PVP Toolbox Program 2027 open for applications
Publicationdate: 23 september 2026
Is your organization looking to develop or strengthen PVP systems through capacity building, training or knowledge sharing? The Naktuinbouw PVP Toolbox Program 2027 is now open for applications. Let’s work together to support plant breeders and improve global agricultural systems.
Over the last ten years, the PVP Toolbox Development Program has proven to be a valuable instrument for supporting the development of Plant Breeders’ Rights systems worldwide. This success would not have been possible without the close collaboration of the Agricultural Counsellor network, whose insights and support have been essential in identifying opportunities and local needs. Together, we have strengthened Plant Breeders’ Rights systems, facilitated market access for Dutch plant propagating material, and promoted innovation, food security and sustainable agriculture.
Building on these achievements, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN) has agreed to continue supporting the program into a new phase.
Deadline for submissions is October 19, 2026
The Agricultural Counsellor network remains our essential source of information on local needs and possibilities. We therefore invite you to submit proposals for activities in 2027. Proposals need not be fully developed, but should identify a clear need, explain the potential value of support through this program, and preferably be recognized by the local government.
Please submit proposals by October 19, 2026, as they will be used to select activities for 2027. Based on the proposals received, Naktuinbouw will further refine them and present them to the Advisory and Steering Committees. Once approved, project execution will commence in January 2027.
Important Note: The next phase of the PVP Toolbox will begin in 2027. We expect to be able to support a larger number of proposals and activities than in previous years.
To extend the program’s reach and enable additional activities, we strongly encourage the relevant authorities in the implementing country to demonstrate their commitment by contributing financially or in kind to the proposed activities. Such contributions would allow us to achieve more and increase the program’s impact in the country.
PVP Toolbox Development Program
The PVP Toolbox Development Program is a practical instrument through which the Netherlands responds to requests for knowledge sharing and capacity building on Plant Breeders’ Rights systems worldwide. Through this program, embassies can support initiatives that strengthen local PVP systems, contribute to a better investment climate for plant breeding, and ultimately improve access to innovative plant varieties.
The broader goal is to promote the development and sharing of improved plant varieties that contribute to global food security and sustainable agriculture. The Netherlands, renowned for its expertise in plant breeding and Plant Breeders’ Rights, actively shares this knowledge with other countries. An example of our commitment is the annual Plant Variety Protection Course offered by Naktuinbouw.
We firmly believe that everyone benefits from the availability of better-performing plant varieties, including both small-scale farmers and large commercial farmers. These varieties help feed the world’s growing population responsibly and sustainably and enhance our quality of life. Furthermore, new plant varieties can reduce reliance on pesticides.
The success of the breeding sector relies on a robust Plant Breeders’ Rights system aligned with the UPOV model. Such a system ensures fair compensation for breeding efforts and encourages continuous innovation. Additionally, internationally harmonized systems for the registration and protection of plant varieties are essential for global food security and for organizations involved in plant breeding. This forms the core of our efforts when sharing Dutch knowledge on Plant Breeders’ Rights systems with other countries.
Program Overview
In practice, the program enables governments to work with Dutch experts to develop and implement Plant Breeders’ Rights systems or enhance existing procedures. Its activities provide specific and continuous support based on requests from partner countries.
Naktuinbouw coordinates and executes a significant portion of the program, while remaining accountable to the Ministry. We work closely with the Board for Plant Varieties, LVVN, and other experts and sector organizations. International collaboration may also involve CPVO, UPOV, or other European variety testing offices.
The program offers a comprehensive toolbox of activities, which can be organized in person or virtually, depending on the circumstances:
- Awareness missions in the Netherlands for decision-makers
- Participation of local experts in the PVP course organized by Naktuinbouw (online)
- Training for crop experts, for example in potatoes, tomatoes, phalaenopsis and ryegrass
- Assistance in establishing an Office for Plant Breeders’ Rights
- Guidance on organizational and administrative matters
- Tailored training in the host country
- Local awareness programs for governments, farmers and traders
- Assistance in developing national guidelines
- Thematic workshops on topics such as the UPOV Convention, DUS principles, variety collections and infringements