# stipendium.berlin — founder funding routes (full text)

> 82 equity-free and early-stage funding routes for founders in Berlin, Leipzig/Saxony, Amsterdam/Netherlands, Germany and the EU. Last verified 2026-10-09.

Orientation, not an eligibility decision. Facts were checked against the listed sources on verifiedOn; entries with confidence 'low' rely partly on secondary sources. Always confirm current conditions on officialUrl. Independent project, not affiliated with any funding provider.

Structured JSON: https://stipendium.berlin/funding-routes.json · MCP server: https://stipendium.berlin/mcp · Index: https://stipendium.berlin/funding
Please cite the program page on stipendium.berlin and the official URL.

## Berlin Startup Stipendium (Berliner Startup Stipendium)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/berliner-startup-stipendium
- Official: https://www.berlin.de/sen/web/presse/pressemitteilungen/2026/pressemitteilung.1653813.php
- Region: Berlin · Type: Stipend · Provider: State of Berlin (SenWiEnBe) with ESF+; delivered via 10 partner incubators
- Amount: Up to EUR 2,500/month per person for 6 to 12 months (length set by incubator); incubators also provide workspace, labs, coaching and mentoring · Duration: 6 to 12 months, depending on incubator
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: yes · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Main residence in Berlin for the whole stipend period
- Deadline: Second call (EUR 31m, ~680 founders) runs in incubator batches to 2028. Two batches are open now (earliest closes 4 Nov 2026) and three more open between late Nov and Dec 2026. BSS Match shows which incubator fits and its exact dates.
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Technology-based business idea with at least a prototype or comparable development stage
- Teams usually 2 to 5 people (HTW route: 2 to 4); solo eligibility not stated and varies by incubator
- Full-time participation (35 to 40 h/week), generally on site at the incubator
- Main residence in Berlin for the whole funding period
- No previous EXIST or comparable founder stipend
- Incorporating during the stipend is allowed
- BSS Women track for teams with at least 51% women (at least EUR 6.6m of the EUR 31m budget)
- Apply to one of the 10 incubators in its batch window

Common blockers:
- No prototype yet
- Not full-time
- No Berlin main residence
- Already received EXIST or another founder stipend
- Applying to an incubator route that does not accept solo founders

From the official PDF "Berlin Startup Scholarship – programme basics and list of project partners" (https://www.berlin.de/sen/wirtschaft/gruenden-und-foerdern/gruendungs-und-startup-foerderung/finanzielle-foerderung/zuschuesse/20260420_eng_uebersicht_berlinde_final.pdf):
- You need at least an initial business plan and a prototype or prototype-like process (p. 1)
- Founding teams are usually 2 to 5 people; incubators select in their own competitions (p. 1)
- BSS Women: female solo founders or teams with at least 51% women; childcare support (p. 2)

From the official PDF "2. Aufruf (Fördercall) zur Einreichung von Anträgen – Berliner Startup Stipendium & Berliner Startup Stipendium Women" (https://www.berlin.de/sen/wirtschaft/gruenden-und-foerdern/gruendungs-und-startup-foerderung/finanzielle-foerderung/zuschuesse/2.-foerdercall.pdf):
- Stipend max EUR 2,500 per person per month (p. 7)
- Main residence in Berlin for the whole stipend, shown by registration certificate or ID (p. 4)
- Full-time participation, 35 to 40 hours per week (p. 5)
- You must declare no prior EXIST or comparable founder stipend (p. 6)
- Founding a company during the stipend is allowed and encouraged (p. 5)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.berlin.de/sen/web/presse/pressemitteilungen/2026/pressemitteilung.1653813.php , https://www.berlin.de/sen/wirtschaft/gruenden-und-foerdern/gruendungs-und-startup-foerderung/finanzielle-foerderung/zuschuesse/20260420_eng_uebersicht_berlinde_final.pdf , https://www.berlin.de/sen/wirtschaft/gruenden-und-foerdern/gruendungs-und-startup-foerderung/finanzielle-foerderung/zuschuesse/2.-foerdercall.pdf

## EXIST Business Start-up Grant (EXIST-Gründungsstipendium)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/exist-gruendungsstipendium
- Official: https://www.ptj.de/projektfoerderung/exist/gruendungsstipendium
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Stipend · Provider: BMWE / Projektträger Jülich (applied via host university)
- Amount: Per person per month for 12 months: EUR 3,000 (PhD), 2,500 (graduates), 2,000 (vocational qualification), 1,000 (students); + EUR 150 per child; + materials up to EUR 10,000 (solo) or 30,000 (team); + EUR 5,000 coaching · Duration: 12 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: yes · Company required: no · University link required: yes
- Deadline: No fixed deadlines; the host institution can submit at any time, and funding can start 3 months after a complete application. The current guideline accepts applications until 31 Dec 2027 (guideline in force until 31 Dec 2029).
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Researchers, graduates or former academic staff (up to 5 years after degree or leaving), or students with at least half of their studies done (students only as part of a team)
- Teams of up to 3; one member may have a vocational qualification or an older degree
- The university or research institution (founding network) submits the application to PtJ
- Innovative product or service with good economic prospects
- Company may only be founded after funding starts
- No other stipend, employment or living-cost funding at the same time (paused job/sabbatical is OK); paid side work max 20 h/month
- Teams made up mostly of students are funded only in exceptional cases

Common blockers:
- No university/research link
- Already incorporated
- Employed or on another stipend at the same time
- Paid side work over 20 hours per month
- No host institution willing to sponsor

From the official PDF "Richtlinie zur Förderung von Unternehmensgründungen (EXIST-Gründungsstipendium) im Rahmen des Programms „Existenzgründungen aus der Wissenschaft“" (https://www.ptj.de/lw_resource/datapool/systemfiles/cbox/1426/live/lw_file/richtlinie-egs-18-04-2023-281-29.pdf):
- Per month: EUR 3,000 PhD, 2,500 graduate, 2,000 vocational, 1,000 student; +EUR 150 per child (p. 3)
- Materials up to EUR 10,000 (solo) or 30,000 (team), plus up to EUR 5,000 coaching; max 3 people (p. 3)
- Degree or last university/research job no more than 5 years ago; students need half their studies done (p. 2)
- Company may be founded during funding, but not before the project starts (p. 2)
- No parallel stipend, job or living-cost funding; paid side work max 20 hours per month (p. 2)
- Applications can be filed until 31 Dec 2027; guideline valid until 31 Dec 2029 (p. 7)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.ptj.de/projektfoerderung/exist/gruendungsstipendium , https://www.ptj.de/lw_resource/datapool/systemfiles/cbox/1426/live/lw_file/richtlinie-egs-18-04-2023-281-29.pdf , https://exist.de/programm/gruendungsstipendium/antragsstellung/ , https://www.exist.de/EXIST/Navigation/DE/Gruendungsfoerderung/EXIST-Gruendungsstipendium/exist-gruendungsstipendium.html

## EXIST Women (EXIST Women)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/exist-women
- Official: https://exist.de/programm/women/
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Coaching · Provider: BMWE / Projektträger Jülich with participating universities and research institutions
- Amount: EUR 2,000 material budget per participant plus mentoring, workshops and coaching; some participants also get a stipend of up to 3 months (EUR 1,000 to 3,000/month by qualification, + EUR 150 per child), at the host's discretion · Duration: up to 10 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: yes
- Deadline: Each participating institution sets its own call, often in the first quarter of the year. Institutions applied for the 2027 round by 30 Sep 2026; one more institution round closes 30 Sep 2027, the last under the current guideline. Founder calls for the 2027 cohort are expected from late 2026 / early 2027.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Women students (at least 50% of degree completed), graduates, researchers, staff of universities or research institutions, or women with a vocational qualification
- First founding idea, early stage is fine
- Apply through a participating university or research institution, not to EXIST directly
- No corporation (e.g. UG, GmbH) founded before the project starts; founding during the programme is allowed
- Not if you already had, or now have, another EXIST start-up grant or a state grant for innovative start-ups
- Stipend only for 3 months without income or with at most 20 h/week of paid work; not combinable with other living-cost funding
- Mandatory two-day in-person seminar in Berlin or Munich

Common blockers:
- No connection to a participating institution
- Already founded a corporation
- Already received EXIST or a state founder grant
- Working more than 20 h/week (no stipend)

From the official PDF "Richtlinie zur Förderung von Unternehmerinnen in der Vorgründungsphase (EXIST-Women)" (https://exist.de/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Richtlinie-EXIST-Women-vom-21-11-2024.pdf):
- Material budget up to EUR 2,000 per founder (lump sum) (p. 4)
- Stipend for 3 months only if you earn nothing or work at most 20 h/week (p. 2)
- Stipend per month: EUR 1,000 student, 2,000 vocational, 2,500 graduate, 3,000 PhD; +EUR 150 per child (p. 3)
- No company (Kapitalgesellschaft) may exist at project start; founding during the project is allowed (p. 2)
- Not possible after another EXIST start-up grant or a state grant for innovative start-ups (p. 2)
- Institutions apply by 30 Sep each year, last time 30 Sep 2027; founders apply via the institution (p. 6)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://exist.de/programm/women/ , https://exist.de/programm/women/bewerbung/ , https://exist.de/programm/women/antragsstellung/ , https://exist.de/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Richtlinie-EXIST-Women-vom-21-11-2024.pdf

## GründungsBONUS Plus (GründungsBONUS Plus)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/gruendungsbonus-plus
- Official: https://www.ibb.de/de/foerderprogramme/gruendungsbonus.html
- Region: Berlin · Type: Grant · Provider: State of Berlin / IBB Business Team
- Amount: 50% grant of eligible costs, max EUR 50,000 (de minimis), paid as reimbursement in up to 4 instalments · Duration: expenses within 2 years of application
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company seat and funded site in Berlin for at least 3 years after final payment
- Deadline: Open; applications accepted until 30 Sep 2027 (guideline of 16 Jan 2026, valid until 31 Dec 2027).
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Profit-oriented start-up (trade business, freelancer or corporation) formally established at application
- Micro-enterprise, not older than 18 months at application
- Founders together hold more than 50% of shares and run the company
- Innovative technological, digital, creative or social business model (strong sustainability can offset weaker innovation)
- Excluded: construction, gastronomy and hotels (unless an ecological, sustainable-food or energy-efficiency innovation) and retail (except mail order and some sustainable products)
- Eligible: materials and investments, operating costs, salaries up to EUR 2,000 gross/month per person, external services
- Founder salaries max 25% and all personnel costs max 60% of total eligible costs
- Apply online before signing contracts for funded investments

Common blockers:
- Company older than 18 months
- Own contribution of 50% not available
- Contracts signed before application
- Excluded sector
- Not innovative enough

From the official PDF "Richtlinie des Landes Berlin zur Förderung von Unternehmensgründungen (Startups) im Rahmen des Programms „Gründungsbonus Plus“" (https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/gruendungsbonus-plus/richtlinie-gruendungsbonus-plus.pdf):
- 50% of eligible costs, max EUR 50,000; costs must arise within 2 years (section 5.2)
- Company max 18 months old at online application, fewer than 10 employees (section 3.1)
- Founders hold more than 50% of shares (section 3.1)
- Salaries max EUR 2,000 gross/month per person; founder costs max 25%, personnel max 60% (5.2)
- No project start before the application arrives; signed supply contracts are not eligible (4.1)
- Seat stays in Berlin at least 3 years after final payment; apply by 30 Sep 2027 (4.3, 8)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.ibb.de/de/foerderprogramme/gruendungsbonus.html , https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/gruendungsbonus-plus/richtlinie-gruendungsbonus-plus.pdf , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Berlin/gruendungsbonusplus-unterstuetzung-aufbau-startup.html

