In the past years, we have helped many entrepreneurs apply for the SME fund from the EU, which allowed the registration of trademarks and designs. Unfortunately, that fund is no longer available, however there are many more subsidies available for businesses. These are not always aimed directly at trademark registrations, but they do offer excellent opportunities to support the international expansion of your business.
We want our clients to take full advantage of these opportunities and support them as much as possible with the use of our network. If you are interested in exploring subsidy options, please contact us, and we will be happy to connect you with our “subsidy partner.” But before that, here’s some practical information so that you can roughly assess whether your business qualifies for the various subsidy schemes.
The internationalization subsidy: Support International Business (SIB)
For entrepreneurs looking to enter foreign markets, the internationalization subsidy may provide the necessary financial support. This subsidy is aimed at companies ready to expand internationally and who have a clear understanding of the countries where they see opportunities. Furthermore, the subsidy can also be used for trademark applications outside of the Benelux.
Who is eligible for the internationalization subsidy?
The subsidy is intended for SMEs in the Netherlands that meet the following conditions:
- Are a legal entity (e.g., B.V., N.V., Foundation, or Association);
- Offer their own product or service;
- Have the ambition and capacity to enter international markets;
- Have a clear understanding of which foreign market is most suitable for their product or service.
The subsidy is not intended for:
- Companies without legal personality (e.g., CV, VOF, Sole Proprietorship);
- Companies that market products of others;
- Companies without concrete international plans;
- Financing of already incurred costs.
Subsidy Amount
The subsidy covers 50% of the costs of a trademark application abroad, up to a maximum of €2.500 per application (excluding VAT), with a maximum of €6.500 per year. For example, if you wish to submit an international trademark application in several countries, and the costs are €6.000, you will receive a maximum reimbursement of €2.500.
Timing
The subsidy can only be used for costs incurred after the submission of the application. You cannot apply for reimbursement retroactively. The process is as follows: provide a quote for the expected costs, submit the application, then proceed with the application.
What is required for the application?
- IBAN bank account number
- Contact details of the applicant (initials, surname, phone number)
- A quote for the costs covered by the subsidy
Additionally, the subsidy advisory agency works with a signed agreement to formalize the application. The agency operates on a transparent no cure, no pay basis, with a 15% fee based on the granted subsidy amount. This means you only pay if the subsidy is issued.
Other Subsidy Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
In addition to the SME and SIB subsidies, there are numerous other funding programmes that support entrepreneurs in innovation, sustainability and development. Below, we list some examples of the most relevant programmes.
1. Innovation Subsidies for Technical Developments
If your company is working on innovative products or technologies, you can benefit from subsidies aimed at research and development. These schemes are ideal for companies developing new hardware or software, solving technical challenges, or testing innovative products.
What does this subsidy offer?
- Discounts on salary costs for employees involved in research and development;
- Funding for developing prototypes, testing and research projects.
These subsidies make it more attractive for businesses to invest in groundbreaking technology without the financial risks being too high.
2. Subsidies for Feasibility Studies
Before launching a new project, it’s essential to assess its feasibility. Subsidies for feasibility studies support you to evaluate the technical and commercial potential of your plans.
What is supported?
- Conducting market research;
- Investigating the legal, economic, and technical feasibility;
- Developing and testing prototypes.
These subsidies allow you to conduct thorough research before moving forward with a new project.
3. Sustainability and Circular Subsidies
More and more businesses are taking steps toward a circular economy. Whether you’re working on extending the lifespan of products, recycling materials, or minimizing waste, subsidies are available to support sustainable initiatives.
What can you do with these subsidies?
- Test circular processes within your business;
- Invest in technologies that enable reuse;
- Develop innovative solutions contributing to a cleaner future.
These subsidies help businesses not only to make their operations more sustainable but also to become leaders in the circular economy.
4. Subsidies for Employee Training
Developing your team is crucial for the growth of your business. Employers who invest in the training and upskilling of their employees can benefit from subsidies that partially cover training costs.
What can you achieve with these subsidies?
- Organize training and courses for employees;
- Screening the organization, where are the development needs of employees;
- Improve internal knowledge and skills.
We are happy to assist in the development of your business and connect you with the right subsidy opportunities. Contact us to discover which subsidies can help your business grow.
