MIT Feasibility

The feasibility project is one of the instruments of the SME innovation stimulation Region and Top Sectors (MIT). In addition to the MIT feasibility subsidy, you can also apply for a subsidy for MIT collaboration projects. An innovation project can be excellent, yet without prior testing it can still fail. This is why you should apply for a subsidy to evaluate the technical and economic risks.

We are happy to explain whether it is possible for you to apply for this subsidy and what conditions must be met.

MIT stands for Innovation Promotion Top Sectors. An MIT feasibility project consists of a feasibility study, or a combination of a feasibility study, industrial research, and/or experimental development. These activities are essential for technological innovation and are often supported by governments, fiscal incentives, or other funding mechanisms. The costs of the MIT feasibility project must consist of at least 60% costs for the feasibility study.

The subsidy can amount to up to €20,000. The allocation of the subsidy is based on the ‘first come, first served’ principle. This means that applications are assessed in the order they are received. Therefore, it is important to apply for this subsidy in a timely manner. Often, we see that the budget is exceeded on the first day of submission. All applications received on that day are compared with each other.

Did you know that there is also an MIT R&D collaboration program ? Especially for SMEs that enter into a collaborative partnership and focus on the development or innovation of products, production processes, and/or services. Of course, we can also assist you with this.

You can apply for MIT subsidy if you are an SME involved in an innovation project within one of the top sectors: Agri & Food, Creative Industries, Energy, Life Sciences & Health (LSH), Logistics, High Tech Systems & Materials (HTSM), Horticulture & Starting Materials, and Water. In 2026, the project must also align with one of the themes of the mission-driven top sector policy: Energy transition & sustainability, Agriculture, water & food, Health & care, Security, Key technologies, and Societal earning capacity.

As mentioned, an MIT feasibility project consists of a feasibility study, or a combination of a feasibility study, industrial research, and/or experimental development.

What is meant by feasibility study? In a feasibility project, at least 60% of the activities will be carried out under the heading of a feasibility study. You can then think of:

• Literature review
• Patent investigation
• Inventory of available technologies and potential partners
• Market exploration
• Competition analysis

What is meant by industrial research? This is about acquiring new knowledge and skills through research, with which products, processes or services can be improved or developed.

What is meant by experimental development? Experimental development is the subsequent phase after industrial research. It involves systematic work that utilizes existing knowledge obtained from research and/or practical experience, aimed at producing new materials, products, or devices, establishing new processes, systems, and services, or significantly improving existing ones.

• The project must align with the missions, KICs, and key technologies of the Mission-driven Top Sectors and Innovation Policy.
• The duration of the feasibility project is a maximum of 1 year
• You will start implementing the project within 4 months of submitting the grant application
• The hours and costs of the applicant are eligible (including hiring an external consultant)
• The accountability for the performance delivered is available

Applying for a subsidy for MIT feasibility projects is possible from April 8, 2025. The first come, first serve principle applies to this arrangement. This means that applications are assessed on an incoming basis until the budget is exhausted.

Thanks to our 25 years of experience, we can optimize your grant process and take it almost completely off your hands. What to think about in terms of work?

• Assessing whether your project qualifies for an MIT subsidy.
• If this is the case, you will receive support with writing and submitting.
• Submit the grant application to the grant provider on time, and in accordance with the latest grant legislation and conditions.
• Answer questions from the grant provider about the application.
• If required: setting up project administration and providing support in maintaining subsidy administration.
• Mapping additional subsidy opportunities and/or outlining the continuation of the project.