## Pro FIT Early-Stage Financing (Pro FIT / Frühphasenfinanzierung)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/pro-fit-fruehphase
- Official: https://www.ibb.de/de/foerderprogramme/pro-fit-fruehphasenfinanzierung.html
- Region: Berlin · Type: Grant · Provider: State of Berlin / IBB
- Amount: Up to 100% of eligible costs, max EUR 500,000. Phase 1 (up to EUR 200,000): 50% grant, 50% loan (usually interest-free). Phase 2: loan only. Loans up to 10 years, no collateral · Duration: up to 4 years (phase 1 up to 1 year, phase 2 up to 3 years)
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company (Kapitalgesellschaft) with registered seat in Berlin
- Deadline: Continuous application via the IBB customer portal; funding committee decides monthly. Current rules apply to applications received by 31 Dec 2027.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Newly founded technology-oriented small company, organised as a corporation (e.g. GmbH/UG) with seat in Berlin; register entry not yet required
- Company max. 12 months old at application (phase 2 only: max. 24 months, no profits distributed)
- Founders hold at least 75%; business angels up to 25%; no institutional investors at application
- At least one experienced mentor who invests (usually min. 5% of the funding, at least EUR 10,000)
- Planned R&D anchor project with technical risk
- Eligible: management/admin staff, general equipment, operating costs; phase 1 also R&D, marketing and sales staff preparing the anchor project

Common blockers:
- Company older than 12 months
- No investing mentor
- Institutional investor already on the cap table
- Project not technologically innovative
- Not a corporation
- Starting before IBB approves early start

From the official PDF "Durchführungsbestimmungen „Pro FIT Frühphasenfinanzierung“ (Zuschüsse und Darlehen zur Frühphasenfinanzierung von Technologieunternehmen)" (https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/profit/profit-fruehphasenfinanzierung/profit_db_fruehphase.pdf):
- Max EUR 500,000 per company; phase 1 up to EUR 200,000 (p. 4)
- Phase 1: half grant, half loan (can be interest-free); phase 2: loan only; up to 10 years, no collateral (p. 3)
- Company (Kapitalgesellschaft, Berlin seat) max 12 months old at application; phase 2 only: 24 months (p. 2)
- Founders hold at least 75%; business angels up to 25%; no institutional investors at application (p. 2)
- At least one mentor must invest, usually 5% of the funding, minimum EUR 10,000 (p. 3)
- Start work only after IBB has received the application and agreed (p. 6)

From the official PDF "Pro FIT - Frühphasenfinanzierung: Allgemeine Checkliste" (https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/profit/profit-fruehphasenfinanzierung/checkliste_profit_fruehphase.pdf):
- For the eligibility check: financial plan (FrühphasenFinanzplaner), business plan, full CV (p. 1)
- Short description of the R&D anchor project incl. state of the art and technical risk (p. 1)
- Mentor details, draft articles with shareholder list, copy of registration filing, SME declaration (p. 1)
- Before approval: signature sheet, trade/tax registration, proof of GoBD-compliant bookkeeping (p. 1)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.ibb.de/de/foerderprogramme/pro-fit-fruehphasenfinanzierung.html , https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/profit/profit-fruehphasenfinanzierung/profit_db_fruehphase.pdf , https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/profit/profit-fruehphasenfinanzierung/checkliste_profit_fruehphase.pdf , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Berlin/pro-fit-fruehphasenfinanzierung.html

## Start-up Subsidy (Gründungszuschuss) (Gründungszuschuss (§93 SGB III))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/gruendungszuschuss
- Official: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/arbeitslosengeld/gruendungszuschuss-beantragen
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Benefit-linked support · Provider: Bundesagentur für Arbeit (local Agentur für Arbeit)
- Amount: 6 months: last ALG I amount + EUR 300/month for social insurance; then optionally 9 months EUR 300/month (separate application). Tax-free · Duration: 6 + 9 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Deadline: No deadline; apply while on ALG I and before starting the business.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Receiving ALG I with at least 150 days of remaining entitlement when self-employment starts
- Self-employment as main occupation (at least 15 h/week; other work must be less)
- Expert opinion on viability (fachkundige Stelle, e.g. IHK, HWK, bank, consultancy)
- Apply and get approval before starting
- Discretionary benefit, no legal entitlement
- Generally not available if you quit your job yourself to found
- Not if a previous founder subsidy from the agency ended less than 24 months ago
- Phase 2 (9 months x EUR 300) needs a written report showing intensive, full-time business activity

Common blockers:
- Less than 150 days ALG I left
- Business already started
- Quit own job (self-caused unemployment)
- Agency rejects (discretionary)
- On Grundsicherung instead of ALG I (Einstiegsgeld route applies)
- Previous founder subsidy less than 24 months ago

From the official PDF "Fachliche Weisungen (FW) zum Gründungszuschuss, §§ 93, 94 SGB III" (https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/dok_ba024940.pdf):
- At least 150 days of ALG entitlement must remain when self-employment starts
- 6 months: last ALG + EUR 300/month; then up to 9 months EUR 300/month
- Phase 2 only with a written report showing intensive, full-time business activity
- Needed: business description, CV, capital and financing plan, expert opinion (fachkundige Stelle)
- Excluded if a previous founder subsidy ended less than 24 months ago
- Discretionary benefit: you are entitled only to a fair decision, not to the money

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/arbeitslosengeld/gruendungszuschuss-beantragen , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/arbeitslosengeld/existenzgruendung-gruendungszuschuss , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/dok_ba024940.pdf

## Entry Allowance for Self-Employment (Einstiegsgeld) (Einstiegsgeld (§16b SGB II))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/einstiegsgeld
- Official: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/buergergeld/arbeit-finden/einstiegsgeld-fuer-selbststaendigkeit
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Benefit-linked support · Provider: Jobcenter
- Amount: Set case by case on top of Grundsicherungsgeld: base up to 50% of the standard rate (up to about EUR 281/month for a single person, 2026 rate EUR 563), plus 20% if unemployed 2+ years and 10% per extra household member; capped at the full standard rate. Alternatively a flat rate of up to 75% of the standard rate without supplements. Up to 24 months · Duration: up to 24 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Receiving Grundsicherungsgeld (SGB II) from your local Jobcenter
- Deadline: No fixed dates; apply before starting the business.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Receiving Grundsicherungsgeld (formerly Bürgergeld, SGB II)
- Self-employment as main occupation (at least 15 h/week), not yet started
- Personally suited; business plan shows you can leave benefits within 24 months
- Documents: CV, business plan, financing plan, 3-year revenue and profit forecast; third-party assessment may be required
- Discretionary decision of the Jobcenter, no legal entitlement

Common blockers:
- No SGB II entitlement
- Business already started
- Plan not judged viable within 24 months
- Jobcenter discretion

From the official PDF "Fachliche Weisungen § 16b SGB II – Einstiegsgeld" (https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/fw-sgb-ii-16b_ba034550.pdf):
- Base amount up to 50% of your standard rate (Regelbedarf) (p. 15)
- +20% if unemployed 2+ years, +10% per extra household member; capped at full standard rate (p. 16)
- Or a flat rate up to 75% of the standard rate, without supplements (p. 17)
- Paid for at most 24 months, from the day the business starts (p. 14)
- Apply before you actually start working in the business (p. 9)
- Bring business plan, CV, financing plan, 3-year revenue and profit forecast, needed licences (p. 12)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/buergergeld/arbeit-finden/einstiegsgeld-fuer-selbststaendigkeit , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/fw-sgb-ii-16b_ba034550.pdf , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/weisung-202609002_ba059717.pdf , https://www.berlin.de/jobcenter-pankow/arbeit-und-ausbildung/existenzgruendung/ , https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/aktuelles/nullrunde-buergergeld-2383676

## Founder Coaching via AVGS voucher (AVGS Gründungscoaching (§45 SGB III))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/avgs-gruendercoaching
- Official: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/arbeitslosengeld/existenzgruendung-gruendungszuschuss
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Voucher · Provider: Agentur für Arbeit / Jobcenter
- Amount: Reasonable costs of an approved coaching measure paid by the agency via the voucher; scope and hours set on the voucher · Duration: voucher-dependent
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Deadline: Ongoing; request the voucher from your case worker before starting the business.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Registered as unemployed, at risk of unemployment or job-seeking with the Agentur für Arbeit; Jobcenter clients ask the Jobcenter. Receiving benefits is not a legal requirement, but vouchers mostly go to benefit recipients
- Not for people who are already self-employed as their main occupation (full-time freelancers and founders)
- Purpose 'preparing for self-employment' (§45 Abs. 1 Nr. 4 SGB III)
- Provider and measure must be approved under AZAV and listed in the BA coaching search
- Discretionary: no legal entitlement for founder coaching
- Voucher ends when you take up full-time self-employment, so use it before starting

Common blockers:
- Not registered with the agency
- Already self-employed full time (e.g. registered freelancer working on the startup)
- Voucher refused (discretionary)
- Provider not AZAV-approved
- Business already started

From the official PDF "Fachliche Weisungen MAT: Maßnahmen bei einem Träger nach § 45 SGB III" (https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/dok_ba034670.pdf):
- Coaching purpose 'Heranführung an eine selbständige Tätigkeit' (§ 45 para. 1 no. 4); reasonable costs paid (p. 3)
- For people registered as unemployed, at risk of unemployment, or seeking training (p. 5)
- Provider and course must be approved under AZAV (p. 9)
- Discretionary: the agency decides based on suitability and personal circumstances (p. 4)
- Participation ends when unemployment ends, including starting full-time self-employment (p. 18)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/dok_ba034670.pdf , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/vor-ort/datei/avgs_ba245040.pdf , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/arbeitslos-arbeit-finden/arbeitslosengeld/existenzgruendung-gruendungszuschuss

## Support for the Self-Employed (SGB II 16c) (Leistungen zur Eingliederung von Selbständigen (§16c SGB II))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/les-16c-sgb2
- Official: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/grundsicherung/arbeit-finden/existenzgruendung/leistungen-zur-eingliederung-von-selbstaendigen
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Grant · Provider: Jobcenter
- Amount: Usually a loan, grant only in individual cases (grants capped at EUR 5,000 per business; loans can be higher) for necessary business equipment; plus free coaching via third-party providers
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: unclear
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Receiving Grundsicherungsgeld (SGB II) from your local Jobcenter
- Deadline: No deadline; apply to the Jobcenter before purchasing.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Receiving or entitled to Grundsicherungsgeld (formerly Bürgergeld)
- Starting, running or expanding self-employment as main occupation (at least 15 h/week)
- Viability confirmed by a qualified body (form 'Empfehlung der fachkundigen Stelle')
- No other funding available (bank loans, microloans, federal/state programmes)
- Covers equipment such as computers, software, furniture, website/marketing, vehicles, tools, rental deposits; not running costs or old debts
- Buy only items agreed with the Jobcenter in advance
- Not for people topping up ALG I with SGB II (Alg-Aufstocker)
- Loan repayment normally starts only once you no longer need benefits

Common blockers:
- No SGB II entitlement (on ALG I instead)
- Purchase not necessary or reasonable
- Bank financing available
- Discretionary denial

From the official PDF "Fachliche Weisungen § 16c SGB II – Leistungen zur Eingliederung von Selbständigen" (https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/fw-16c-sgb-2_ba057902.pdf):
- Grants may not exceed EUR 5,000 per business; loans can be higher (p. 2)
- Usually a loan; grants preferred for smaller purchases; running costs not covered (p. 13)
- New business must be viable within 24 months; expert opinion needed before the decision (p. 9)
- No expert opinion needed for support up to EUR 500 (p. 10)
- Use other reasonable financing first, e.g. microloans (p. 12)
- Not for people topping up ALG I with SGB II benefits (Alg-Aufstocker) (p. 6)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/grundsicherung/arbeit-finden/existenzgruendung/leistungen-zur-eingliederung-von-selbstaendigen , https://www.arbeitsagentur.de/datei/fw-16c-sgb-2_ba057902.pdf , https://www.berlin.de/jobcenter-pankow/arbeit-und-ausbildung/existenzgruendung/

