What’s on offer?

NWO is making up to €50,000 per project available to cover the costs of transitioning to a new non-profit, diamond open-access model. This round offers € 500,000 in total.

Who can apply?

This funding is open to:

  • Editorial boards
  • Academic societies
  • Foundations
  • Associations

Applicants must be affiliated with Dutch universities, universities of applied sciences, or other research organisations.

Importantly, this opportunity isn’t limited to Dutch journals. If you’re an editor of an international journal and affiliated with a Dutch institution, you’re also eligible to apply. This inclusive approach allows a broader range of journals to benefit from this funding initiative.

What is Diamond Open Access?

Diamond open access is a publishing model where neither readers nor authors bear any costs.

This approach aims to create a fairer, more equitable, and diverse ecosystem for open-access publishing.

Why is this important?

Since 2015, NWO has required open-access publication for all research it has funded.

While over 90% of these publications are now open access, the majority follow a pay-to-publish model. This system has faced criticism for being inequitable and potentially leading to questionable publication practices.

What’s the timeline?

Successful applicants will have 24 months to establish a sustainable business model that ensures the journal’s continued existence after the project phase.

How can I learn more?

For more information and to stay updated on the application process, visit the NWO website or contact the Scholarly Communication team at the Maastricht University Library. We’re here to support you in exploring this opportunity to contribute to a more open and accessible scholarly communication landscape.

More information

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