Proof-of-concept funding (VFF)

Do you own or operate an established SME, innovative startup or an academic, hbo or TO2 startup in the Netherlands? You can apply for Proof-of-concept funding (VRoegefasefinanciering, VFF). This loan will enable you to develop your concept or product so that it reaches the start-up phase sooner. You can use it for the development of a working prototype, to conduct market research, or to devise a business plan.

When do you qualify?

To be eligible for the proof-of-concept funding you must fulfil several conditions, such as:

• You are an SME company, an innovative startup or an academic, hbo or TO2 starter, affiliated with a university, college or a university hospital.
• You have a feasible plan showing you will grow substantially.
• You have a declaration of intent from a future investor for at least the same amount as the subsidy you apply for.
• You have not yet started implementing this proof-of-concept phase.

To find out if your plan is eligible for this funding, you can complete the quick scan.

How to apply?

You apply to a regional office if your business is or will be established in 1 of the listed provinces. Is your province not on the list? Then you apply to the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). The 2025 application period runs from 1 January until 31 December 2025, 17:00. 

The Dutch Research Council (NWO) has several calls for academic (WO), HBO and TO2 starters twice a year.