## Prototype Fund (Prototype Fund)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/prototype-fund
- Official: https://www.prototypefund.de/en/application
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Grant · Provider: Open Knowledge Foundation Germany with DLR Projektträger, funded by BMFTR
- Amount: Up to EUR 47,500 (individual) or EUR 95,000 (team) for 6 months; optional 4-month Second Stage up to EUR 31,667 (individual) or about EUR 63,000 (team) · Duration: 6 months (+4 optional)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Individuals must live in Germany; team members may live elsewhere in the EU, team forms a GbR based in Germany after selection
- Deadline: Class 03 application phase 1 Oct to 30 Nov 2026 (open now).
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Individual developers or teams of up to 4 people, of legal age
- Open-source software project (open hardware not eligible)
- Companies, associations, universities and other institutions cannot apply
- Focus areas: data security and software infrastructure
- Second Stage must be requested in the original application
- Hourly rate capped at EUR 50; a bank statement must show your own contribution

Common blockers:
- Not open source
- Applying as a company or institution
- Individual not living in Germany
- Hardware project

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.prototypefund.de/en/application , https://www.prototypefund.de/en/funding

## IBB Ventures (B# Pre-Seed and VC funds) (IBB Ventures B# Pre-Seed / VC-Fonds)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/ibb-ventures-pre-seed
- Official: https://bsharp.vc/
- Region: Berlin · Type: Investment · Provider: IBB Beteiligungsgesellschaft (IBB Ventures)
- Amount: B# pre-seed: EUR 100k to 400k in convertibles (+EUR 100k if at least one female founder); IBB Ventures seed/Series A EUR 200k to 1m, follow-ons up to EUR 4m (6m in individual cases)
- Equity: equity · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company headquartered in Berlin
- Deadline: Rolling: apply any time via the application form (bsharp.vc for B#, ibbventures.de/en/apply for other funds); no calls.
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- B#: Berlin deep-tech start-ups at pre-seed, typically up to 18 months old (digital tech, climate and energy, industrial transformation, sustainability, biotech/life sciences)
- IBB Ventures funds (Tech, Creative, Impact): Berlin HQ, pre-seed to Series A, usually product and early product-market fit
- Co-investment with private investors typical
- Equity or convertible, not a grant

Common blockers:
- Not deep-tech (for B#) or not headquartered in Berlin
- No product or early traction (for the main funds)
- Business model not scalable

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://bsharp.vc/ , https://www.ibbventures.de/en/approach , https://www.ibbventures.de/llms.txt , https://www.berlin.de/sen/web/presse/pressemitteilungen/2025/pressemitteilung.1606817.php

## Transfer BONUS (Transfer BONUS (Technologie-, Wissens-, Design- und Gamification/XR-Transfer))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/transfer-bonus
- Official: https://www.ibb-business-team.de/transfer-bonus/
- Region: Berlin · Type: Voucher · Provider: State of Berlin / IBB Business Team
- Amount: Entry up to EUR 7,500 (100%), standard up to EUR 15,000 (70%), digitalisation up to EUR 45,000 (70%), gamification/XR up to EUR 45,000 (70%) · Duration: up to 6 months (entry/standard), up to 12 months (digitalisation, gamification/XR)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: SME with seat or operating site in Berlin
- Deadline: Open. Current guideline runs 1 Jan 2025 to 31 Dec 2026; apply online via IBB Business Team before 31 Dec 2026. Successor after 2026 not announced.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Technology-oriented commercial SME (EU definition) with seat or site in Berlin; freelancers (Freiberufler) are not eligible
- Contract with a research, design or games/XR partner that has its seat or a site in Berlin or Brandenburg
- Apply before starting: work may begin only after the grant notice; commission the partner within 3 months
- Standard variant up to 3 separate projects within 3 years; digitalisation once only

Common blockers:
- No transfer partner
- Partner outside Berlin/Brandenburg
- Freelancer (Freiberufler) instead of commercial business
- Project already started
- Guideline ends 31 Dec 2026

From the official PDF "Richtlinien des Landes Berlin für das Programm „Transfer BONUS“" (https://www.ibb-business-team.de/fileadmin/ibb-business-team/transfer-bonus/downloads/transfer-bonus-richtlinie-foerderprogramm.pdf):
- Entry: 100% funding for projects up to EUR 7,500; standard: up to 70%, max EUR 15,000 (p. 6)
- Digitalisation and gamification/XR: grant up to EUR 45,000 (standard variant, up to 70%) (p. 7)
- Max 6 months for entry/standard, 12 months for digitalisation and gamification/XR (p. 6)
- Work may start only after the grant notice (Zuwendungsbescheid) is issued (p. 8)
- Transfer partner must have its seat or a site in Berlin or Brandenburg (p. 5)
- Freelancers (Freiberufler) are not eligible; standard variant max 3 projects in 3 years (p. 4)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.ibb-business-team.de/transfer-bonus/ , https://www.ibb-business-team.de/en/transfer-bonus/ , https://www.ibb-business-team.de/fileadmin/ibb-business-team/transfer-bonus/downloads/transfer-bonus-richtlinie-foerderprogramm.pdf

## Medienboard Games and Interactive Content Funding (Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg Games und interaktive Inhalte)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/medienboard-games-interactive
- Official: https://www.medienboard.de/foerderung-games
- Region: Berlin · Type: Loan · Provider: Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg (payout via ILB)
- Amount: Success-contingent, interest-free loan: development/prototype usually up to EUR 300k (typically 50% of costs, up to 80% in exceptions), production usually up to EUR 600k (up to 50%); ILB fee 3% · Duration: project-based
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat, branch or office in Berlin or Brandenburg (or by first payout)
- Deadline: Next application deadline 27 Oct 2026 (1st 2027 funding session); application meetings must be held by 13 Oct 2026. Further 2027 dates not yet published.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Companies or sole traders whose main business is game development, with seat/branch/office in Berlin-Brandenburg
- Prototype/development, production and DLC funding
- Mandatory application meeting at least two weeks before the deadline
- One application per applicant per funding session; at least the granted amount must be spent in Berlin-Brandenburg; cultural test

Common blockers:
- No Berlin/Brandenburg establishment
- Insufficient own funds (production: at least 5% of costs) or co-financing
- Missed application meeting or deadline

From the official PDF "Merkblatt Games und interaktive Inhalte" (https://www.medienboard.de/fileadmin/user_upload/pdf/Richtlinien-Merkblaetter/2026_02_25_Merkblatt_GAMES_UND_INTERAKTIVE_INHALTE.pdf):
- Prototype: loan usually 50% of costs (up to 80% in exceptions), usually max EUR 300,000 (p. 3)
- Production: up to 50% of eligible costs, usually max EUR 600,000; own funds at least 5% (p. 3)
- Mandatory consultation at least 2 weeks before the deadline; online portal opens only after it (p. 2)
- Only one application per applicant per funding session (p. 2)
- ILB fee 3% of the loan (min EUR 500), withheld from the first payout (p. 4)
- Production: 50% of developer revenue repays the loan after own funds, usually for 5 years (p. 5)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.medienboard.de/foerderung-games , https://www.medienboard.de/foerderung-games/einreichtermine-new-media-foerderung-1 , https://www.medienboard.de/fileadmin/user_upload/pdf/Richtlinien-Merkblaetter/2026_02_25_Merkblatt_GAMES_UND_INTERAKTIVE_INHALTE.pdf

## KfW ERP Start-up Loan StartGeld (ERP-Gründerkredit - StartGeld (067))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/kfw-startgeld
- Official: https://www.kfw.de/inlandsfoerderung/Unternehmen/Gründen-Nachfolgen/Förderprodukte/ERP-Gründerkredit-Startgeld-(067)/
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Loan · Provider: KfW via Hausbank
- Amount: Up to EUR 200,000 (working capital up to EUR 80,000); KfW takes 80% of the bank's risk; fixed, ERP-subsidised interest (current rates at kfw.de/konditionen) · Duration: up to 5 years (1 grace year) or up to 10 years (2 grace years)
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business founded in Germany
- Deadline: Always open via Hausbank.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Founders, freelancers and small businesses under 5 years since first revenue
- Fewer than 50 employees and turnover or balance sheet up to EUR 10m
- Side-business (Nebenerwerb) start-ups eligible
- Application via house bank before project start

Common blockers:
- Hausbank refuses to pass on loan
- No collateral or income track
- Business plan weak
- Project already started (follow-up and refinancing not eligible)

From the official PDF "ERP-Gründerkredit StartGeld – Merkblatt Kredit Nr. 067" (https://www.kfw.de/PDF/Download-Center/F%C3%B6rderprogramme-%28Inlandsf%C3%B6rderung%29/PDF-Dokumente/6000002258_M_067_StartGeld.pdf):
- Max EUR 200,000 per project, of which max EUR 80,000 for working capital (p. 4)
- For founders and small firms active under 5 years since first revenue; <50 staff, max EUR 10m (p. 2)
- Side-business (Nebenerwerb) start-ups are eligible; refinancing of started projects is not (p. 3)
- Up to 5 years (1 grace year) or 10 years (2 grace years); apply before project start (p. 5)
- KfW takes 80% of the bank's risk (Haftungsfreistellung) (p. 2)
- Usual bank collateral; for a GmbH/UG shareholders co-guarantee pro rata (p. 6)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.kfw.de/PDF/Download-Center/F%C3%B6rderprogramme-%28Inlandsf%C3%B6rderung%29/PDF-Dokumente/6000002258_M_067_StartGeld.pdf

## INVEST Grant for Venture Capital (INVEST - Zuschuss für Wagniskapital)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/invest-bafa
- Official: https://www.bafa.de/DE/Wirtschaft/Beratung_Finanzierung/Invest/invest_node.html
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Tax credit · Provider: BAFA
- Amount: For investors: 15% acquisition grant (max EUR 50k per investment, EUR 100k per investor in total) plus 25% exit grant on gains; founders benefit indirectly
- Equity: equity · Repayable: no
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company seated in the EEA with a branch or site in Germany
- Deadline: Acquisition-grant applications must be complete by 31 Dec 2026 under the current guideline; extension or successor not announced. Exit-grant applications until 30 Jun 2037.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Applies to business angels investing in young innovative companies
- Founder needs an eligible angel investor (min. EUR 10k per payment, 3-year holding)
- Company is a GmbH/UG/AG or cooperative, under 7 years old, under 50 FTE, turnover or balance sheet up to EUR 10m
- Up to EUR 3m subsidised investment per company per year

Common blockers:
- Founder has no angel investor
- Company too old or too large
- Not a corporation (e.g. sole trader)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.bafa.de/DE/Wirtschaft/Beratung_Finanzierung/Invest/invest_node.html , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Bund/BAFA/invest-zuschuss-fuer-wagniskapital.html

## German Accelerator (German Accelerator)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/german-accelerator
- Official: https://www.germanaccelerator.com/
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Accelerator · Provider: German Accelerator (funded by BMWE)
- Amount: Fully funded, free of charge, no equity; expert guidance, partnerships and network for market entry · Duration: about 2 weeks (Kickstart) to 3-6 months (Market Access)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company incorporated in Germany (UG, GmbH, AG, GmbH & Co. KG; GbR case by case)
- Deadline: Rolling: apply via the eligibility form at any time; no fixed deadlines published.
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- German start-ups planning expansion abroad (US, Asia, LatAm, Europe, Africa)
- SME under EU definition, within de minimis aid limit
- Programmes: Kickstart, Market Discovery, Market Access, plus market/sector tracks
- Start with the online eligibility check

