€41 million fund opens to boost cycling safety across the Netherlands
The Dutch government is launching a €41 million subsidy programme to tackle rising cycling accidents. With cyclists making up 71% of serious traffic injuries, the initiative aims to fund innovative solutions and improve road safety for all.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Subsidy Amount | €41 million |
| Programme Name | Cycling Safety First |
| Managed By | ZonMw |
| Target Groups | Governments, knowledge institutions, market parties, civil society orgs |
| Focus Areas | Reducing risky behaviour, fall risks, and expanding safety knowledge |
| First Subsidy Rounds | Expected Q2 2026 |
| Cycling Injuries | 71% of all serious traffic injuries involve cyclists |
| Programme Duration | 2026–2030 |
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management oversees national policies for road safety, including cycling infrastructure and traffic regulations. ZonMw, the programme manager, bridges research, policy, and practical solutions to enhance public health and safety outcomes.
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Launch of €41 million subsidy to improve cycling safety
On Wednesday afternoon, Minister Robert Tieman (Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management) will officially launch the subsidy programme ‘Cycling Safety First’. A total of €41 million is available for organisations with strong plans to improve cycling safety.
Minister Tieman: “The figures don’t lie. The number of traffic fatalities among cyclists has been rising for years, and cyclists account for 71% of all serious traffic injuries – by far the largest group. There is a huge opportunity here. The government is already investing in safer cycle paths, setting requirements for vehicles before they are allowed on the road, and running campaigns on helmet use and against mobile phone use while driving. This subsidy is an additional step: with ‘Cycling Safety First’, we are encouraging governments, knowledge institutions, market parties and civil society organisations to work together on turning the tide.”
The subsidy programme is managed by ZonMw. Managing Director Véronique Timmerhuis: “With ‘Cycling Safety First’, we are bringing science, practice and policy together. ZonMw ensures that the knowledge gained is put to use where it makes a difference: on the streets, among professionals and in the daily lives of cyclists. This is how we connect and accelerate effective measures to improve cycling safety.”
Testing practical solutions and gathering new knowledge
The first two subsidy rounds are expected to open in the second quarter of 2026. One round will focus on reducing risky behaviour or fall risks related to cycling. This covers initiatives that already exist in society but whose effectiveness has not yet been proven. Examples include tricycles, training for older adults or local behaviour campaigns.
The other round will focus on expanding knowledge about cycling safety. Specifically, it will seek new and effective cycling safety measures. Think of measures to reduce congestion on cycle paths, prevent single-bicycle accidents and make roads safer.
Follow-up
‘Cycling Safety First’ is part of the Multi-Year Cycling Safety Plan. Between 2026 and 2030, subsidies will be awarded in multiple rounds.
In addition to subsidies for the above practical solutions, funding will also be available to improve knowledge sharing between policy, practice and research. For example, for organising conferences or knowledge sessions for various parties.