Subsidy Programme for Responsible Business (SPVO) soon open for applications
From 10 February to 14 April 2025, subsidy applications can again be submitted for the Subsidy Programme for Responsible Business (SPVO). This RVO fund promotes social sustainability in production chains of Dutch companies.
Social themes
Approaching European IMVO-legislation demands a more active role of Dutch entrepreneurs abroad when it comes to responsible business. SPVO supports companies that want to make their production chains socially sustainable. The subsidy programme focuses specifically on improving living income/wages of employees and (small) producers, combating child labour and improving working conditions. Here, the OECD guidelines are the assessment framework.
Focus on SMEs
New in this opening is the condition that enterprises (with the exception of local enterprises in the producing country) have not previously received an SPVO or SSF grant. Furthermore, the division of the total grant ceiling of EUR 5.5 million into a grant ceiling for applications for SMEs (EUR 4 million) and a grant ceiling for other applications (EUR 1.5 million) is maintained. By doing so, SPVO puts a renewed emphasis on supporting SMEs because this group of companies has fewer resources and personnel to provide for them themselves.
Overview of projects
Since the inception of SPVO in 2023, RVO now has 27 projects in its portfolio. Most of the projects take place in the producing countries India, Uganda and Ghana with the textile and agribusiness sectors predominating. Within the 27 projects, most submitters choose the social themes; living income/wage or improving working conditions. The theme of child labour, although less frequent, is often included as a sub-theme within the issue of livable income/wage.
Important deadlines SPVO
- Until 7 March 2025 > submit quick scan (mandatory)
- 10 Feb - 14 April 2025 > submit grant application (on a first come first served basis)
Read more about the conditions for submitting to SPVO on the RVO-website: Subsidy Programme for Responsible Business. Here you will also find the quick scan form and application forms.