Sustainable employability subsidy for companies: what exactly?

Since September 1, 2023, companies can apply for the sustainable employability subsidy for companies. This subsidy is intended for activities that increase the sustainable employability of employees. These can be various activities. Such as developing a method or new way of working, organizing a training course or conducting research. But it can also be an activity that gives employees a better grip on their career or supports lifelong learning. Companies can now apply for subsidies for these activities.

How does the sustainable employability grant work for companies?

This year, 82.5 million euros are available for projects by companies. Those projects must focus on one or more of the following themes:

• Healthy, safe and vital work;
• Good employment practices and good commissioning practices;
• Lifelong development and labor mobility;
• Awareness and self-direction of workers on their careers.

Companies can apply for the grant through Nov. 30, 2023. Are you interested but don't have time to apply, for example? Then you can also do it next year. In 2024 there will be another period in which you can apply for the subsidy. When exactly that is will be announced later this year.

Here's how to apply for the grant

Step 1: Conduct a business analysis

A business analysis helps you identify bottlenecks around sustainable employability. It also gives a picture of what activities could help.

Step 2: Create an activity plan

An activity plan is a project plan to improve sustainable employability for your organization. In the activity plan, you describe the activities that will solve the bottlenecks identified in the business analysis. The activity plan also includes a budget.

Step 3: Register as a grant applicant

To apply for a subsidy, first create your own account on the Subsidy Portal Execution Of Policy. The link to the subsidy portal can be found on the website of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment. There you will also find a manual that explains everything step by step.

Step 4: Submit the grant application

To do this, fill out the electronic application form that is in your own account in the grant portal. Attach the business analysis, activity plan and budget. After 13 weeks the decision on your application will follow.