EU Announces New Funding for AI Innovation in the Netherlands
The Hague, Tuesday, 14 October 2025.
The European Commission has launched new funding opportunities under the Digital Europe Programme to support AI projects in the Netherlands, aiming to enhance innovation and digital skills.
Funding Opportunities and Objectives
On October 13, 2025, the European Commission announced new funding opportunities under the Digital Europe Programme aimed at supporting AI projects in the Netherlands. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance digital technology capabilities across Europe by focusing on artificial intelligence, data management, cloud technologies, and digital skills enhancement. The programme, with a total budget of over €8.1 billion, is designed to stimulate innovation across various sectors, particularly benefiting public administrations and private enterprises looking to implement advanced AI solutions [1][2].
Details of the Funding Programme
The funding calls are structured into multiple rounds over the period 2025-2027. The first set of calls commenced on April 15, 2025, and closed on October 2, 2025, with the second set opening on November 4, 2025, and closing on March 3, 2026. These calls are tailored to different areas such as digital solutions for regulatory compliance, data spaces for manufacturing and skills, and the testing of generative AI applications under real-world conditions. The programme also emphasizes the development of sectoral digital skills academies to enhance workforce capabilities [1].
Implications for the Dutch Economy
The funding is strategically designed to boost the Netherlands’ position in the digital economy by fostering innovation and technological advancement. By providing financial support to both public and private sectors, the initiative aims to address existing gaps in digital capabilities and enhance competitiveness. Notably, the funding is expected to facilitate the development of AI applications that can be scaled and tested in real-world scenarios, thereby promoting economic growth and creating new job opportunities in the tech industry [1][2].
Support and Resources for Applicants
To assist potential applicants, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and the Netherlands Cybersecurity Coordination Center (NCC-NL) offer guidance on the application process. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the Funding & Tenders Portal for detailed information on application deadlines, budget allocations, and eligibility criteria. The initiative underscores the EU’s commitment to fostering a robust digital ecosystem that supports innovation, economic resilience, and technological sovereignty [1].