If you work for a DigiShape partner and have an innovative idea for digitization of the water sector, this is the time to take action. In 2026, €40,000 seed money will be available within DigiShape for 4 to 5 small-scale projects in which partners work together on a proof of concept, prototype or practice-oriented experiment.
We look for promising proposals that fit within the DigiShape domains and that can grow into a larger follow-up project, pilot or collaboration.
What is a seedmoney project?
With seedmoney, DigiShape supports a number of small-scale and innovative projects every year. A maximum of €10,000 is available per project, up to 50 percent of the total project budget. The other half may be contributed as co-financing in kind.
A project is carried out by at least two DigiShape partners*, has a clear innovative character and contributes to cooperation and follow-up development. Preferably, young employees play an active role in the project.
*Do you not work for a DigiShape partner, but do you have a good idea that fits within our objectives? Please contact a DigiShape partner to submit a proposal together.
What kind of projects are we looking for?
Typical DigiShape projects focus on the smart application of data, models and digital techniques in the water sector. Think of digital twins for infrastructure, AI applications for maintenance and monitoring, tools that make data more exchangeable, or new ways to involve users in decision-making. The projects are practice-oriented, innovative and focused on cooperation between public and private parties.
“Seedmoney helpt om het projectidee concreet te maken en samen met partners op te pakken”
– Jochem Caspers, interview over Portvision
Important dates
- 15 May: Deadline for submitting a first proposal of a maximum of 2 A4. If you deliver on time, you can pitch during the DigiShape day on 22 May.
- 22 May: Pitch moment during the DigiShape day at the Port of Rotterdam Authority. Here you can refine your idea, find new partners and get feedback.
- 3 July: Deadline for the final proposal.
- Then: The core team makes a pre-selection based on the knockout criteria and test criteria.
- Around September: Selected proposals pitch live during the DigiShape day. The seed money winners are also chosen there.
Participate?
Would you like to submit a proposal? Fill in the seedmoney template (found on the seedmoney page) and send it to david@digishape.nl. If you submit your proposal no later than 15 May, you can pitch your idea on 22 May during the DigiShape day.
We look forward to your ideas and collaborations!
