Schemes and subsidies in international business
Are you starting a business abroad, exporting a product or service, or just starting to import? Maybe you need extra financing. The government can help with this. There are various schemes and subsidies available.
Write a business plan
Before you start looking for funding, you first create a business plan. Banks and other institutions often ask for this. You can also use your business plan when applying for a subsidy. In your plan, you describe:
- What exactly do you want to do
- How are you going to approach this
- How much money do you need
Ask RVO for help and advice
The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland, RVO) runs various programmes and schemes for the government. RVO advisors can help you find the right funding. Is there no suitable subsidy available? Then they will look at other options for financing your plan. For example, with international investment companies.
Increase your funding chances with a quick scan
To check if your plans meet the intent of the scheme, you can first use a quick scan. Completing the quick scan takes about 1 hour. Based on the result, an RVO adviser will estimate your chances of a successful application.
For schemes at Invest International, you are required to complete a quick scan first. If the result is positive, you may then apply for the subsidy.
You can find examples of quick scans at the Dutch Trade & Investment Fund and the Dutch Good Growth Fund.
Tool for financing and insurance for international business
Do you have plans to export, invest, or expand abroad? If so, it can be difficult to get financing. The export guide tool (exportwijzer, in Dutch) will give you a good idea of whether you qualify for international financing or export insurance from the government.
International Responsible Business Conduct (IRBC)
Are you going to apply international responsible business conduct (IRBC) during activities abroad? For example, in emerging markets or developing countries? If so, there are additional opportunities for financing. To qualify for financial government support you must comply with the OECD guidelines (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development).