Investing in your people sometimes feels like a luxury. Daily operations demand all your attention, and a good coaching program simply costs money. But what if the government footed the bill?

Through the SLIM subsidy for coaching – fully: Stimuleringsregeling Leren en Ontwikkelen in Mkb-ondernemingen – the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment reimburses up to 60% of your investment in coaching and personal development. You will receive a maximum of €25,000 per application. The first application period in 2026 opens on April 7 and closes as early as May 4.

This article explains step by step how the scheme works, why coaching via Trackler qualifies as an eligible activity, and how to submit an application that stands a chance of success.

What is the SLIM subsidy?

The SLIM subsidy is a structural government scheme running from 2020 through 2029. The goal is concrete: to give learning and development a permanent place within the Dutch SME sector.

What distinguishes the scheme from other subsidies is the focus on structural embedding. Individual courses and training programs are not reimbursed — the subsidy is specifically intended for programs that build a lasting learning and development culture within your organization. Examples include career coaching for employees, implementing a coaching methodology at the organizational level, or setting up a systematic development conversation process.

In 2026 is €71.9 million available for the SLIM scheme. That sounds like a lot — but the budget becomes significantly oversubscribed every period. Preparation is therefore not a luxury, but a necessity.

Who is eligible for the SLIM subsidy?

The scheme is widely accessible. You can apply if you fall under one of the following three groups:

Individual SMEs: companies with a maximum of 250 employees and an annual turnover of a maximum of €50 million or a balance sheet total of a maximum of €43 million. You must submit an SME declaration with your application. The maximum subsidy amounts to €25,000 per application.

Partnerships: at least two SMEs submitting a joint application. This offers significantly more flexibility: the maximum subsidy amount rises to €500,000. The lead applicant must submit a cooperation agreement demonstrating that they are authorized to act on behalf of all parties.

Large companies in the agriculture, hospitality, and recreation sectors: They may also apply independently, with a maximum of €24,999.

NB: Large companies outside the mentioned sectors have not been able to submit individual applications since 2025. They can only participate through a partnership with SMEs.

Two basic conditions always apply: the eligible costs must be at least €5.000 amounts, and the duration of the project is a maximum 12 months. Your project may only start after you have received the grant decision — so plan this into your timeline.

How much subsidy do you receive exactly?

The subsidy amounts to a fixed percentage of the eligible costs — these are the direct external costs (such as the invoice from Trackler) plus any internal labor costs for employees working on the project. On top of those direct costs, you automatically receive a fixed surcharge of 15% for indirect costs, without you having to specify or justify this.

Calculation example: You invest €15,000 in coaching programs via Trackler. With the automatic 15% surcharge, the eligible costs become €17,250. You receive 60% of this amount: €10,350 subsidy. Your net investment is therefore €15,000 − €10,350 = €4.650.

Upon approval, you will immediately receive a down payment of 50% of the awarded amount — so that you do not need to arrange pre-financing before the start of the process. The remaining 50% follows after determination at the end of the project.

Which activities are reimbursed — and how does coaching fit in?

The SLIM subsidy reimburses four types of activities. For coaching programs via Trackler, activities B and C are particularly relevant.

Activity A — Organizational Review

An external consultant analyzes your organization and draws up a future-oriented training and development plan. This is a logical first step if you do not yet have a clear picture of the development needs within your company. The outcome of activity A often forms the basis for a follow-up trajectory with activity B or C.

Activity B — Career and development advice (directly applicable to Trackler coaching)

Individual employees receive professional career advice or a personal development session from an external coach. The goal: to map out ambitions and competencies, and to chart a concrete development path. This is the activity that aligns most directly with individual coaching via Trackler.

Activity C — Introduction of a learning and development method (directly applicable to Trackler coaching)

You are implementing a methodology that structurally encourages employees to continue developing at work. Think of setting up periodic development reviews, an internal coaching program, or rolling out a digital learning platform. Trackler provides both the infrastructure and the guidance for this.

Important: For individual applications submitted from 2025 onwards, activity C must always be part of your application.

Activity D — Practical training placements

Offering structured work-study placements for employees or job seekers following an MBO education via the third learning pathway. This falls outside Trackler's primary offering but can be combined with activities B and C.

