Expanding into international markets offers significant opportunities for innovative SMEs. However, entering a new market often involves substantial uncertainty and risk. Is there sufficient demand for your product or service? Will your technology perform effectively in a different market environment? And is investing in a foreign production facility or local presence financially viable?

The DHI Subsidy helps Dutch SMEs answer these questions and take the next step towards international growth with greater confidence.

In 2026, a total budget of €8.5 million is available. Applications can be submitted from 2 March 2026 until 31 December 2026, while funding remains available.

What is the DHI Subsidy?

DHI stands for Demonstration Projects, Feasibility Studies and Investment Preparation Projects. In addition, the programme also supports startups through market validation activities.

The scheme is designed for Dutch SMEs that want to introduce, validate, commercialise or scale their products, services or technologies in international markets. By providing financial support, the Dutch government helps companies reduce the risks associated with international expansion.

Depending on the project type, the subsidy covers 50% to 70% of eligible project costs.

Demonstration Projects: Prove Your Solution Works

A demonstration project enables companies to showcase their product, service or technology to potential customers and stakeholders abroad.

The objective is not only to demonstrate technical performance but also to prove that the solution is effective, commercially viable and suitable for implementation within the target country.

Funding for demonstration projects can reach up to €200,000.

For many innovative businesses, a successful demonstration project serves as an important stepping stone towards international sales and market adoption.

Feasibility Studies: Build Confidence with Potential Customers

When interest already exists from a potential customer or investor, a feasibility study can provide the evidence needed to support future investment decisions.

A feasibility study assesses whether a proposed investment involving your product or service is technically, financially and operationally feasible. This may include evaluating technical requirements, economic viability, local regulations and implementation conditions.

The maximum subsidy amount is €100,000.

Companies may also investigate two separate investment opportunities for two potential customers within a single study.

Investment Preparation Projects: Explore International Investments

Companies considering the establishment of a foreign production facility or operational presence can apply for support through an investment preparation project.

These projects focus on assessing the feasibility of a planned international investment. Activities may include evaluating locations, production processes, logistics, staffing requirements, regulatory considerations, financing structures and market opportunities.

A limited pilot or test production activity may also form part of the project where relevant.

The maximum subsidy available is €100,000.

Market Validation for Startups

The DHI programme also supports startups that are less than ten years old and looking to enter a new international market.

Through a market validation project, startups collaborate with a local partner that possesses relevant market expertise. The aim is to identify and overcome technical, commercial, legal and economic barriers before committing to larger-scale investments.

For many startups, market validation provides valuable insights that significantly improve the chances of successful international expansion.

Why Starting Early Matters

Although applications can be submitted until the end of 2026, funding is awarded while budget remains available. Waiting too long may therefore reduce your chances of securing support.

In addition, a successful DHI application requires more than a promising idea. Applicants must clearly demonstrate:

• why the target market is attractive;
• what market demand exists;
• what economic impact is expected;
• why the project is necessary;
• how the project contributes to the international growth of the company.

A strong strategic and commercial rationale often makes the difference between a successful and unsuccessful application.

How The Future Can Help

At The Future, we support companies in transforming international ambitions into well-structured projects and successful funding applications.

We assist organisations with assessing project eligibility, strengthening the business case, developing project plans and preparing compelling applications that align with the programme’s evaluation criteria.

Our support extends beyond the application process. International expansion requires a clear roadmap, a realistic market-entry strategy and a solid understanding of the next steps towards commercialisation and investment. By combining funding expertise, project development and strategic advisory services, we help companies turn innovative ideas into executable international growth projects.

Considering International Expansion?

Are you planning to enter a new international market, demonstrate your technology abroad, validate a business opportunity or prepare an overseas investment?

Or are you unsure whether your project qualifies for the DHI Subsidy?

Feel free to contact us. We are happy to discuss your plans, assess the opportunities and determine whether the DHI programme is the right fit for your international ambitions.