Who is DHI Market Validation 2026 for?

DHI Market Validation is intended for Dutch SMEs that want to validate their product, service or technology in a specific foreign market before making a larger investment. Applications on a first-come-first-served basis, so submitting early pays off.

What does market validation cover?

• Research into the target market (size, competition, regulations)
• Customer interviews and validation conversations with local potential buyers
• Identification of local distribution partners or agents
• Exploration of pricing, sales model and go-to-market
• Testing product-market fit in local context

Subsidy amount

• Maximum amount: €25,000 per project
• Subsidy rate: 50% of eligible costs
• Project duration: maximum 12 months
• Applications per company: one per calendar year

Which countries qualify?

DHI is intended for emerging markets and specific OECD countries. Classic European neighbouring countries are mostly excluded. Think markets like Brazil, Indonesia, Vietnam, Egypt, Mexico, Turkey, India and South Africa.

The 4 DHI variants alongside Market Validation

• Market Validation (max €25,000): explore and validate market
• Feasibility Studies (€25,000 - €100,000): test technical and financial feasibility
• Demonstration Projects (€25,000 - €200,000): execute pilot in target market
• Investment Preparation (€25,000 - €100,000): prepare local investment

How to apply for DHI Market Validation

Apply via Mijn RVO with eHerkenning level 3. The 2026 application period runs from 2 March 2026 to 31 December 2026 or until the budget is exhausted.

How Subsidies.io can help

DHI Market Validation is a quick win for SMEs scaling internationally. With Subsidies.io you can test if your target market qualifies.

Next step

Run the free subsidy scan.