The Municipality of Maastricht is reopening the Subsidy Scheme to Promote Circular Entrepreneurship for 2026 and beyond. The council has decided to continue supporting entrepreneurs in developing circular innovations and reducing waste streams. Through this scheme, the municipality contributes to the further development of a sustainable and future-proof economy.

Why this scheme?

The transition to a circular economy proceeds in small steps, as shown by the Provincial Circular Economy Monitor (IPO, October 2025). Especially SMEs risk falling behind. Therefore, Maastricht offers financial support to help entrepreneurs put circular ideas into practice, stimulate collaborations, and raise awareness among residents.

Goal and target group

The scheme targets SME entrepreneurs, startups, organizations, and creative makers. Collaborations can also apply. The goal is to support innovative projects that contribute to material reuse, waste reduction, and cooperation between companies, education, and designers.

Applications

  • Start date: 2 February 2026
  • Subsidy ceiling: € 75,000
  • Applications are processed in order of receipt until the ceiling is reached.

Focus areas

The municipality emphasizes three production chains that fit Maastricht:

  • Textiles: innovation in sustainable materials and recycling.
  • Food: preventing waste and promoting local, sustainable products.
  • Industry: cooperation via the Circular Platform SIM for reuse of residual flows.

 Hubert Mackus, alderman for economy: “With this scheme, we give entrepreneurs concrete space to implement circular solutions and build our future together. By focusing on innovation, cooperation, and awareness, we make Maastricht more sustainable and stronger.”

With this subsidy scheme and ongoing initiatives – such as the Circular Textile Workshop and the digital circular platform for industrial estates – Maastricht strengthens the practical implementation of the circular transition.

More information

Entrepreneurs can submit an application from 2 February 2026 via the municipal subsidy website.