Common misconception: Many entrepreneurs believe that coaching is not eligible for subsidies because “only training courses” qualify. The opposite is true: standalone courses and training programs actually fall outside the SLIM scheme. Coaching that contributes to a structured learning environment — such as Trackler offers — does qualify.

When can you apply in 2026?

The SLIM subsidy operates with fixed application periods. Three periods have been set for 2026:

Applications are submitted via the official portal of Uitvoering Van Beleid: uitvoeringvanbeleidszw.nl. You need eHerkenning or DigiD to log in.

In the event of the budget being overcharged, a determines draw the order of processing. You therefore do not need to log in at the first second of the time slot — but your application must be substantively strong and complete to participate in the lottery.

What do you need for a strong application?

A successful SLIM application consists of three components that you must prepare in advance:

1. SME declaration By signing this, you formally declare that your organization meets the SME definition. Request this document in a timely manner — it is a mandatory attachment to your application.

2. Activity plan This is the heart of your application. You describe the activities you will carry out, who is involved, the goals you are pursuing, and how you will measure progress. The more concrete, the greater the chance of approval. Vague descriptions are the most common reason for rejection.

3. Detailed budget A realistic cost estimate including external costs (such as invoices from Trackler), internal labor costs, and the 15% surcharge for indirect costs. Ensure a small buffer for unforeseen items.

Count on four to six weeks preparation for a well-substantiated application. Therefore, start well before the opening date of the period. Trackler helps you structure this process — see below.

How does Trackler support you with your SLIM application?

Trackler is a Dutch platform that connects HR, L&D, and coaching professionals with organizations of all sizes. Via trackler.nl, you manage all development tracks in one place, match employees with certified coaches, and accurately track progress and results.

Our team helps you translate your development wishes into a SLIM-worthy activity plan and a substantiated budget. Throughout the process, Trackler provides the invoices and progress reports that you will need after completion for subsidy accountability to Uitvoering Van Beleid.

Specifically, Trackler supports you with:

• Intake and advice — which tracks fit within the SLIM frameworks and your organizational goals?
• Application support — draw up activity plan and budget
• Execution — certified coaches, structured programs, measurable goals
• Accountability — invoices and project documentation for your determination application

Contact us via trackler.nl for a no-obligation introductory meeting. In 30 minutes, we will determine together whether the SLIM subsidy is feasible for your situation and what a realistic subsidy amount is.

Three practical scenarios

Below you can see how three different SMEs are using the SLIM subsidy in combination with Trackler.

IT service provider, 22 employees The director wants five team leaders to be coached on personal leadership and feedback skills. Trackler offers each team member a program of eight sessions. Total investment including 15% surcharge: €13,800. SLIM subsidy (60%): €8.280. Personal contribution: €5,520.

Accounting firm, 65 employees HR wants to roll out a platform-wide learning and development method for twenty employees, including individual career coaching and a joint development dashboard via Trackler. Total investment including surcharge: €34,500. Maximum SLIM subsidy: €20.700. Personal contribution: €13,800.

Production company, 110 employees Ten operators receive a career scan and personal guidance towards internal advancement or retraining. Total investment including surcharge: €20,700. SLIM subsidy (60%): €12.420. Personal contribution: €8,280.

Frequently asked questions about SLIM subsidy and coaching

Is coaching eligible for subsidies under the SLIM scheme? Yes — provided the coaching contributes to a structural learning environment within your organization. Career advice for employees (activity B) and the implementation of a coaching methodology (activity C) are both recognized SLIM activities. Standalone courses or one-off training sessions are not.

Is my company eligible? If you are an SME with a maximum of 250 employees, invest at least €5,000 in a recognized activity, and can provide a concrete activity plan, you meet the basic requirements. Are you unsure? Contact Trackler for a free check.

What are the deadlines in 2026? The first period runs from 7 April to 4 May 2026. The second period runs from 10 August to 7 September 2026. Partnerships can apply from 8 June to 6 July 2026.

How much is the subsidy exactly? 60% of the eligible costs, including an automatic 15% surcharge for indirect costs. The maximum for individual applications is €25,000. Upon approval, you will immediately receive 50% as an advance payment.

Can I apply multiple times? Yes. You may submit one application per application period. The scheme runs through 2029, with two periods each year for individual SME applications.

