2026 Subsidy Guide for language training: budgets via A+O Metalektro, OOM, STL and more

Investing in language skills pays off: better communication in the workplace, greater safety and stronger client relationships. What many employers don't know is that, for a large number of industries, there are training and development funds (O&O funds) that heavily subsidise language training.

The main schemes per sector

• A+O Metalektro (large-scale metal industry): subsidies of up to € 2650,- per participant under schemes such as 'Fit tot je Pensioen'. In many cases, this makes the training almost free.

• OOM (SME metalworking): personal development budgets and reimbursements for employees' language training.

• STL (transport & logistics): personal training budgets to improve safety and communication in the workplace.

• RAS (cleaning & window cleaners): full (100%) reimbursement for targeted language programmes.

• Colland Arbeidsmarkt (agriculture & green sector): subsidy for business language courses and Dutch for speakers of other languages.

• Handel Groeit (fruit & vegetables): up to 40% subsidy for Dutch and 30% for foreign languages.

• MDIEU: a broad scheme for sustainable employability with subsidies of up to € 1005,- per participant for Dutch in the workplace.

• Doorzaam (temporary employment sector): incentive budgets for the language skills of flexible workers.

How do you apply for this?

Each scheme has its own conditions, application procedures, and deadlines, and in practice, this is often where things go wrong. That's why we deliver subsidised programmes through our parent organisation, The Square Mile, which has years of experience with these funds and supports your organisation with the application free of charge.

Curious what's possible for your organisation? Get in touch or take a look at the page on group training and subsidies.