Common blockers:
- No product/traction
- No international expansion plan
- Not incorporated in Germany

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.germanaccelerator.com/ , https://www.germanaccelerator.com/our-programs/market-access , https://www.germanaccelerator.com/check-your-eligibility

## EIC Accelerator (grant-only) (EIC Accelerator)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/eic-accelerator
- Official: https://eic.ec.europa.eu/eic-funding-opportunities/eic-accelerator_en
- Region: European Union · Type: Grant · Provider: European Innovation Council (European Commission)
- Amount: Grant-only: lump sum below EUR 2.5m for TRL 6-8 work up to 24 months; blended option adds EUR 1-10m equity · Duration: up to 24 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company in EU/associated country (or natural person setting one up there)
- Deadline: Last 2026 full-proposal cut-off 4 Nov 2026, 17:00 Brussels (only after passing the short stage); short proposals any time, batched first Tuesday monthly. 2027 cut-offs not yet published.
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Single start-up or SME; natural persons setting up an SME may also apply
- TRL 6-8 innovation with scale-up potential
- Grant-only available once during Horizon Europe (2021-2027)
- Short proposal first (any time): 12-page form, 10-slide pitch deck, 3-min video; full proposal only after passing it
- Company must be set up before signing the grant agreement; max 3 unsuccessful submissions under Horizon Europe

Common blockers:
- Too early (below TRL 6)
- No prior proof of market
- Non-EU entity
- Weak impact/scale case

From the official PDF "EIC Accelerator guide for applicants (Work Programme 2026)" (https://eic.ec.europa.eu/document/download/9d96fbf3-4d85-4ad0-9483-c77ce348111d_en?filename=EIC%20Accelerator%20guide%20for%20applicants_WP26.pdf):
- Grant-only: max EUR 2,499,999; innovation activities must finish within 24 months (p. 44)
- Technology must have completed all of TRL 5; grant cannot fund work above TRL 8 (p. 45)
- Short proposal: 12-page form, pitch deck max 10 slides, video max 3 minutes (p. 38)
- Short proposal needs GO from 3 of 4 experts; results in about 4-6 weeks (p. 36)
- Natural persons may apply, but the company must exist before the contract is signed (p. 11)
- After 3 unsuccessful submissions you cannot reapply under Horizon Europe (p. 50)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://eic.ec.europa.eu/eic-funding-opportunities/eic-accelerator_en , https://eic.ec.europa.eu/document/download/9d96fbf3-4d85-4ad0-9483-c77ce348111d_en?filename=EIC%20Accelerator%20guide%20for%20applicants_WP26.pdf

## Women TechEU (Women TechEU)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/women-techeu
- Official: https://womentecheurope.eu/active-calls/
- Region: European Union · Type: Grant · Provider: EIC / EISMEA
- Amount: EUR 75,000 non-dilutive grant plus coaching and mentoring · Duration: 6-month business development programme
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company in EU member state or Horizon associated country
- Deadline: Open. Eligibility check: weekly cut-offs every Tuesday 17:00 CET until 15 Jun 2027. Full proposals (after passing eligibility): 14 Jan 2027, 1 Apr 2027, 8 Jul 2027.
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Woman founder/co-founder in CEO/CTO-level role; women hold at least 25% of shares
- Company registered 6 months to 5 years before the eligibility cut-off
- Deep tech at TRL 4-6
- Under EUR 1m equity raised; EU SME definition
- No prior Women TechEU or EIC Accelerator support

Common blockers:
- Company under 6 months old
- Not deep tech
- Raised over EUR 1m equity
- Women hold under 25% of shares
- Woman founder joined as shareholder over 1 year after registration

From the official PDF "Women TechEU – Guidelines for applicants: Eligibility Strand (V9.0)" (https://womentecheurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WomenTechEU_Guidelines_Eligibility-V9.0.pdf):
- Company registered at least 6 months and at most 5 years at the eligibility cut-off
- Women hold at least 25% of shares at submission; a woman is CEO, CTO, CSO or equivalent
- Woman co-founder must have acquired shares within 1 year of company registration
- Deep tech at TRL 4-6; less than EUR 1m equity raised
- No prior Women TechEU or EIC Accelerator support; max 3 resubmissions of the eligibility check
- EUR 75,000 grant plus a 6-month business development programme

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://womentecheurope.eu/ , https://womentecheurope.eu/active-calls/ , https://womentecheurope.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WomenTechEU_Guidelines_Eligibility-V9.0.pdf

## Google for Startups Accelerator Europe (Google for Startups Accelerator: Europe and Israel)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/google-for-startups-accelerator-europe
- Official: https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/europe/
- Region: European Union · Type: Accelerator · Provider: Google
- Amount: Equity-free 3-month programme: mentoring, Google expert support, cloud and product credits · Duration: 3 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: no · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: HQ in Europe or Israel
- Deadline: Applications closed: 2026 call ran 4 May to 12 Jun 2026 (cohort Sep-Dec 2026). Next call not announced.
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Pre-Seed to post-Series A, revenue-generating with traction
- AI/ML-based technology; 2026 theme: AI for the energy transition
- At least 5 employees; CTO/technical leads must attend sessions
- Annual themed cohorts

Common blockers:
- Solo founder / team under 5
- No revenue or traction
- Cohort theme mismatch

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://startup.google.com/programs/accelerator/europe/

## InnoStartBonus Saxony (Innovative Unternehmensgründungen (InnoStartBonus))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/innostartbonus-sachsen
- Official: https://www.futuresax.de/gruenden/innostartbonus
- Region: Saxony · Type: Stipend · Provider: Freistaat Sachsen / futureSAX (selection) / SAB (payout)
- Amount: EUR 1,050/month per founder + EUR 150/month per dependent child; up to 12 months · Duration: Up to 12 months (months 7-12 paid only after the company is registered)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Main residence in Saxony (in a team, one founder main residence, the other may have secondary residence); company seat in Saxony; age 18+
- Deadline: Call 17 is open now; its deadline is not yet published. Calls close about twice a year (Call 15 ~Apr 2026, Call 16 closed 15 Sep 2026).
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Innovative product/service/process/business-model idea, any sector
- Solo founder or team; max 2 founders funded
- Company not yet founded at approval (side business to main business allowed)
- No other paid work over 20 h/week during funding
- Idea paper via 'Mein futureSAX' portal, expert panel + pitch, then formal SAB application

Common blockers:
- Receiving BAföG, unemployment benefit, Gründungszuschuss or Einstiegsgeld
- Already founded before approval: a full-time freelance or trade registration counts as founded; only a switch from side business to main business is allowed
- Residence outside Saxony
- Academic teams with 15%+ R&D spend are excluded (use Technologiegründungsstipendium instead)
- Consulting businesses (Beratungsleistungen) are excluded

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.futuresax.de/gruenden/innostartbonus , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/innovative-unternehmensgruendungen-innostartbonus.html

## ESF Plus Technology Founder Stipend Saxony (ESF Plus Technologiegründungsstipendium (SAB))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/technologiegruenderstipendium-sachsen
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/technologiegruenderstipendien
- Region: Saxony · Type: Stipend · Provider: Freistaat Sachsen (SMWA) / SAB (ESF Plus)
- Amount: Per founder per month: EUR 1,000 (students), EUR 2,500 (graduates), EUR 3,000 (PhD); up to 12 months · Duration: Up to 12 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: no · Full-time required: yes · Company required: no · University link required: yes
- Location condition: Main or secondary residence in Saxony; company seat in Saxony
- Deadline: No fixed deadline; apply any time before founding. Guideline runs until 31 Dec 2030.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Students, graduates, scientific staff or former staff of universities, Berufsakademien or research institutions
- Founding team of up to 3 funded persons with complementary skills; at least one with commercial know-how
- Technical product/process innovation or novel innovative service; R&D at least 15% of operating costs
- Apply via SAB Förderportal before founding; company must be founded within 6 months of funding start

Common blockers:
- No university/research link
- Already founded
- Other paid employment, BAföG, Gründungszuschuss or Einstiegsgeld
- Freelance professions (consultants, designers, artists etc.)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/technologiegruenderstipendien , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/esf-plus-technologiegruendungsstipendium.html

## SMILE Startup Initiative Leipzig (SMILE - Gründungsinitiative der Universität Leipzig)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/smile-leipzig
- Official: https://smile.uni-leipzig.de
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Coaching · Provider: Universität Leipzig (SMILE / SEPT Competence Center)
- Amount: Free start-up coaching, training and funding-application support (EXIST, Technologiegründungsstipendium etc.); no cash itself · Duration: ongoing
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: yes
- Location condition: Leipzig academic institutions (students, graduates, researchers)
- Deadline: Ongoing; contact any time. Events and workshops listed on the SMILE site.
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Students, graduates and researchers of Leipzig academic institutions
- Focus on research-based, knowledge-intensive ventures; also creative, sustainability and social ideas
- Incubation space in Halle 7 (Baumwollspinnerei) since Oct 2026 for funded Uni Leipzig teams

Common blockers:
- No university affiliation (use SpinLab, Social Impact Lab instead)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.wifa.uni-leipzig.de/en/sept-competence-center/smile/start-up-initiative-smile , https://www.l-iz.de/bildung/forschung/2026/10/neues-innovationszentrum-in-der-baumwollspinnerei-smart-infrastructure-hub-leipzig-halle-7-eroffnet-672081

## Smart Infrastructure Hub Leipzig (Halle 7) (Smart Infrastructure Hub Leipzig)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/smart-infrastructure-hub-leipzig
- Official: https://www.spinlab.co/halle-7
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Coaching · Provider: SpinLab GmbH (Halle 7), SMILE / Universität Leipzig, City of Leipzig, HHL
- Amount: Coworking desks and offices at a start-up rate (paid), community, coaching and SpinLab network; SMILE incubation space for funded Uni Leipzig teams; no cash
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: unclear
- Location condition: Leipzig (Baumwollspinnerei, Spinnereistraße 7)
- Deadline: Opened 1 Oct 2026. Space enquiries any time via the SpinLab Halle 7 form; no call or deadline.
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Start-up rate: companies under 10 years old, under 100 staff, under EUR 10M revenue, R&D over 10% or novel products
- SMILE Incubation Space: Uni Leipzig teams before founding, usually already funded (EXIST, Technologiegründungsstipendium)
- Process Living Lab open to start-ups across Saxony (per news report)

Common blockers:
- Office space is paid, not free
- Incubation space tied to funded Uni Leipzig teams

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.spinlab.co/halle-7 , https://www.de-hub.de/en/the-hubs/leipzig/ , https://www.l-iz.de/bildung/forschung/2026/10/neues-innovationszentrum-in-der-baumwollspinnerei-smart-infrastructure-hub-leipzig-halle-7-eroffnet-672081

## SpinLab - The HHL Accelerator (SpinLab - The HHL Accelerator)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/spinlab-accelerator
- Official: https://www.spinlab.co/apply-now
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Accelerator · Provider: SpinLab / HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management
- Amount: EUR 6,000 per startup for living costs (via City of Leipzig); up to EUR 50,000 in total with pitch prizes; no equity · Duration: Up to 5 months (batch Jan-Jun 2027)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: no · Full-time required: no · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Deadline: Application deadline 8 Oct 2026 for the Jan-Jun 2027 batch. Next round not yet announced.
- Application languages: en, de