May my project already have started before the decision? No. Activities may only start after you have received the grant decision. Explicitly plan your timeline for this — start your application preparation at least four weeks before the period opens.

What if the budget runs out? In the event of oversubscription, the order of processing is determined by lottery. All timely and complete applications have an equal chance — regardless of the exact time of submission within the timeframe. A substantively strong application is therefore always worthwhile.

Can I combine the subsidy with other schemes? Consult your grant advisor or check RVO.nl for this. Cumulation with other (EU) subsidies is subject to rules and varies by situation.

Current: The information in this article is based on the published SLIM scheme 2025–2029 and the application dates as known as of April 2026. Always check the most up-to-date amounts, percentages, and deadlines via uitvoeringvanbeleidszw.nl or ondernemersplein.overheid.nl.

Start before May 4 — schedule your free consultation

The first application period of 2026 closes on May 4th. A good application takes four to six weeks of preparation. That means: now is the right time to start.

Trackler helps you determine whether your organization is eligible, which tracks qualify for funding, and how to formulate the strongest application.

SLIM subsidy for coaching: this is how the government reimburses 60% of your coaching trajectory

Just imagine that your organization can improve the team's skills, while the majority of the bill is paid by someone else. That sounds too good to be true, doesn't it? Yet this is exactly the opportunity that lies before you now.

namely, through a special government scheme, you receive 60% back of the investment in professional guidance. There is a maximum of €25,000 per application. This makes it much more feasible for your company to invest in growth.

This financial support has been specifically created for small and medium-sized enterprises. The goal is clear: to remove obstacles and boost your staff's learning curve. This way, you keep the knowledge within your company up-to-date and competitive.

Please note: the application period for this unique support closes on May 4, 2026. Therefore, do not wait too long to explore this possibility for your team.

Key points

• The government reimburses 60% for the costs of a professional development trajectory.
• There is a maximum reimbursement of €25,000 per application.
• The available budget for this period amounts to €73.8 million.
• The scheme is aimed at stimulating learning within SMEs.
• It helps you keep your employees' skills up to date.
• The deadline for applications is May 4, 2026.

Overview of the SLIM subsidy

The scheme is specifically designed to remove barriers and promote learning within your company. It makes professional development feasible, even when time or resources are scarce.

Goal and benefits for your organization

The primary goal is clear: stimulating learning and development within small and medium-sized enterprises. Your organization gains directly from this.

Your team's skills are strengthened. This leads to higher productivity. The scheme ensures that a lack of knowledge or time is no longer an obstacle to growth.

Key data and conditions at a glance

Since 2020, there has already been €48 million made available for this support. As an individual entrepreneur, you can recover 60% of the costs.

The maximum amounts to €25.000 per project. Do you collaborate with other parties? Then the fee increases to as much as €500.000.

You allocate the resources to keeping expertise up to date. Establishing an internal company school is also an option. This way, you keep the knowledge future-proof.

Everything about SLIM subsidy coaching

The strength of this scheme lies not in paying for courses, but in building a solid foundation for development. It is specifically intended for designing educational programs and conducting preparatory discussions with your team.

You can the smart subsidy applications for four strategic activities. Think of a thorough review of your organization or professional career advice for employees. These steps set the tone for effective learning to develop.

You can find the complete package of accredited training courses on Rijksoverheid.nl and Leeroverzicht. Please note: your chosen training must start no later than 13 weeks after submission of the application. This ensures the process remains efficient.

By investing in this foundation, you improve the knowledge and skills of your staff sustainably. The scheme also supports the creation of a learning environment, for example via e-learning or a knowledge portal.

What is the SLIM coaching subsidy?

Empowering your employees begins with insight into their qualities and ambitions. The SLIM scheme is a powerful instrument for this. The abbreviation stands for Stimuleringsregeling Leren en ontwikkeling In Mkb-ondernemingen (Stimulation Scheme for Learning and Development in SMEs).

This financial support is specifically designed for small and medium-sized enterprises. The goal is to learning and development to give it a central place within your organization.

Subsidy for learning and development in SMEs

This scheme encourages active learning and development in SMEs. It is more than just a contribution towards costs.

You invest in the sustainable growth of your staff. The focus is on building a strong learning structure. This makes your company future-proof.

