The Creative Industries Fund NL has announced an exciting funding initiative aimed at empowering spatial designers to collaborate with local stakeholders and develop innovative solutions for regenerative regional development in the Netherlands. The new grant program encourages teamwork across sectors to address pressing spatial and environmental challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Open to spatial designers working in coalition with diverse regional stakeholders.
- Up to 26 initial proposals will each receive €3,000 to develop into full applications.
- Focus on innovative solutions for regenerative regional strategies.
- Application deadline is October 24, 2025.
Grant Program Overview
The Regenerative Regions Grant Program seeks creative approaches that can revitalize Dutch regions through sustainable, community-driven projects. Spatial designers—such as architects, urban planners, and landscape architects—are invited to partner with parties from different backgrounds. Partnerships may include local communities, cooperatives, farmers, entrepreneurs in the circular economy, social organizations, waterboards, heritage experts, and knowledge institutions.
Selected applicants in this initial “canvas phase” will receive up to €3,000 each, supporting the development of a detailed proposal for implementation funding. By fostering cross-sector collaboration, the program aims to ensure projects are impactful, regionally relevant, and inclusive of various perspectives.
Who Can Apply and How?
Eligible applicants must be spatial designers who serve as lead applicants on coalition-based projects. Each coalition should bring together organizations or individuals that reflect the complexity and diversity of the target region. The collaboration must be clearly described, with each partner’s contribution outlined.
To apply, designers must submit:
- A completed application form.
- A detailed project canvas (SPA project canvas format).
- At least one letter of intent from a coalition partner.
The Creative Industries Fund NL will assess proposals based on:
- Clarity of the regional challenge and the research question.
- How the proposal builds on existing knowledge and ongoing discussions.
- The quality and diversity of collaborative partnerships.
- Representation of different regions and demographic groups.
Focus on Diversity and Local Impact
Reviewers will prioritize projects that demonstrate regionally embedded, diverse, and inclusive approaches. Proposals should address a wide range of local challenges, and aim to serve communities while incorporating innovative perspectives. The grant is designed to lay the foundation for actionable, long-lasting regenerative strategies at the regional level.
Timeline and Next Steps
Applications are open until October 24, 2025. Successful candidates will ultimately have the opportunity to transform their project canvases into full-scale implementation projects, supporting regenerative transitions throughout the Netherlands. Further information—including detailed guidelines and application instructions—can be found on the Creative Industries Fund NL website.
