Limburg wins over €350 million European grant: investing in jobs, innovation and livability

Limburg has already secured over €350 million in European subsidies since the start of the 2021-2027 EU program period. This is evident from the annual EU subsidy monitor discussed and adopted in the Provincial Executive.(refers to another website)(opens external website) Never before has it been made visible in such detail what tangible returns European funds bring to the province and its inhabitants. Behind the figures are hundreds of tangible, socially relevant projects that directly contribute to employment, innovation and sustainable development.

Deputy Commissioner Elianne Demollin-Schneiders (European Funds): "The EU grants monitor shows how we put the motto from the coalition agreement 'Every Limburger counts' into practice. Limburg's strength lies in working together and thinking ahead. Thanks to the shared efforts of entrepreneurs, educational institutions, social organizations and governments, we are taking advantage of European opportunities to make Limburg stronger and smarter. Each EU project translates subsidies into something that affects every Limburger: work, healthcare, living environment, innovation and future prospects. This is how we ensure that no one is left behind."

Concrete and recognizable results

Already more than 500 organizations have received support from EU programs since 2021. The Limburger himself also benefits, with an average of €314 European subsidy per inhabitant landing in Limburg, making us the sixth province in the Netherlands in terms of revenue.

Some examples of projects include:

CrossCircular

This is a collaborative structure for interdisciplinary and cross-border education on circularity, as a foundation for a trinational curriculum. There is a strong focus here on cooperation with companies from the Meuse Rhine region so that academic knowledge is well aligned with the needs of business. Cross-border cooperation is crucial to align education systems, overcome legal and administrative barriers, and promote cooperation between universities and business in the Meuse Rhine region. This integrated cooperation serves as a blueprint for future educational models.

EDENmedical

This is a project that improves cooperation between hospitals in the border region. This is done through a smart and innovative medical transport network. The project uses drones (also called Urban Air Mobility) to quickly transport medical goods such as medicines, blood and samples. In addition, the project also provides a platform where hospitals, doctors and drone operators can exchange information in real-time.

High Fidelity Simulator

With European support, medical simulation and training equipment will be developed, enabling healthcare professionals to learn and work more safely and efficiently. This directly provides better care and educational opportunities for the region.

Smart Services Innovationslab

A project that explores how digitization and smart technology contribute to a stronger economy and future-proof work for Limburgers in a variety of sectors.

Wide economic and social impact

The European subsidies are spread across Limburg and stimulate work, innovation and livability, even outside the big cities. "We ensure that EU funds contribute to goals that every Limburger can identify with and participate in," Demollin-Schneiders said.

With the active fundraising approach initiated by Province of Limburg in 2024, the pace of bringing in and utilizing EU funding has further increased, last year alone by over €72 million additional. In anticipation of the new European programming period from 2028, the province is already stimulating preparatory projects and collaborations so that Limburg maintains its strong, progressive position as a European region.