Application for career and development advice

Entrepreneurs put these smart subsidy Often open to professional advice. You clearly map out your team's competencies.

The program explores future career opportunities. These align with the personal ambitions of each employee.

The result is a concrete training and development plan. This allows you to make optimal use of the talent within your SME.

The Minister of Social Affairs and Employment makes this possible. The scheme strengthens the labor market and supports the growth of entrepreneurs.

Qualifications and requirements for applicants

To receive the financial support, your must project and the organization meet specific requirements. Good preparation starts here.

Not everyone automatically enters remark. The regulation has set clear limits.

Who is eligible?

The support is primarily intended for SMEs. Partnerships between multiple companies can also submit an application.

Specific large companies in sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and recreation also sometimes stand a chance. Specific rules apply to each type.

An official SME declaration is often a basic document. Partnerships must consist of at least two SMEs exist.

Minimum investment and duration

Your development plan must have a minimum value of €5.000 have. This is the threshold to for the smart subsidy to be eligible.

The entire route may be a maximum of 12 months last. These time provides room for a thorough approach.

Plan your project carefully within these frameworks. This way, you meet all the conditions for this valuable subsidy.

Important dates for 2026

The calendar for 2026 offers two specific moments to officially submit your development plans. It is essential to mark these dates in your calendar.

The government applies strict application periods. Your request must be submitted within one of these windows.

Period: April 7 – May 4

The first period for the smart subsidy in 2026 runs from April 7 to May 4. This is your initial opportunity to submit a request that year.

Start gathering the necessary documents on time. This will prevent unnecessary stress just before the closing date.

Period: August 10 – September 7

Did you miss the first deadline? No problem. A second opportunity will follow from August 10 to September 7.

The Minister of Social Affairs and Employment officially establishes these dates. Publication takes place in the Government Gazette.

All applications must be submitted via the Policy Implementation portal. The government strictly adheres to these agreed periods.

Therefore, plan well ahead. Good preparation is the foundation for a successful subsidyapplication.

Activities within the subsidy

Four core activities are central to this support for SMEs. You choose the option that best suits your goal to learning and development to give a permanent place.

Every activity is a building block for a stronger team. The smart subsidy makes these practical steps possible.

Activity B: Career and development advice

This option focuses on strengthening the future prospects of your people. You invest in professional advice for every employee.

This is how you gain a clear picture of ambitions and competencies. The result is a personal development plan that makes optimal use of talent.

Activity C: Introduction of learning and development method

This is about the develop enter of a structural approach. Consider setting up an internal company school.

A system for regular development reviews is also a powerful method. You create a learning environment that stimulates growth.

In addition to these two options, you can also opt for a thorough assessment of your organization. A fourth possibility is offering practical training placements.

All these activities Increase the knowledge and skills of your staff in a sustainable way. This is how you build a future-proof company.

Financial details and grant conditions

The exact compensation and the method of payment are essential elements to understand. The slim scheme makes this concrete.

This way, you know exactly where you stand. This provides peace of mind during the execution of your plans.

Subsidy percentage and maximum reimbursements

You will receive a reimbursement of 60% for your recognized expenses. The maximum amounts to €25,000 per submitted request.

For the full amount, your project must cost €41,667. This ratio helps with your financial planning.

Advance payment and verification procedure

Upon approval, you will immediately receive an advance of 50%. This amount finances the start of your project.

The verification and processing are handled via uitvoeringvanbeleidszw.nl. Therefore, keep your records up to date.

This system ensures rapid liquidity. You can get started with your development process immediately.

Coaching via Trackler: Your partner in development

Finding a reliable partner can make the difference in achieving your growth goals. For a streamlined approach, you can turn to a specialized Dutch platform.

Trackler supports your organization in achieving ambitious development goals. As a leading platform, it facilitates the connection between experts and your team.

Via trackler.nl You easily manage all processes. You keep a close eye on employee progress. This ensures everyone remains focused on the end result.

We help your company also when making optimal use of the smart subsidy. Our expertise ensures an approach that perfectly aligns with your needs. You handle your project professionally and in a structured manner.

Discover how our knowledge can strengthen your people. Contact our team for a personal introduction.

Project requirements and implementation

Before you start, it is crucial to know the financial and temporal frameworks. These conditions provide a solid foundation for your development plans.

