The second call of the Dutch Maritime Master Plan has officially launched. With a total budget of EUR 33.6 million, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is supporting innovative research and demonstration projects that contribute to making the Dutch maritime sector more sustainable and resilient.
Applications may be submitted until 5.00 pm on Tuesday 3 November 2026. Consortia comprising at least two independent companies may submit an application. A maximum of EUR 8 million in funding is available per project.
The scheme focuses on the development and demonstration of ships powered by alternative energy sources such as hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, bioethanol and carbon capture solutions linked to LNG or methanol systems. Both new-build and retrofit projects are eligible for funding.
Also read: Maritime Master Plan funding for carbon capture on LNG vessel
Two categories
The available budget is divided into two categories:
- EUR 12 million for research and demonstration projects with a grant application of less than €4 million.
- EUR 21.6 million for projects with a grant application of €4 million or more.
Also read: Digital experts unite for Maritime Master Plan
Next phase of the energy transition
‘This second call shows that the energy transition in the maritime sector is entering a new phase,’ says Astrid Kee, Programme Director of the Maritime Master Plan. ‘With this scheme, we are giving consortia the opportunity to actually demonstrate innovative technologies on board. It is precisely by working together on scalable solutions that we strengthen the international competitive position of the Dutch maritime manufacturing industry and take concrete steps towards zero-emission shipping.’
Projects are assessed via a tender system on criteria including innovative strength, reliability of the energy system, scalability, supply chain collaboration, digital collaboration and contribution to human capital. Further information on the scheme, conditions and application documents is available via RVO – Temporary Subsidy Scheme Maritime Master Plan 2026.
About the Maritime Master Plan
The Maritime Master Plan is a national programme in which the government, research institutions and the business community are working together to make the Dutch shipping sector more sustainable. Through innovation, digitalisation and collaboration, the programme aims to contribute to a strong, competitive and climate-neutral maritime industry.
