Project subsidy for local initiatives

The municipality of Oirschot supports local initiatives through its project subsidy scheme. From playground equipment and heritage projects to youth activities: the fund helps turn ideas into reality. Due to its success, the scheme has been extended until December 31, 2027.

Safe playground equipment for football club De Bocht

Edwin Baeten, chairman of football club De Bocht, explains how the club discovered the project subsidy in 2025: “During the fair, we spoke with an alderman. In that conversation, our old wooden playground equipment came up—it had been deemed unsafe and was no longer approved. The alderman pointed us to the project subsidy, which might offer a solution. That’s when we decided to submit an application.”

Application process

The application process proved to be straightforward and was well supported by the municipality. “We didn’t have much experience with subsidies, but this went smoothly,” says Baeten. “Within a few weeks, we received good news. With the €1,500 subsidy, we can replace the old equipment with a new and safe version, which will be installed soon.”

Safe play

The new playground equipment is important for the club. “We currently don’t have youth teams, so it’s especially important to give children and parents who visit our club a warm feeling. With the new equipment, children can play safely while their parents watch or play football. We’re creating a place where families can come together and feel connected to our club,” says Edwin Baeten. The club is enthusiastic about what the project subsidy makes possible and encourages other associations and residents to explore it as well. “We weren’t familiar with the fund, and the same might be true for others.”

Local heritage society makes space accessible to everyone

Bert van Essen, chairman of local heritage society Heemkundekring Den Beerschen Aard, explains how the municipal subsidy in 2025 allowed the association to install a stairlift in the association’s space, De Schelft. “This attic is essential for our archival work and working groups, but the steep stairs made it difficult for some members and visitors to reach the space. Thanks to the subsidy, we were able to install a stairlift, making the attic accessible to everyone.”

Major expense

The €3,500 investment in the stairlift was a significant expense for the association with nearly 200 members, but thanks to the subsidy, it was covered. Mark Timmermans, a member of the heritage society, says: “Now, less mobile members can actively participate in archival work and working groups, increasing the inclusivity of our association. Everyone, regardless of physical limitations, can contribute to preserving our local heritage.”

Proud

Timmermans was, in 2012 as a municipal councillor for the CDA, the initiator of the project subsidy to support local associations and foundations in realizing their ideas. He is proud to see how his initiative is making a real difference. “The positive impact of the subsidy is wonderful to see, even for our heritage association,” says Timmermans.

Fun and connection in Spoordonk

Spoordonk Youth Foundation has been bringing fun and connection to the youngest residents of Spoordonk for 65 years. The volunteer group organizes monthly activities for children from groups 1 to 8, such as scavenger hunts, craft evenings, and the Sinterklaas parade. The highlight of the year is the annual autumn camp.

Happy faces

During this camp, children spend two to three days filled with games, creativity, and teamwork. There are themed games, a variety show, nighttime scavenger hunts, and craft activities. Last year’s theme was ‘space,’ with children designing their own planets, costumes, and performances. Board member Pieter van Nunen sees how valuable the camp is: “You can see the children truly flourish. Bonds between them grow, and parents get to know each other better. And at the end of the day, seeing all those happy faces… that’s what it’s all about.”

Sustainable impact

The project subsidy of around €4,000 helped the foundation keep the autumn camp accessible and affordable, so every child can participate. The grant supports materials, venues, and other organizational costs. Van Nunen notes the lasting impact: “Children who graduate from primary school often return as volunteers. That really shows how important this foundation is for Spoordonk.”

Have an idea? Here’s what you need to know

What does the project subsidy entail?

• Support for one-time initiatives that contribute to strengthening the Oirschot community, such as enhancing social cohesion, livability, and culture.
• Intended for projects that do not involve ongoing costs.
• Costs for permits, consumables, and indirect business expenses are not reimbursed.

How many projects are supported?

• Over the past three years, 76 local initiatives have been subsidized through the project subsidy. In 2023, 22 initiatives were supported with a total of €100,000. In 2024, 27 initiatives received a total of €146,000. In 2025, 27 initiatives were also supported, with a total amount of €140,000.

Who can apply for the subsidy?

• The subsidy is available to residents of Oirschot, associations, foundations, and other organizations committed to the community. Resident initiatives are also eligible.

Do you have an idea for the municipality of Oirschot?

• The project subsidy gives you the chance to turn your idea into reality. The application process is simple. Explore the possibilities and inspiring examples of projects at www.oirschot.nl/subsidies-evenementen-projecten.
• Unsure if your project qualifies? Contact the subsidy team at (0499) 58 33 33 or info@oirschot.nl for advice and more information.