Revision of the Zoetermeer Event Grant Program
The subsidy program for events in Zoetermeer is being revised. Starting in 2027, maximum subsidy amounts will be introduced. Until now, there has been no maximum amount per application. This change will free up approximately €40,000 within the existing budget for new and smaller initiatives.
The revision stems from a motion adopted by the city council. The council has asked the executive board to work with the events sector to determine appropriate maximum subsidy amounts. The goal is to free up additional funds within the current subsidy budget for smaller and new initiatives. In developing the motion, the difference between free and paid events was taken into account. It was also agreed that citywide events would retain a special status.
Maximum grant
Based on these principles, the municipal executive is proposing new rules. For events where visitors pay an admission fee for the main activities, a maximum of 30 percent of the eligible costs may now be reimbursed. Eligible costs are the costs that the municipality considers for subsidy: these are necessary costs directly related to the organization and execution of the event, such as a stage, technical equipment, safety, and the program, based on the budget. In such cases, the maximum subsidy amount is €75,000. For events that are free to the public, the municipal executive may provide a higher contribution. In these cases, up to 50 percent of the eligible costs may be subsidized, with a maximum of €125,000.
More generous guidelines continue to apply to events surrounding King’s Day, Liberation Day, and Sinterklaas. For these national holidays, a grant of up to 80 percent of eligible costs may be awarded.
More room for new initiatives
According to Alderman Jan Iedema (Events), the change will ensure a more equitable distribution of funds. "With this change, we are acting on the council's request. We are creating additional opportunities for small-scale and new events, while existing events can also take place under the revised regulations," said Iedema.
Different allocation of subsidies
The revision of the subsidy scheme will not result in an increase in the total events budget, but the available funds will be allocated differently. Due to annual indexation, the total subsidy budget for events for 2027 is expected to be determined and published in May 2026. This amount is expected to be approximately €760,000.
Application period for 2027
The City Marketing Events Grant Program for the 2027 grant year will be open for applications from June 1 through August 31, 2026. Organizers may submit applications during this period.
