Open Science NL awards grant to strengthen the Netherlands University Presses network

On July 9, 2025, Open Science NL announced a €300,000 grant to the network of institutional open access publishers in the Netherlands, known as the Netherlands University Presses (NUPs). The NUPs consortium currently includes Leiden University Press, Maastricht University Press, Open Press Tilburg University, Radboud University Press, TU Delft Open Publishing and University of Groningen Press. This funding aims to enhance collaboration, coordination, and knowledge-sharing among university-led publishing initiatives across the country.

Over the past few years, the number of open access publishing initiatives at Dutch universities has been on the rise. These efforts, often referred to as library-led publishing or new university presses, prioritize open access models such as diamond open access, where neither authors nor readers pay fees. Unlike traditional profit-driven publishers, these initiatives are deeply integrated within the academic communities at their respective institutions.

The grant will help build a stronger, more sustainable ecosystem for diamond open access publishing in the Netherlands. NUPs plan to establish working groups, provide training, and create a central hub for learning. They also aim to develop shared editorial services, improve metadata handling, and increase the visibility of publications through a unified communication strategy.

A major focus of this initiative is the long-term sustainability of the network. The goal is to ensure that the NUPs can continue to operate effectively and without relying on future funding from Open Science NL. By focusing on governance, cost-sharing, and integration with open infrastructures, the network is positioning itself for future growth and stability.

Read the full blog here.