by the subsidy provider. For example, a description of your (project) plan, a business plan, and a financial plan. What you need to supply is very similar to the components of a financing application. Depending on the type of subsidy, you need to provide special information or documents. 

Have you submitted everything? Then you will receive a confirmation of receipt. This will state the period within which you will receive a response to the application.

The decision

The subsidy provider will assess your plan. The outcome is called a decision. It can be positive or negative.

• Positive decision: the subsidy provider will put money into your plan. The decision will tell you how much money you will get, when you will get it, and how you will get it. Sometimes you get the amount in advance, but usually only after completion of the project.
• Negative decision: the grant provider indicates that your project does not fit the scheme. Or that there is no money left in the subsidy pot. As an applicant, you can object to the rejection. The decision will tell you how to do this.

Sometimes the subsidy provider needs more information. Then you will receive a question letter. Answer these questions in time.

Keep records

If you receive a subsidy, you have to keep project records. The subsidy provider wants to know what happens to the money. So record your activities and expenses properly. The decision usually specifies the guidelines you have to follow.

Final declaration

Are you awarded a subsidy after the project has been completed? Then the subsidy provider will determine the exact amount you will receive through the final statement. You make a final overview of all costs with all supporting documents attached. For example, invoices and bank statements.

Determination decision

The final decision states the definitive amount of the grant you will receive. The subsidy provider uses the final statement to determine that amount. Did you receive more money during the project than stated in the final statement? Then you have to repay that part. Keep your project records handy. You can be audited, even after the determination decision.

Help with business financing

The Financing Guide helps you find your way in financing your business. Do you still have questions? Call the helpline on 088 585 11 11 or ask an expert.