Eligibility:
- Innovative, tech-oriented, internationally scalable concept (non-digital products allowed)
- Team of 2-4 founders with key skills in place
- At least one founder in Leipzig Tue-Thu
- Business-level German or English
- Apply via F6S with pitch deck (10-15 slides PDF or 7-10 min video)

Common blockers:
- Solo founder without co-founders
- Pure idea with no prototype/users

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.spinlab.co/apply-now , https://spinlab.co , https://spinlab.co/faq

## R42 Games Accelerator (R42 Games Accelerator Leipzig)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/r42-games-accelerator
- Official: https://r42.gg/r42-games-accelerator/
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Accelerator · Provider: R42 Leipzig; co-financed by City of Leipzig, start-up grant from Freistaat Sachsen / SAB
- Amount: Free 9-month program; chance of a EUR 30,000 SAB start-up grant (90% funding, personnel and material costs) for Saxony-based participants · Duration: 9 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Start-up located in Saxony (for the EUR 30,000 grant)
- Deadline: Open call for the 2027 class: apply by 31 Oct 2026 (per R42 announcement of 3 Sep 2026; program page still says 30 Nov).
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Games, serious games, gamification or games-related B2B start-ups; solo or team
- Business registration (Gewerbe) already in place, any legal form
- Form + pitch deck + 12-month financing/liquidity plan
- No participation fee

Common blockers:
- Non-games project
- No Gewerbe registered yet
- Missing financing plan

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://r42.gg/r42-games-accelerator/ , https://r42.gg/2026/09/03/open-call-fuer-die-start-up-klasse-2027-des-r42-games-accelerators/

## Social Impact Lab Leipzig - Founding Support (Social Impact Lab Leipzig - Gründungsberatung & Coaching)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/social-impact-lab-leipzig
- Official: https://leipzig.socialimpactlab.eu
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Coaching · Provider: Social Impact gGmbH
- Amount: Free mentoring, coaching and workshops (online and offline); coworking for early-stage founders; no cash · Duration: ongoing
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Leipzig office (Gottschedstraße 44, visits by appointment)
- Deadline: Ongoing; book advice via leipzig@socialimpact.eu or +49 341 49566660. No stipend call is currently listed.
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Founders with an idea who want to become self-employed; social start-ups in start/founding phase
- Individuals and teams not yet founded welcome
- Refugees and migrants: StartHope@Home coaching track

Common blockers:
- Expecting cash: no stipend is currently offered

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://leipzig.socialimpactlab.eu

## Leipzig SME Program - Founder Grant & Innovative Founder Premium (Mittelstandsförderprogramm 'Wachstum und Kompetenz im Leipziger Mittelstand' (Gründungsförderung / Prämie für innovative Gründer/-innen))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipzig-mittelstandsfoerderprogramm-gruendung
- Official: https://www.leipzig.de/wirtschaft/mittelstand-staerken/mittelstandsfoerderprogramm
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Grant · Provider: Stadt Leipzig, Amt für Wirtschaftsförderung (with IHK / HWK Leipzig)
- Amount: Gründungsförderung: 30% of eligible costs (up to 60% with location bonus), max EUR 5,000 per application/year (EUR 10,000 for high-tech). Separate one-off premium for innovative founders: EUR 4,000
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: yes · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company seat in Leipzig
- Deadline: Rolling, subject to annual city budget (payouts often only after mid-year budget release). Premium: jury meets quarterly (cut-offs 31 Mar, 30 Jun, 30 Sep, 31 Dec), up to 5 firms per quarter; file within 3 months of signing the lease.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Founder/team with business seat in Leipzig, started max. 3 years ago (trade registration or tax number)
- Gründungsförderung only for manufacturing, crafts, or technology- and knowledge-based services
- Full-time (Haupterwerb), profit-oriented business
- Gründungsförderung: positive IHK/HWK opinion on the business plan or a bank start-up loan; funds a first-time step (first hire, first commercial lease, first corporate design, first certification)
- Premium: innovative/creative-innovative founders, first commercial premises in Leipzig, jury decision
- Premium: founding advice completed (IHK, HWK, SMILE, ugb or an accelerator); lease signed max. 3 months before applying
- Apply before project start via city form / Amt24; de minimis aid

Common blockers:
- Transport companies (Verkehrssektor) and the other sectors on the city's exclusion list (Anlage 5 of form 81/021/02.26)
- Side-business (Nebenerwerb)
- Project already started
- Not yet registered in Leipzig
- Excluded sectors (e.g. retail, financial/legal advice, medical practices)
- Not fundable: business plan, standard furniture/IT, used goods, vehicles; rent and staff only for the first 6 months
- Premium: new GbR excluded; no founding advice completed

From the official PDF "Steckbrief zur Maßnahme MP22G04 – Gründungsförderung (Mittelstandsförderprogramm Leipzig)" (https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/MP22G04_Gruender.pdf):
- 30% of eligible costs, up to 60% with location bonus; max EUR 5,000 per year (EUR 10,000 high-tech)
- Only manufacturing, crafts, technology- or knowledge-based services; founded max. 3 years ago
- Needs a positive IHK/HWK opinion on plan and costs, or a bank start-up loan
- Rent and staff costs count only for the first 6 months; no furniture/IT, used goods, vehicles, business plan
- Apply before signing contracts; attach 3-year profitability forecast and de minimis declaration
- Paid in arrears after the proof of use, due within 3 months of the project end

From the official PDF "Steckbrief zur Maßnahme MP20G02 – Prämie für innovative Gründer (Mittelstandsförderprogramm Leipzig)" (https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/MP19G02-Pramie_innovative-Grunder.pdf):
- EUR 4,000 one-off premium; founded max. 3 years ago; new GbR excluded
- First commercial premises in Leipzig; lease signed max. 3 months before applying
- Founding advice must be completed (IHK, HWK, SMILE, ugb or an accelerator)
- Jury cut-offs 31 Mar, 30 Jun, 30 Sep, 31 Dec; up to 5 firms funded per quarter
- Attach business concept, CV, draft lease and proof of founding advice

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.leipzig.de/wirtschaft/mittelstand-staerken/mittelstandsfoerderprogramm , https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/MP22G04_Gruender.pdf , https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/Mittelstands_Foerderprogramm.pdf , https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/MP19G02-Pramie_innovative-Grunder.pdf , https://leipzig.de/buergerservice-und-verwaltung/aemter-und-behoerdengaenge/formulare/formular/praemie-mpf2021/download

## SAB Microloan Saxony (Mikrodarlehen Sachsen (MKD, SAB))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-mikrodarlehen-sachsen
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/mikrodarlehen-mkd-
- Region: Saxony · Type: Loan · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB)
- Amount: EUR 5,000-30,000, up to 80% of eligible costs; currently 2% p.a. nominal; up to 6 years incl. 1 year repayment-free; no collateral · Duration: up to 6 years
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business activity in Saxony
- Deadline: Rolling via SAB Förderportal; no deadline stated.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Founders or young firms within 5-year start-up phase (also succession, restart, >25% stake)
- 20% own contribution (cash or in-kind/own work)
- Apply via SAB Förderportal; do not start before SAB confirmation e-mail

Common blockers:
- Sales agents, car dealers, petrol stations excluded
- Project started before SAB confirmation
- Company in difficulty or insolvency
- Refinancing / start-up consulting not eligible
- Vehicles for road freight transport (Straßengüterverkehr) cannot be financed

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/mikrodarlehen , https://www.sab.sachsen.de/mikrodarlehen-mkd-

## SAB Founding Consulting Subsidy (ESF Plus Gründungsberatung (SAB, FRL GRB))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-gruendungsberatung-esf
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/gr%C3%BCndungsberatungen
- Region: Saxony · Type: Voucher · Provider: SAB / ESF Plus (recommendation by IHK, HWK or LFB Sachsen)
- Amount: Fixed EUR 400 per consulting day (8h), 2-5 days for new start-ups (EUR 800-2,000); succession EUR 500/day up to 10 days · Duration: usually 6 months approval period
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Primary residence in Saxony
- Deadline: Rolling via SAB Förderportal under ESF Plus 2021-2027; no stop notice on SAB page.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Natural person planning to found (incl. freelance) or take over a business
- Business not yet founded and consulting contract not signed before approval
- Consulting recommendation from IHK, HWK or LFB; apply to SAB within 2 months of it
- Founding concept with market analysis and financial plan
- Prior founder training, e.g. at least 15 hours of founding basics within the last 12 months
- Once per 5 years

Common blockers:
- Already self-employed on the side (Nebenerwerb)
- Business already founded
- Consulting/tax/legal/audit start-ups excluded
- Weak concept paper

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/gr%C3%BCndungsberatungen , https://www.ihk.de/chemnitz/starthilfe/beratungsfoerderung/gruendungsberatung-1906802

## Saxony Digitalisation Grant (micro firms) (Digitalisierung Zuschuss EFRE - Heranführungsprojekte (SAB, FRL Digi-Z))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-digitalisierung-efre-heranfuehrung
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/f%C3%B6rderrichtlinie-digitalisierung-zuschuss-efre-2021-bis-2027
- Region: Saxony · Type: Grant · Provider: SAB / Freistaat Sachsen (EFRE)
- Amount: Up to 60% of eligible costs (+10 pts if bound by collective agreement); direct eligible costs capped at EUR 10,000, minimum EUR 5,000 costs; plus 7% flat indirect costs · Duration: max. 12 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: incorporated, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat or relevant site in Saxony; since 17 Jul 2026 only Leipzig city, Landkreis Leipzig, Nordsachsen
- Deadline: Rolling only in the 'more developed region' (Leipzig city, LK Leipzig, Nordsachsen). Application stop since 17 Jul 2026 for the transition region (Dresden, Chemnitz and surrounding districts). Processing delays.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Micro-enterprise (EU definition) or freelancer, commercially active
- First publicly funded digitalisation project; must measurably raise digital maturity
- Eligible: external services, hardware/software incl. SaaS, training (max 20%); no own staff costs
- Apply via SAB Förderportal before project start

Common blockers:
- Not yet operating
- Seat in Dresden/Chemnitz region (application stop since 17 Jul 2026)
- Project started before SAB confirmation
- Building own product is not the target; standard tools don't count

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/f%C3%B6rderrichtlinie-digitalisierung-zuschuss-efre-2021-bis-2027 , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/digitalisierung-zuschuss-efre.html

## Saxon Founders' Prize (Sächsischer Gründerpreis / Staatspreis für Gründen)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/saechsischer-gruenderpreis
- Official: https://www.futuresax.de/gruenden/saechsischer-gruenderpreis
- Region: Saxony · Type: Prize · Provider: SMWA / futureSAX
- Amount: 2026 round: up to EUR 30,000 total split across Newcomer, Start-up and Scale-up winners (2025 round: up to EUR 60,000)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company seat (or planned seat) in Saxony
- Deadline: 2026 round closed (ran 30 Oct 2025-25 Feb 2026; winners announced). 2027 call not yet announced; past rounds opened on 30 Oct (2024, 2025).
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- 2026 categories: Newcomer (founded 2025 or planned by end 2026), Start-up (founded 2021-2024), Scale-up (2016-2020); NextGen special prize
- Online application, German or English
- Judged on customer value/innovation, team, market potential

Common blockers:
- Seat outside Saxony
- Branch not registered in Saxony

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.futuresax.de/gruenden/saechsischer-gruenderpreis , https://www.medienservice.sachsen.de/medien/news/1080830

## Leipzig Artistic-Cultural Stipends (Leipziger Stipendienprogramm (Arbeitsstipendien, Kulturamt der Stadt Leipzig))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipzig-kulturamt-stipendien
- Official: https://www.leipzig.de/service-portal/dienstleistung/kulturfoerderung
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Stipend · Provider: Stadt Leipzig, Kulturamt
- Amount: EUR 8,000-10,000 per multi-month stipend (2026 call; programme volume up to EUR 250,000) · Duration: several months (min. 4 months, within the calendar year, per 2024 guidance)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Residence or main creative base in Leipzig
- Deadline: 2026 call closed (deadline 26 Mar 2026). 2027 call not yet announced; 2027 city culture funding is subject to the next double budget.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Professional freelance artists/cultural practitioners whose art is their main livelihood (visual arts, performing arts, music, literature; transformation stipends for socio-culture etc.)
- Not a student, apprentice or permanently employed (minijobs ok)
- No parallel stipend from other institutions
- Online application: project description (max. 3,000 characters), artist CV (max. 2,000 characters), up to 5 online work samples

Common blockers:
- Not an art/culture project
- Employed or enrolled student
- Another stipend running in the same period
- Late application: no extensions

From the official PDF "Handreichung zur Bewerbung um ein Stipendium (Kulturamt der Stadt Leipzig)" (https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.4_Dez4_Kultur/41_Kulturamt/Kulturentwicklung_und_Kulturfoerderung/Handreichung-Antragsstellung-Arbeitsstipendien-2024_online.pdf):
- Freelance artists with art as main livelihood; residence or main creative base in Leipzig (p. 4)
- EUR 8,000-10,000 per stipend, free use; min. 4 months, ends by 31 Dec of the year (p. 5)
- Excluded: students, apprentices, permanent employees (minijobs allowed) (p. 5)
- Paid as one lump sum at the start; short report due within 3 months after the end (p. 6)
- Submit: project text max. 3,000 characters, CV max. 2,000 characters, up to 5 work-sample links (p. 8)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.leipzig.de/newsarchiv/news/kulturamt-der-stadt-leipzig-schreibt-stipendien-fuer-kuenstlerinnen-und-kuenstler-aus , https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.4_Dez4_Kultur/41_Kulturamt/Kulturentwicklung_und_Kulturfoerderung/Handreichung-Antragsstellung-Arbeitsstipendien-2024_online.pdf , https://www.leipzig.de/newsarchiv/news/foerdermittel-des-kulturamtes-2027-kulturfoerderung-in-herausfordernden-zeiten , https://www.leipzig.de/service-portal/dienstleistung/kulturfoerderung

## WBSO R&D tax credit (self-employed / starter) (WBSO (Wet Bevordering Speur- en Ontwikkelingswerk))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/wbso-nl
- Official: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/wbso
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Tax credit · Provider: RVO / Belastingdienst
- Amount: Self-employed 2026: S&O deduction EUR 15,979 from taxable profit, plus starter extra EUR 7,996 (2027 amounts to be published end of 2026). Employers: payroll-tax reduction 36% of first EUR 391,020 (50% for starters), 16% above; same rates announced for 2027, hourly forfait rises from EUR 29 to EUR 33 · Duration: Calendar-year periods, renewable
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Pays Dutch income/payroll tax; R&D in EU
- Deadline: 2026 applications closed 30 Sep 2026. Apply now for 2027: employers by ~20 Dec 2026 for a 1 Jan 2027 start (2026 pattern; RVO 2027 calendar not yet published), self-employed by 31 Dec 2026 / 1 Jan 2027. Later 2027 applications by the last day of any month, last one 30 Sep 2027.
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- New software, products or processes with technical novelty
- Self-employed (no employees) can apply as S&O-belastingplichtige
- Self-employed: at least 500 S&O hours in the calendar year
- Starter status (extra deduction / 50% rate) for max 3 calendar years
- Applies to future R&D only (apply in advance)
- Pays Dutch income or payroll tax

Common blockers:
- Applying after the period started (benefit only from submission date for self-employed)
- Technical novelty not demonstrated
- No Dutch tax liability
- Self-employed with fewer than 500 S&O hours in the year
- Hours administration not kept per project (update within 10 working days)

From the official PDF "Handleiding WBSO 2026" (https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/2026-02/Handleiding%20WBSO%202026_v2.pdf):
- 2026 self-employed: S&O deduction EUR 15,979, plus EUR 7,996 extra for starters (p. 2)
- Self-employed must spend at least 500 hours on S&O in the calendar year (p. 6)
- Employers: 36% on first EUR 391,020 of wage costs (starters 50%), 16% above; starter max 3 years (p. 6)
- Each application covers at least 3 and at most 12 months (p. 11)
- Employers: max 4 applications a year, by the last day of the month before the period starts (p. 13)
- Keep an hours record per project and update it within 10 working days (p. 18)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/wbso , https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/wbso/kalender , https://www.rvo.nl/nieuws/wbso-2027-wijzigingen , https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/2026-02/Handleiding%20WBSO%202026_v2.pdf

## Early Phase Financing (VFF) - RVO (Vroegefasefinanciering (VFF))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/vff-rvo
- Official: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/vroegefasefinanciering
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Loan · Provider: RVO
- Amount: Interest-bearing loan EUR 50,000-450,000: innovative starters up to EUR 450,000 (100% of costs), small SMEs up to EUR 202,500 (45%), medium SMEs up to EUR 157,500 (35%); interest 7.71% from 1 Sep 2026; repayment starts after 3-5 years · Duration: Project-based
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Dutch company; in Friesland, Limburg, Noord-Brabant, Noord-Holland, Utrecht, Zeeland and Zuid-Holland apply via the regional fund instead
- Deadline: Open 1 Jan - 31 Dec 2026 23:59 while budget lasts, first-come; lottery if budget runs out on one day. Academic starter window (1 Jul - 1 Sep 2026) closed. 2027 round not yet announced.
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Innovative starter up to 5 years old, SME, or academic/hbo/TO2 starter (via NWO)
- Technological innovation
- Proof-of-principle already reached
- Loan pays for reaching proof-of-concept
- Follow-on investor willing to invest afterwards

Common blockers:
- No committed follow-on investor
- Not technological innovation
- Small national budget (EUR 3M) - first-come, lottery if oversubscribed on one day
- Company in a province with its own regional VFF counter

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/vroegefasefinanciering , https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/vroegefasefinanciering/voorwaarden

## Innovation Credit (Innovatiekrediet)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/innovatiekrediet-rvo
- Official: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/innovatiekrediet
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Loan · Provider: RVO
- Amount: Up to 45% of project costs for small firms (35% medium, 25% large; SMEs 50% with collaboration); max EUR 10M technical / EUR 5M clinical; at least 55% from other financing. 3% fixed compound interest plus a one-off 15% (technical) / 25% (clinical) surcharge; repaid after the project from commercial results · Duration: Project-based (market-ready within 5 years)
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Dutch company
- Deadline: Open 1 Jan - 31 Dec 2026; EUR 50M total budget. 2027 round not yet announced.
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Innovative project with high technical/clinical risk
- Market-ready within 5 years
- Other financing for at least 55%
- Financing of project and company fully secured for the whole project before the credit is granted
- SMEs and large companies; free Quick Scan recommended

Common blockers:
- Too early or too small to raise 55% co-financing
- Risk not technical enough
- Co-financing not yet backed by term sheets or letters of intent

From the official PDF "Handleiding voor het schrijven van een aanvraag Innovatiekrediet" (https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/2026-02/Handleiding%20voor%20aanvraag%20Innovatiekrediet.pdf):
- Application = 1-page summary, business plan, project plan and financing plan (p. 4)
- Project budget must use RVO's mandatory Excel format (p. 17)
- Credit granted only when the rest of the financing is fully secured; show term sheets or letters of intent (p. 18)
- Uncertain sales revenue counted as financing requires a shareholder guarantee (p. 18)
- Repayment normally starts within 6 months after the project; one-off surcharge 15% technical / 25% clinical (p. 20)
- No interest, loan repayments or dividends to shareholders until the credit is fully repaid (p. 20)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/innovatiekrediet , https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/innovatiekrediet/voorwaarden , https://www.rvo.nl/sites/default/files/2026-02/Handleiding%20voor%20aanvraag%20Innovatiekrediet.pdf

## MIT Feasibility Projects - Noord-Holland (MIT Haalbaarheidsprojecten Noord-Holland)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/mit-haalbaarheid-nh
- Official: https://www.noord-holland.nl/Producten_op_alfabet/MKB_innovatiestimulering_topsectoren_MIT_Noord_Holland_Haalbaarheidsproject_subsidie
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Grant · Provider: Provincie Noord-Holland (with RVO/Rijk funding)
- Amount: 35% of eligible costs, max EUR 20,000; 2026 budget EUR 2,570,400 · Duration: Short feasibility project
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: SME with a branch in Noord-Holland where most activity takes place
- Deadline: Closed: 2026 window 7 Apr - 15 Sep 2026 17:00 has ended (oversubscribed on day one, lottery). 2027 round not yet announced.
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- SME with a branch in Noord-Holland (most activity incl. the project there)
- Feasibility study for a new product, process, service or technology with technical and financial risk
- Fits mission-driven top-sector and innovation policy
- Project not started before applying (signed quotes or contracts count as a start)
- One application per SME (incl. affiliated companies) per round

Common blockers:
- Missing the single annual window
- Oversubscribed on opening day (2026 went to lottery)
- Outside Noord-Holland
- Own hours capped at EUR 60/hour; third-party costs need quotes
- No recent annual report or bank statement to show own contribution

From the official PDF "Uitvoeringsregeling MKB innovatiestimulering topsectoren haalbaarheidsprojecten Noord-Holland 2026 (MIT) - toelichting (Provinciaal Blad 2026, 3072)" (https://www.noord-holland.nl/productfiles/34c97407-8397-4f89-8d55-ac109c43fb6c.pdf):
- SME must be registered in Noord-Holland, do most of its business there and run the project there (p. 3)
- Handled by day of receipt; if day one is oversubscribed, a lottery decides (p. 4)
- Innovation, economic outlook, feasibility and mission impact each need at least 3 of 5 points (p. 4)
- Project must not start before applying; signing a quote or contract counts as a start (p. 6)
- One application per SME per round, including partner and affiliated companies (p. 6)
- Own staff and hired staff count at max EUR 60/hour; other third-party costs need a quote (p. 7)

From the official PDF "Informatie te verstrekken in subsidieportaal" (https://www.noord-holland.nl/productfiles/7c4da5ca-55b1-48e9-a6be-37db14bd2c07.pdf):
- Attach: application form, budget/planning in the set format, KvK extract, SME and de minimis declarations
- Also needed: adopted annual report no older than 1 year and a recent bank statement
- Quotes required for third-party and other costs; project summary max 150 words

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.noord-holland.nl/Producten_op_alfabet/MKB_innovatiestimulering_topsectoren_MIT_Noord_Holland_Haalbaarheidsproject_subsidie , https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/mit , https://www.noord-holland.nl/productfiles/34c97407-8397-4f89-8d55-ac109c43fb6c.pdf , https://www.noord-holland.nl/productfiles/7c4da5ca-55b1-48e9-a6be-37db14bd2c07.pdf

## MIT R&D Collaboration Projects (MIT R&D-samenwerkingsprojecten)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/mit-rd-samenwerking
- Official: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/mit/rd-samenwerkingsprojecten
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Grant · Provider: RVO / provinces
- Amount: 35% of eligible costs; small projects EUR 50,000-200,000, large projects EUR 200,000-350,000 per project (EUR 25,000-175,000 per participant) · Duration: Max 2 years
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: no · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Dutch SMEs; consortium of 2+ SMEs
- Deadline: Closed: 2026 window 9 Jun - 15 Sep 2026 17:00 has ended; RVO shows 'temporarily closed'. 2027 dates not yet announced.
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- At least 2 SMEs carry out the R&D project together
- No participant bears more than 70% of costs
- Top-sector / mission alignment

Common blockers:
- Needs SME partner(s)
- Complex application
- Single annual window

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/mit/rd-samenwerkingsprojecten , https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/mit

## Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland - VFF fund (Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland Vroege Fase Financiering (VFF-NH II))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/innovatiefonds-nh-vff
- Official: https://www.innovatiefondsnoordholland.nl
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Loan · Provider: Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland (Province NH, Ministry EZ via RVO, EU)
- Amount: Loan EUR 50,000-450,000 depending on company category (reported as convertible); fund about EUR 5M, half Rijk via RVO, half province
- Equity: convertible · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Company active in Noord-Holland
- Deadline: Open since 17 Mar 2026; loans can be granted until 31 Dec 2029 or until the fund is used up
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Innovative starter up to 5 years old, or SME
- Active in Noord-Holland (Amsterdam qualifies)
- Developing and validating an innovative product or service
- No fisheries/aquaculture

Common blockers:
- Follow-on investor requirement (as national VFF)
- Outside Noord-Holland
- Convertible = possible future dilution

From the official PDF "Verlenen subsidie Vroege Fase Financiering Noord-Holland II (VFF-NH II) - Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland B.V." (https://www.noord-holland.nl/bestanden/pdf/Loket/Subsidieverlening%20Innovatiefonds%20Noord-Holland%20B.V..pdf):
- Fund EUR 5M: EUR 2.5M from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, EUR 2.5M from the province (2026-2028) (p. 1)
- For SMEs and innovative starters founded no more than 5 years ago, active in Noord-Holland (p. 2)
- Loan lets the company prove its proposition so investors come on board; fisheries/aquaculture excluded (p. 2)
- Loans of EUR 50,000-450,000 depending on company category (p. 3)
- Loans can be granted from 1 Jan 2026 until 31 Dec 2029 (p. 3)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.noord-holland.nl/bestanden/pdf/Loket/Subsidieverlening%20Innovatiefonds%20Noord-Holland%20B.V..pdf , https://www.rvo.nl/subsidies-financiering/vroegefasefinanciering , https://www.ixa.nl/news/new-incentive-fund-for-young-companies-in-north-holland/

## Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland - PoC2 fund (Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland Proof of Concept 2 (PoC2))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/innovatiefonds-nh-poc2
- Official: https://www.innovatiefondsnoordholland.nl
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Loan · Provider: Innovatiefonds Noord-Holland (Province NH, UvA, VU, HvA, Amsterdam UMC, Sanquin, EU)
- Amount: Convertible loans from a EUR 14M+ fund (ERDF Opportunities for West 3); loan size set per project (the first round averaged about EUR 275k)
- Equity: convertible · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: yes
- Location condition: Noord-Holland
- Deadline: Open-ended applications since 2023; ask the fund whether it is still taking new projects
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Link to a partner knowledge institution (UvA, VU, HvA, Amsterdam UMC, Sanquin)
- Proof-of-concept phase
- Startup or SME in Noord-Holland

Common blockers:
- No institutional link
- Needs incorporation

Verified 2026-10-06 (confidence: low). Sources: https://siliconcanals.com/innovation-fund-north-holland-launches-poc2/ , https://www.telecompaper.com/news/fonds-biedt-startups-in-noord-holland-subsidie-voor-proof-of-conceptfase--1251931

## Rabobank Start and Development Contribution (Noord-Holland Noord) (Start- en Ontwikkelbijdrage Noord-Holland Noord (Rabobank Innovatiefonds))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/rabo-start-ontwikkelbijdrage
- Official: https://metip.nl/rabobank-innovatiefonds/
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Grant · Provider: Rabobank with Investa, Metip, Energy & Health Campus
- Amount: EUR 2,500-10,000 non-repayable contribution; most awards EUR 2,500-5,000, above EUR 5,000 only with clear scale-up potential · Duration: Up to 6 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Initiative relevant to Noord-Holland Noord (north of Amsterdam: Alkmaar, Den Helder, Hoorn areas)
- Deadline: Launched 8 Sep 2026; open, no closing date or rounds listed; decision in 4-6 weeks
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Startups, young companies and SMEs with an innovative product, service or process (indicative TRL 2-6)
- Relevant to Noord-Holland Noord
- Domains: energy and food transition, maritime/offshore, circular economy, supporting digitalisation
- Must bank with Rabobank (onboarding possible); KvK number asked on the form

Common blockers:
- Amsterdam-only activity is outside Noord-Holland Noord
- Outside the focus domains
- Not a Rabobank client

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://metip.nl/rabobank-innovatiefonds/ , https://www.rabobank.nl/lokale-bank/nieuws/011166779/start-en-ontwikkelbijdrage-gelanceerd-voor-innovatieve-ondernemers-in-noord-holland-noord

## Rabo Innovation Loan (Rabo Innovatielening)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/rabo-innovatielening
- Official: https://www.rabobank.nl/bedrijven/zakelijk-financieren/financieringen/rabo-innovatielening
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Loan · Provider: Rabobank
- Amount: EUR 25,000-200,000 as two equal subordinated loans; 10% fixed interest, 7-year term, no collateral or arrangement fee · Duration: 7-year loan term
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: no · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Existing Dutch B.V., established and active in the Netherlands
- Deadline: Ongoing; regional committee meets monthly; annual budget, first come first served
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Existing B.V. (not in formation), based and active in the Netherlands
- Innovation not yet on the market; no structural revenue or paying customers yet (pilot/PoC income allowed)
- Team of several founders, visible in the cap table
- Contributes to digitalisation, sustainability or vitality
- No earlier business financing from a professional financier
- Business account at Rabobank before payout

Common blockers:
- Solo founders not eligible
- Needs an existing B.V.
- Annual budget is first come, first served
- 10% interest

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.rabobank.nl/bedrijven/zakelijk-financieren/financieringen/rabo-innovatielening , https://www.rabobank.nl/en/business/startups-and-scale-ups/articles/011532615-rabo-innovation-loan-stimulates-growth-innovation-and-impact-of-dutch-startups

## Startup in Residence Amsterdam (Startup in Residence Amsterdam)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/startup-in-residence-amsterdam
- Official: https://startupinresidence.com/amsterdam/
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Accelerator · Provider: City of Amsterdam / Metropolitan Region Amsterdam
- Amount: Training, coaches, workspace, city network and a chance to test with the City as launching customer; no cash amount published · Duration: 6 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Deadline: No open challenges; last call (Open Events) ran 15 Jan - 29 Feb 2024; next call not announced
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Dutch and international startups and scale-ups
- Solution to a posted city challenge, or a product to test at an open event

Common blockers:
- Must fit the posted city challenges
- Open calls only occasionally

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://startupinresidence.com/amsterdam/ , https://www.iamsterdam.com/bedrijven-in-amsterdam/startup-amsterdam/initiatieven-gestart-en-ondersteund-door-startupamsterdam

## ACE Incubator (Amsterdam Center for Entrepreneurship) (ACE Incubator)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/ace-incubator
- Official: https://www.ace-incubator.com
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Accelerator · Provider: UvA, VU, HvA, Amsterdam UMC (Amsterdam Science Park)
- Amount: No cash; training, mentoring and 2 years of follow-up support. No equity; 2% of revenue for 5 years, only in years with revenue of EUR 250k+ · Duration: 10-week programme, twice a year (spring and autumn), plus 2 years of support
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: yes
- Location condition: Amsterdam
- Deadline: Spring (May-June) and autumn (Nov-Jan) cohorts; 2026/27 application dates not found
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- MSc students, graduates, researchers and academics
- Early-stage tech or science startups

Common blockers:
- No university link
- Revenue share once revenue reaches EUR 250k/yr

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: low). Sources: https://cdn.uva.nl/1/5/1537/45/kc2KA5fdrwYwPNIEqAjlFmI-cbkcH3fH2fqsGzfMoLoit_r56IB81_M5RnxiNvXEz6a_mhr05M0NRNn-A81ajmUulG_zAF5nutPwheN0lfxaYuVe__Ec2ArxT8TW-_APMOIBDSd_GAtoDyiJfEvePeDUprB-4Vrpgg , https://www.amsterdamsciencepark.nl/event/ace-incubation-program-2024-spring-24/

## Amsterdam Circular (circulator) (Amsterdam Circular)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/amsterdam-circular
- Official: https://ams-institute.org/entrepreneurship/amsterdam-circular/
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Accelerator · Provider: City of Amsterdam and AMS Institute
- Amount: Cost-free, equity-free chain-financing programme; funding comes via chain partners and public/private co-financiers · Duration: 3 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Amsterdam Metropolitan Area focus
- Deadline: Applications closed; batch #5 (circular consumer products) starting; next call not announced
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Early-stage circular startups that need funding
- Batch theme (batch #5: circular consumer products)
- Willing to experiment and share learnings

Common blockers:
- Theme mismatch
- Applications only between batches

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://ams-institute.org/entrepreneurship/amsterdam-circular/ , https://www.iamsterdam.com/bedrijven-in-amsterdam/startup-amsterdam/initiatieven-gestart-en-ondersteund-door-startupamsterdam

## Boost je Buurt (Amsterdam Impact) (Boost je Buurt 2026)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/boost-je-buurt
- Official: https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/business/amsterdam-impact/how-we-can-help/grow-your-impact-enterprise/boost-je-buurt-2026
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Prize · Provider: Amsterdam Impact with Impact Hub Amsterdam and Starters
- Amount: Jury and public prizes EUR 2,500 / 5,000 / 7,500; programme place worth EUR 25,000 · Duration: 3 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Amsterdam, KvK registration (or soon)
- Deadline: 2026 registration closed 17 Feb 2026; 2027 edition not announced
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Impact enterprise in Amsterdam, or planning to start one
- Registered (or soon) with the Chamber of Commerce in Amsterdam
- Enterprises older than 3 years apply with a related project
- At least 50% of income from sales; operates independently
- Social impact at core; supports an inclusive, healthy or sustainable neighbourhood

Common blockers:
- Neighbourhood impact required
- Annual window

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.iamsterdam.com/en/business/amsterdam-impact/how-we-can-help/grow-your-impact-enterprise/boost-je-buurt-2026

## Rockstart accelerator (Rockstart)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/rockstart-amsterdam
- Official: https://rockstart.com/
- Region: Amsterdam · Type: Accelerator · Provider: Rockstart
- Amount: Investment from pre-seed, co-investments up to Series B; ticket size not published
- Equity: equity · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Deadline: Applications accepted year-round via 'Get started' form
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Early-stage startups in AgriFood, Energy or Emerging Tech
- Purpose-driven founders

Common blockers:
- Equity investment (dilution)
- Competitive
- Sector focus

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://rockstart.com/ , https://rockstart.com/emerging-tech/ , https://rockstart.com/energy/ , https://rockstart.com/agrifood/

## Dutch Start-up Residence Permit (Verblijfsvergunning Startup (start-up visa))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/nl-startup-visa
- Official: https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/work/start-up
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Benefit-linked support · Provider: IND / RVO
- Amount: Not funding: 1-year permit, application fee EUR 423 (2026) · Duration: Up to 1 year, not extendable; then self-employed permit
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Non-EU founders only
- Deadline: Apply any time
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss founder with an active role in the company
- Signed contract with an RVO-listed facilitator (mentor); founder and facilitator registered at KvK
- Innovative product or service (new to the Netherlands)
- Facilitator may not hold a majority interest in the start-up
- Step-by-step plan (your role, first-year steps, why it is innovative), assessed by RVO
- Enough funds for one year (Dutch bank statement) or facilitator finances the stay

Common blockers:
- No qualified facilitator
- Not innovative enough
- Insufficient funds

