Dutch Research Council (NWO) logo
NWO Take-off

Take-off Phase 2 — Early-Stage Loan (Vroegefasetraject)

Invests Netherlands firms in knowledge startups building commercialization-ready products through structured financing and growth-oriented milestones.

OpenDutch Research Council (NWO)Netherlands

Take-off Phase 2 (Vroegefasetrajecten / Early-Stage Routes) provides an interest-bearing loan to Dutch start-ups that have just been initiated by researchers or entrepreneurs from academic, HBO, or TO2 institutions. The loan ranges from EUR 50,000 to EUR 450,000. The project may run up to 24 months, and the loan must be repaid within 8 years with interest.

Phase 2 funds the steps necessary to mak

Dutch start-ups initiated by researchers or entrepreneurs from academic, HBO, or TO2 institutions, developing a knowledge innovation toward commercial viability. All scientific areas eligible.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.30 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.16 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.1–24 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Loan
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€10M

Sign up free to see the funding breakdown

Sign up free to see the industries in scope

Sign up free to see the full eligibility

Sign up free to see how to apply

Sign up free to see what you submit

Sign up free to see how they score you

Sign up free to see the timeline

Sign up free to see where teams trip up

Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.nwo.nl