They help you set realistic goals. This way, you avoid surprises during execution.

Minimum investment of €5,000

Your project must have a minimum value of €5,000. This amount underscores the seriousness of your development ambitions.

It is the threshold to for the smart subsidy to be eligible. This costs are necessary for an impactful process.

Your plans must be aimed at stimulating learning and development within your company. That is a core condition of the ministry.

Duration and schedule of the project

The maximum time The duration for your entire process has been set at 12 months. This period provides sufficient time for careful execution.

Thorough planning is therefore essential. It guarantees progress and the timely completion of your activities.

The implementation must fully comply with the conditions of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment. This guarantees that your company the subsidy correctly utilized.

The role of external advisors

For a successful application, often more is needed than just filling out forms. External advisors bring a fresh perspective and specialized knowledge with.

They assist in screening your organization. They also draw up a professional training plan. This step is officially recognized under the scheme.

Expertise of coaching platforms

Specialized platforms offer the necessary experience to strengthen your request. Their expertise significantly increases the quality of your application.

This increases the chance of a positive decision. You benefit from their proven methods and network.

Success factors for a successful application

A clear activity plan and a sound budget are crucial. These factors demonstrate that your project is well thought out.

They form the basis for a strong submission. The table below summarizes the key points.

Engaging an external consultant is a recognized activity. They assist in translating your business goals into concrete learning objectives.

This is how you make optimal use of the financial support for the growth of your team.

Tips for a successful grant application

Thorough preparation is the key to a smooth and successful submission of your request. Focus on two pillars: complete documentation and a well-thought-out plan. This significantly increases your chances of a positive decision.

Documentation and required evidence

Your dossier must be convincing. An official SME declaration is a mandatory document. Your activity plan describes in detail how the support contributes to the development of your people.

Collecting all supporting documents in a timely manner prevents delays. The table below provides a clear overview.

Strategic planning of your development project

Think ahead when setting up your project. A realistic budget is necessary for the assessment committee.

Strategic planning helps you make optimal use of the support. In this way, it contributes to the growth of your company in the long term.

Apply for a subsidy via uitvoeringvanbeleidszw.nl

The government has set up a special portal where you can easily submit your request. This digital counter, uitvoeringvanbeleidszw.nl, guides you through the entire process. It offers a clear route from start to finish.

Steps in the application process

You go through a number of clear steps. First, you draw up a detailed activity plan. This plan shows how the support contributes to the growth of your team.

Next, you prepare a balanced budget. You also need a valid SME declaration. You submit these documents via the portal.

You can the smart subsidy apply via this official channel. All steps are clearly explained there.

Verification and administrative requirements

After submission, the implementing organization checks your file. They verify whether all requirements have been met. This ensures correct processing.

The portal offers handy templates and all the necessary information. The verification via uitvoeringvanbeleidszw.nl is a crucial step.

Do you have any questions? Then please contact us. Contact Contact the Uitvoering van Beleid helpdesk. They will be happy to assist you.

Practical examples and case studies

Concrete examples often best demonstrate how a scheme works in practice. They provide inspiration and proof that investing in people pays off.

The Katapult network shares more than 450 inspiring real-life stories from this. These are collaborations of companies who make their experiences public.

Success stories within SMEs

A recurring success story is establishing one's own company school. Various SME-companies have taken this step with financial support.

In this way, they created a place where learning and development is central. It keeps the knowledge within the company Current and future-proof.

Examples of learning and development tracks

Another powerful example is the introduction of periodic development reviews. This gives structure to the growth of your staff.

Also in the hospitality and recreation sector, companies the subsidy in. They train their staff to for new roles within the company.

For more case studies, please visit the website 'Learning and development in the SME‘There you will find a wealth of concrete ideas.

Conclusion

Now that you know all the details, the moment has arrived to turn your development plans into action. This subsidy offers a unique opportunity to enhance the knowledge and skills of your staff. It helps your company become future-proof.

By investing in a learning-rich work environment now, you strengthen your organization for the long term. Your employees are given the space to grow. This has an immediate positive effect on performance.

Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the final realization of your project. Ensure you are on time for the application periods in 2026.

This is how you make optimal use of this valuable support for your SME. Contact us today for personal advice.