New Design Sector Internationalisation Grant Scheme 2025-2028: the main changes

budget range

The new grant scheme uses a clear budget range. You can apply for a grant with a minimum grant request of € 10,000 and a maximum grant request of € 50,000. Additionally, at least 20% of the total project costs must be covered by co-financing. For projects under € 10,000, you can apply to the Creative Industries Kick-start Grant Scheme.

maximum numbers and order of receipt

An important change is that we will limit the number of applications we take into consideration to a maximum of 40. Within this, there is room for a maximum of 10 follow-up applications and a maximum of 10 revised applications.

Applications are evaluated in order of submission against the entry requirements. If your application is complete, meets the entry requirements and the maximum number of applications has not yet been reached, it will be taken into consideration. This means that the timing of submitting your application is important. So, make sure you prepare and submit your application on time and in full when a subsidy period opens.

Another new requirement is that after receiving a grant through this scheme, an applicant cannot submit a new application under the same scheme for a period of 12 months. This period begins on the date of the decision letter.

safe travel and countries with sanctions

The grant scheme has been adjusted regarding international travel. As in our previous policy period, grants cannot be used for travel to areas with a red travel advisory. New is that we cannot support activities in countries where sanctions apply that prevent the safe and proper execution of a project. For this, we refer applicants to the EU sanctions map country list.

artist-in-residence

In the new grant scheme, applications specifically aimed at an artist-in-residence program will no longer be considered. Soon we will publish a series of residencies through open calls.

consultation hour and opening subsidy period

The grant scheme opens on April 10, at 10:00 AM. To inform applicants about the scheme and provide an opportunity to ask questions, we are organising an online consultation hour on Thursday, April 3.

Are you wondering why the Fund is making various changes to grant schemes and procedures? Read the interview with our executive director Syb Groeneveld.