Secretary of State Mona Keijzer (Economic Affairs and Climate): “In supporting entrepreneurs and researchers during this crisis, we must focus on both the short and long term. In this regard, the cabinet has a clear focus on innovation: where are the opportunities for future jobs and income? With this targeted financial support, the mobility sector can begin developing new smart and sustainable solutions even during the corona crisis. This not only contributes to the competitiveness of the Netherlands but also to economic recovery in the long term. The Netherlands is a European innovation leader, and we want to remain so.”

The scheme is aimed at stimulating collaborations between SMEs, large companies, and knowledge institutions in the mobility sector. Investments in research and development are of great importance for innovation capacity and make a significant contribution to the sectors sustainability challenges. Collaborations of at least two companies, or a company and a knowledge institution, can submit a project proposal to the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), which implements the scheme on behalf of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate. An advisory committee will assess the projects.

A project must focus on industrial research or experimental development and have at least five million euros in eligible costs. The subsidy is intended for research and development projects (R&D) that can start in the short term and have a maximum duration of four years. The committee is expected to provide advice to the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate in October this year regarding the selection of projects. Based on this advice, the ministry will decide which projects qualify for funding.