News item | 31-03-2026 | 15:43
SME entrepreneurs and partnerships will soon be able to apply for a subsidy again via the SLIM scheme. With this scheme, entrepreneurs can invest in learning and development within their company. Consider drawing up a training plan or introducing a method for development interviews.
New application periods in 2026
For SMEs there are two time periods in 2026:
- from April 7, 9 a.m. to May 4, 5 p.m
- from August 10, 9 a.m. to September 7, 5 p.m
For the period from April 2026, the subsidy ceiling has been set at € 11 million.
There is one time period for partnerships in 2026:
- from June 8, 9 a.m. to July 6, 5 p.m
Drawing of lots for partnerships
The order of treatment for the partnerships changes. Applications will no longer be processed in order of receipt, but from now on by lottery.
The change is necessary because last year’s budget for partnerships was exhausted within minutes of opening. As a result, many applicants were not considered. With the lottery method, the application process becomes the same as for applications from SMEs.
More information and requests
Would you like to take advantage of the SLIM scheme? Then keep the publication in the Government Gazette and the UVB website keep an eye out for official openings and changes. You will also find inspiring examples, conditions and the application form on the UVB website.
