Subsidy Opportunities for SME's in the Aviation Sector: R&D Collaboration Projects

The Dutch aviation sector faces the challenge of becoming more sustainable and developing innovative technologies. To support this transition, the Open Calls LiT provides financial support to SMEs collaborating on research and development within the sector.

The application period for R&D Collaboration Projects runs from April 2 to May 6, 2025. Applications are evaluated based on the tender principle, meaning that all timely submitted and complete applications are ranked according to predetermined criteria.

Projects must focus on one or more of the following themes:

• New propulsion systems
• Electric-thermal management
• New design concepts and materials
• Ultra-efficient structural components
• Cost-effective manufacturing technologies for new aircraft configurations beyond 2030

Additionally, collaborations must be balanced in terms of cost distribution and contributions, with a single participant covering a maximum of 70% of the costs. Only costs incurred by SMEs are eligible for subsidies.

Applications are assessed based on four criteria, each with a maximum score of 25 points:

• Innovation: The level of technological innovation or new applications.
• Economic value: The economic value created for participants or the Dutch economy.
• Quality of collaboration: How participants complement each other, their capabilities, and the quality of project organization.
• Positive impact: The contribution to the Aviation in Transition program and the sustainability of aviation.

Interested SMEs can submit their applications from April 2, 2025, via the website of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (NEA). It is advisable to start preparations in time, given the limited application period and the specific requirements of the scheme.

For more details on the scheme, conditions, and application process, visit the NEA page on the temporary LiT subsidy scheme: R&D collaboration project: