All funding programs

Sovereign Tech Fund

Work must be estimated above €50,000 (current minimum); no max stated. Provided by Sovereign Tech Agency (federally funded).

Germany (nationwide)GrantEquity-free

Key facts

Amount
Work must be estimated above €50,000 (current minimum); no max stated
Duration
Not fixed
Type
Grant
Who receives it
Founder or team
Equity
Equity-free
Repayable
No
Stages
Revenue
Solo founders
Yes
Full-time required
No
Company required
No
University link required
No
Application languages
DE, EN
Location
None stated (invests globally)

Who can apply

  • Existing FOSS infrastructure/foundational technology with users
  • FOSS licence
  • Not already publicly funded for the same work

What usually blocks applicants

  • Needs an already-relevant critical OSS component, not a new product
  • ~6 months from application to contract
  • Prototypes and user-facing apps are currently not funded

Why founders miss it

If you maintain a widely used OSS library, this pays real money for maintenance work that no VC funds.

Deadline and timing

Applications via apply.sovereign.tech; no deadline stated

Frequently asked

How much does Sovereign Tech Fund pay?

Work must be estimated above €50,000 (current minimum); no max stated

Who can apply for Sovereign Tech Fund?

Existing FOSS infrastructure/foundational technology with users FOSS licence Not already publicly funded for the same work

When is the Sovereign Tech Fund deadline?

Applications via apply.sovereign.tech; no deadline stated

Where do I apply for Sovereign Tech Fund?

On the official page: https://www.sovereign.tech/programs/fund. Applications are accepted in DE, EN.

Do I have to pay back Sovereign Tech Fund or give up equity?

No, it does not have to be paid back. It takes no equity.

Can solo founders apply for Sovereign Tech Fund?

Yes, solo founders can apply.

Sources and verification

Checked on 8 October 2026. Most facts read from the official source; some details need confirmation. This page is orientation, not an eligibility decision.

More funding in Germany (nationwide)

All startup funding in Germany (nationwide)