The Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) is expanding the Circular Biopolyester Testing (STCB) scheme in 2026. The available funding will increase from €1,5 million to €4 million. Furthermore, for the first time this year, large companies will also be eligible for this support, whereas the scheme was previously limited to small and medium-sized enterprises.
The expansion of funding is linked to the growing demand for bio-based raw materials within Dutch industry. Biopolyesters are produced from renewable biological resources instead of fossil fuels. These materials are used in the chemical and packaging industries to reduce dependence on petroleum. By expanding this scheme, the government is facilitating the transition to a circular economy.
The STCB program focuses on conducting practical tests in industrial environments. Although biopolyesters have already been developed on a laboratory scale, scaling them up to existing production lines often raises technical questions. This support enables entrepreneurs to investigate how bio-aromatics and bioplastics perform within their specific production processes. This research should provide insight into the processability of the materials and the ultimate CO2 footprint of the products.
The updated scheme will be available starting February 26, 2026. Entrepreneurs can apply for a maximum of €25.000 per project to conduct a field test. By opening the scheme to large companies, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO.nl) aims to achieve broader application throughout the entire production chain, from the supply of raw materials to the manufacture of finished products. This approach is aimed at bringing bio-based solutions up to market standards.
The expansion of the STCB scheme is part of the national government's policy to achieve the set climate goals. The results from the subsidized tests provide technical data on the quality and usability of renewable polyesters. This data is important for the market acceptance of bioplastics and the further development of the Dutch biochemical sector within the European context.
Source: RVO.nl – More opportunities for bio-based polyesters in 2026
Photo: jarmoluk, Pixabay
