Millions in subsidies to stimulate organic sales

In May 2022, a first step in this direction was taken with an action plan and the establishment of the growth ambition. Following the Danish government's lead, the Ministry of Agriculture also took the initiative to achieve the target of increasing organic production from 4% in 2022 to 15% in 2030. With this plan, the Netherlands aims to demonstrate that action is being taken to come as close as possible to the European Commission's target of achieving an organic share of 25% by 2030. To achieve the national target of 15% things need to be accelerated considerably. 

Vabiola stands for Increasing Sales of Organic Agricultural Products. This program provides subsidies for innovative projects to increase sales of organic products. 

More places to buy organic products
More organic farming is good for the economy and improves water and soil quality, nature, the climate, and animal welfare, according to the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl). "That's why it's important that consumers buy more organic products. For example, there need to be more places where organic products are available. Think of supermarkets, restaurants, and catering companies. But also butchers, greengrocers, bakers, garden centers, and online meal kits."

The new scheme will begin on February 2, 2026, and run until 2030. A group of companies that launch a pilot project or establish a local chain to increase organic sales are eligible for this subsidy.

A minimum of €100.000 is available for each project, with a maximum of €500.000. The subsidy covers 80% of the costs for which support can be requested. Each partner receives a minimum of €25.000 in subsidy. A partnership can, for example, initiate a project to conduct a joint market study, or a project to make agreements about sales and purchasing. Subsidy applications can be submitted starting February 2, 2026.