Exhibiting abroad is an investment. Stand space, stand construction, freight and travel all add up. Many Dutch companies do not know that the Dutch government can contribute to part of these costs. In this article I explain how the SIB scheme works and what it can mean for your participation.

What is SIB?

SIB stands for Support International Business. It is a subsidy scheme of RVO, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency, for small and medium sized Dutch companies that want to grow abroad. The scheme replaced the former mission vouchers and consists of several parts. For exhibitors, two of them are relevant.

Read the full scheme and the current conditions on the RVO website: Support International Business (SIB) on rvo.nl.

SIB Collective Activity

This part supports participation in a collective trade fair entry or a trade mission, organised by a Dutch third party together with other companies.

• The contribution is 50% of the participation fee, up to €2,500 for a trade fair and up to €1,500 for a trade mission.

• For trade fairs or missions with a green theme, the contribution can be up to 80%.

• The activity must be publicly announced, last more than one day and have at least five participating companies.

• The organiser may not be connected to your company.

SIB Individual Trade Fair Participation

Would you rather exhibit with your own stand? This part covers 50% of the costs of stand rental and stand construction, up to €2,500. The trade fair must be aimed at international exhibitors and visitors.

What is not covered

Travel and accommodation costs are not covered by either scheme. The total contribution is limited to €6,500 per company per year.

Who can apply?

Small and medium sized companies registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce, in any sector. You must already know which foreign market you want to focus on. Sole proprietorships and partnerships, such as a VOF, are not eligible.

How to apply

1. Request a quotation from the organiser with the participation fee.

2. Submit your application to RVO within three months of receiving the quotation, and always before the trade fair starts.

3. You need eHerkenning level 2+ to apply online.

RVO handles applications in order of receipt, as long as there is budget available. Applying early is therefore important.

Budget status

At the time of writing, in October 2026, the budget for 2026 has been used. RVO opens a new budget in January 2027. If you are planning to exhibit in 2027, it is wise to prepare your application now so you can submit it as soon as the new budget opens.

Good to know

Subsidy rules change regularly. Always check the current conditions on rvo.nl before you apply. Do you have a question about subsidy for one of our exhibitions? Please contact me, I am happy to think along with you.