The Caribbean Netherlands is going to launch a pilot subsidy scheme for the
preservation of monumental residences. In September 2026, owners can apply
for a subsidy for the restoration of their monument. The scheme has a non-
recurring budget of US$ 1.1 million. The National Restoration Fund is making
these funds available. With this pilot, practical experience is gained for future
monument management in the region. The scheme was published in the
Government Gazette today.
Minister Rianne Letschert (OCW): “It is hard for owners of monumental residences in
the Caribbean Netherlands to find financing, as a result of which some buildings
threaten to become neglected. For the first time, subsidy is now going directly to
owners on Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba. That is important, because monuments
connect people to their history and culture. They give a place character and remind
residents of who they are and where they come from”.
In the European Netherlands there have been subsidy schemes for monument
owners for quite some time, but not yet in the Caribbean Netherlands. And that whilst
the need for it is considerable on the islands. Owners of monuments in the Caribbean
Netherlands are dealing with high maintenance costs due to the island location,
scarcity of specialist materials, and high transport costs.
Large maintenance and restoration
The subsidy scheme is implemented by the Cultural Heritage Agency of the
Netherlands (RCE). The scheme focuses on private owners of residential
monuments that are in need of (large) maintenance or restoration on Bonaire, St.
Eustatius, and Saba. The preservation costs eligible for subsidy must exceed US$
25,000 and are subsidised up to US$100,000.
Monuments (historical buildings older than 50 years) without protected status are
also eligible for subsidy. It regards buildings that are of general importance due to
their beauty, artistic value, or historical meaning. The scheme is opened from 1 up to
and including 30 September 2026. It is only possible to apply for subsidy during this
period.
