wbso celebrates 30 years as leading innovation subsidy
The WBSO, a key innovation subsidy in the Netherlands, marks its 30th anniversary. In 2023, it supported €8.7 billion in R&D investments, creating nearly 94,000 high-quality jobs.
Historical Impact and Growth
Since its inception in 1994, the Wet Bevordering Speur- en Ontwikkelingswerk (WBSO) has been instrumental in driving research and development (R&D) within Dutch businesses. Initially aimed at reducing the financial burden on companies engaging in R&D, the WBSO has grown substantially over the past three decades. The scheme has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of the industry, including expanding its scope to cover a broad range of technologies such as artificial intelligence, energy materials, hydrogen, semiconductors, and quantum technologies.
Record-Breaking Year
In 2023, the WBSO achieved a record-breaking €8.7 billion in R&D investments, a significant increase of €500 million from 2022 and over €1 billion more than in the years 2019, 2020, and 2021[1]. This surge highlights the growing importance of innovation in the Dutch economy and the WBSO’s pivotal role in facilitating this growth. The increase in funding can be attributed to several factors, including rising labor costs due to a shortage of IT professionals and the indexation of the WBSO budget to account for wage and price increases[2].
Creating High-Quality Jobs
The WBSO’s impact extends beyond financial investments; it has also played a crucial role in job creation. Nearly 94,000 high-quality jobs were supported through WBSO-funded projects in 2023, an increase of almost 900 positions compared to the previous year[2]. This growth underscores the scheme’s effectiveness in fostering a robust R&D environment that not only drives innovation but also enhances employment opportunities.
Support for SMEs
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the primary beneficiaries of the WBSO, with 97% of the nearly 20,000 companies utilizing the subsidy in 2023 falling into this category[1]. The focus on SMEs is a testament to the WBSO’s commitment to nurturing innovation at all levels of the business ecosystem. By providing financial relief, the WBSO enables these smaller companies to undertake ambitious R&D projects, contributing to the broader economic growth and technological advancement of the Netherlands.
Looking Forward
As the WBSO enters its fourth decade, its role in the Dutch innovation landscape remains as critical as ever. The scheme’s continued success is a reflection of its adaptability and the strong support from the government and industry stakeholders. With ongoing investments and a focus on cutting-edge technologies, the WBSO is poised to drive further advancements and maintain the Netherlands’ position as a leader in global innovation.