Pilot subsidy scheme for monumental residences in the Caribbean Netherlands

The Caribbean Netherlands will get a pilot subsidy scheme for the preservation of monumental residential houses. By September 2026, owners can apply for subsidies to restore their monument. The scheme has a one-time budget of $1.1 million. The National Restoration Fund is providing this money. This pilot will provide practical experience for future monument policies in the region. The scheme was published today in the Government Gazette.
 
Minister Rianne Letschert (OCW): ,,Owners of monumental residential properties in the Caribbean Netherlands are finding it difficult to find financing, threatening to make some properties derelict. For the first time, subsidies will now go directly to owners in Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba. This is important because monuments connect people with their history and culture. They give a place character and remind residents of who they are and where they come from.’’

There have been subsidy schemes for monument owners in the European Netherlands for some time, but not yet in the Caribbean Netherlands. Even though there is a great need for them on the islands. Owners of monuments in the Caribbean Netherlands face high maintenance costs due to the island location, scarcity of specialist materials and high transport costs.

Major maintenance and restoration
The subsidy scheme is implemented by the Rijksdienst voor het Cultureel Erfgoed (RCE). The scheme targets private owners of residential monuments in need of (major) maintenance or restoration on Bonaire, St Eustatius and Saba. Conservation costs for subsidy must exceed $25,000 and are subsidised up to $100,000.

Monuments (historic buildings older than 50 years) without protected status are also eligible. These are buildings of general interest because of their beauty, art value or historical significance. The scheme will be open from 1 to 30 September 2026. Grant applications can only be made within this period.