From the official PDF "Application for the purpose of residence 'Start-up' working on a self-employed basis (foreign national), form 7558" (https://ind.nl/en/forms/7558.pdf):
- Enclose a signed facilitator agreement; the facilitator may not hold a majority interest (p. 3)
- Step-by-step plan must cover your active role, first-year steps and why the product is innovative (p. 3)
- Proof of funds: Dutch bank statement, or contract showing the facilitator or a financier pays (p. 3)
- Copy of all passport pages with stamps; KvK numbers of you and the facilitator; TB test form unless exempt

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://ind.nl/en/residence-permits/work/start-up , https://ind.nl/en/fees-costs-of-an-application , https://ind.nl/en/forms/7558.pdf

## Creative Industries Fund NL - Digital Culture Grant Scheme (Stimuleringsfonds Creatieve Industrie - Regeling Digitale cultuur 2025-2028)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sci-digital-culture
- Official: https://www.stimuleringsfonds.nl/en/grants/digital-culture-grant-scheme
- Region: Netherlands · Type: Grant · Provider: Stimuleringsfonds Creatieve Industrie
- Amount: EUR 10,000-25,000 (single applicant) or up to EUR 50,000 with project partners; 20% co-financing required; EUR 650,000 per grant period · Duration: Max 24 months; must start within 6 months of the decision
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Dutch KvK registration
- Deadline: Closed; last 2026 window closed 19 Aug 2026; 2027 windows not yet published
- Application languages: nl, en

Eligibility:
- Makers, observers, design agencies and cultural institutions in digital culture
- Artistic, research-led projects (media art, games, XR, AI, creative coding)
- Listed in the Dutch KvK business register (extract max 1 year old); one application per grant period, one grant per calendar year
- Project must be primarily non-profit; company set-up, market exploration and regular business activities are not funded
- At least 20% co-financing (own contribution does not count)

Common blockers:
- Purely commercial startups usually rejected
- Oversubscribed windows: a draw decides the order of assessment
- Short submission windows
- Co-financing needed

From the official PDF "Digital Culture Grant Scheme 2025-2028" (https://cms.stimuleringsfonds.nl/storage/media/SCI_Digital-Culture-Grant-Scheme-2025-2028.pdf):
- EUR 10,000-25,000 for a single applicant; up to EUR 50,000 with project partners (p. 3)
- Projects must be primarily non-profit (p. 3)
- If a window is oversubscribed, a draw sets the order in which applications are assessed (p. 4)
- Applicant must be listed in the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (KvK) business register (p. 5)
- Max 24 months; start within 6 months of decision; one grant per calendar year (p. 6)
- Not funded: company set-up costs, market exploration, commercial feasibility studies, regular business (p. 7)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.stimuleringsfonds.nl/en/grants/digital-culture-grant-scheme , https://www.stimuleringsfonds.nl/subsidies/regeling-digitale-cultuur , https://www.stimuleringsfonds.nl/en/programmes/digital-culture , https://cms.stimuleringsfonds.nl/storage/media/SCI_Digital-Culture-Grant-Scheme-2025-2028.pdf

## NLnet Restack Fund (NLnet Restack Fund)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/nlnet-restack
- Official: https://nlnet.nl/restack/
- Region: European Union · Type: Grant · Provider: NLnet Foundation (EU DG CONNECT / Horizon Europe)
- Amount: €5,000–50,000 for a first grant; can scale up for proven potential; plus in-kind security audits/standardisation help. €7M total to 2030.
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Strong European dimension expected (applicants mostly from Horizon Europe-eligible countries)
- Deadline: Call opened 3 Sep 2026; deadline 3 Nov 2026 12:00 CET. NLnet runs deadlines on the 3rd of every odd month, so next likely 3 Jan 2027.
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Individuals explicitly allowed as applicants (also SMEs, NGOs, etc.)
- Concrete contribution to an Open Internet Stack (infra, open alternatives to closed services, secure devices)
- All results under a recognised FOSS licence
- AI projects out of scope unless >1M active users and directly relevant

Common blockers:
- Output must be open source — not for proprietary SaaS core
- NLnet rejects AI-generated proposals
- Paid per milestone, not upfront

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://nlnet.nl/restack/ , https://nlnet.nl/propose/ , https://nlnet.nl/funding.html

## NLnet CodeSupply Fund (NLnet CodeSupply Fund (Pilot))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/nlnet-codesupply
- Official: https://nlnet.nl/codesupply/
- Region: European Union · Type: Grant · Provider: NLnet Foundation (EU DG CONNECT / Horizon Europe)
- Amount: €5,000–50,000 per proposal; €400k reserved for open calls
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: European dimension expected
- Deadline: First call 3 Sep – 3 Nov 2026 12:00 CET
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Same applicant rules as NLnet (individuals allowed)
- Work on software metadata, SBOM/licence-compliance data, open datasets, FOSS tool integrations
- FOSS licence for all results

Common blockers:
- Narrow scope: supply-chain/metadata tooling only
- Small total pot (€400k)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://nlnet.nl/codesupply/ , https://nlnet.nl/propose/

## German R&D tax credit (Steuerliche Forschungszulage)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/forschungszulage
- Official: https://www.bescheinigung-forschungszulage.de/
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Tax credit · Provider: BMF / Bescheinigungsstelle Forschungszulage (BSFZ) + Finanzamt
- Amount: 35% for KMU (25% general) of eligible R&D costs. Owner's own R&D work in a sole proprietorship counts at €100/hour (from 2026, was €70), max 40 h/week. For projects started from 2026 a 20% overhead flat rate is added; the annual cap is €12M. Paid as a tax credit; refunded even with no tax owed.
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Taxable in Germany
- Deadline: No deadline; certificate any time, up to 4 years retroactive
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Every taxpayer with business income (any size/legal form, incl. Einzelunternehmer) has a legal claim
- Project must qualify as R&D (BSFZ certificate): new, with technical risk, planned
- BSFZ description in German only, max 4,000 characters, plus a mandatory tabular work plan
- Certificate possible for planned, ongoing or finished projects (work started after 1 Jan 2020)
- Can apply up to 4 years retroactively; no fixed deadline

Common blockers:
- Routine software work isn't R&D: configuring or porting existing software, testing, debugging, docs. You must show technical risk; GDPR concerns don't count
- Market research and feasibility studies are not R&D
- Needs an ELSTER organisation certificate
- Must document hours carefully

From the official PDF "Arbeitshilfe zum Antrag auf Erteilung einer Bescheinigung nach § 6 Forschungszulagengesetz (Leitfaden zur Antragstellung)" (https://www.bescheinigung-forschungszulage.de/dateien/PDF/Leitfaden_zur_Antragstellung.pdf):
- Project description: max 4,000 characters in total (p. 2)
- Certificate can be requested for planned, ongoing or completed projects (p. 4)
- All texts must be in German (p. 8)
- A work plan is mandatory for every project (p. 10)
- Own work counts at EUR 100 per hour from 2026, max 40 hours per week per person (p. 22)
- Projects started from 2026: overhead and material costs as a 20% flat rate (p. 23)

From the official PDF "Wie prüft die BSFZ? (Prüfleitfaden)" (https://www.bescheinigung-forschungszulage.de/dateien/PDF/Pruefleitfaden_BSFZ.pdf):
- Three tests: novelty vs. state of the art, technical risk, planned and defined project (p. 4)
- Market research and customer surveys before the project are not R&D (p. 10)
- Not R&D on its own: configuring or porting existing software, routine dev, testing, debugging (p. 18)
- Data protection (GDPR) concerns do not count as technical risk (p. 18)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.bescheinigung-forschungszulage.de/ , https://www.ihk.de/dresden/servicenavigation/presse-publikationen/meldungen/steuerliche-forschungszulage-6928962 , https://www.ihk.de/rhein-neckar/innovation/innovationsberatung/foerdermittel/forschungszulage-4645738 , https://www.bescheinigung-forschungszulage.de/dateien/PDF/Leitfaden_zur_Antragstellung.pdf , https://www.bescheinigung-forschungszulage.de/dateien/PDF/Pruefleitfaden_BSFZ.pdf

## BAFA consulting subsidy (Förderung von Unternehmensberatungen für KMU (BAFA))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/bafa-unternehmensberatung
- Official: https://www.bafa.de/DE/Wirtschaft/Beratung_Finanzierung/Unternehmensberatung/unternehmensberatung_node.html
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Voucher · Provider: BAFA (ESF Plus)
- Amount: Assessment base €3,500 per consultation. Leipzig region and Berlin: 50% = max €1,750. Other eastern German regions: 80% = max €2,800. Up to 5 consultations in total until end of 2026, max 2 per year.
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business seat in Germany
- Deadline: Current guideline runs until 31 Dec 2026; apply before then. A follow-up programme has not been announced yet.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- KMU incl. sole proprietors and freelancers
- Young firms (< 1 year on market) need a free info talk with a regional contact first (≤3 months before applying)
- Apply online before signing the consultant contract

Common blockers:
- Leipzig region counts as 'western' rate (50%) — less than founders expect
- Consultant must be independent; you pre-pay

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.bafa.de/DE/Wirtschaft/Beratung_Finanzierung/Unternehmensberatung/unternehmensberatung_node.html , https://www.ihk.de/blueprint/servlet/resource/blob/3644914/ac21fc60d8d451f81d5fe5064852882f/ihk-merkblatt-foerderung-von-unternehmensberatung-fuer-kmu-data.pdf

## Leipzig trade fair grant (Erschließung neuer Märkte – Messeförderung (Mittelstandsförderprogramm Stadt Leipzig))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipzig-messefoerderung
- Official: https://www.leipzig.de/wirtschaft/mittelstand-staerken/mittelstandsfoerderprogramm
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Grant · Provider: Stadt Leipzig, Amt für Wirtschaftsförderung
- Amount: 50% of stand, travel and fair-marketing costs. Caps: €1,500 (German fair), €2,000 (foreign fair), €750 (German conference), €1,000 (foreign conference/delegation trip). Up to 3 grants per year.
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat or branch in Leipzig
- Deadline: Year-round, ≥4 weeks before the event, subject to budget. Proof of use due within 3 months after the event period; paid in arrears.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- KMU in Leipzig; normally needs ≥1 FTE besides owners, but young firms (full-time founding ≤3 years) are exempt
- Exhibitor or active participation (conferences, symposia, delegation trips count)
- Same event fundable max 3 times
- Not if SAB/federal fair funding is used for the same event

Common blockers:
- Transport companies (Verkehrssektor) and the other sectors on the city's exclusion list (Anlage 5 of form 81/021/02.26)
- Apply ≥4 weeks before the event
- City budget can run out before year-end
- Event also eligible for SAB/federal fair funding
- Older firm with no employee besides the owners

From the official PDF "Steckbrief zur Maßnahme MP20B04 – Erschließung neuer Märkte (Messeförderung), Mittelstandsförderprogramm Leipzig" (https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/MP19B04-Erschlie-ung-neuer-Markte_Messeforderung.pdf):
- 50% of costs; caps EUR 1,500 German fair, EUR 2,000 foreign fair, EUR 750/1,000 conferences
- Eligible: stand rent/fees, travel and hotel, fair marketing; car at max EUR 0.30/km
- Needs ≥1 FTE besides owners, unless founded max. 3 years ago
- Apply ≥4 weeks before the event; same event max. 3 times; max. 3 grants per year
- Not for fairs fundable via SAB or federal/state programmes

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: low). Sources: https://www.leipzig.de/wirtschaft/mittelstand-staerken/mittelstandsfoerderprogramm , https://static.leipzig.de/fileadmin/mediendatenbank/leipzig-de/Stadt/02.8_Dez8_Wirtschaft_Arbeit_Digitales/80_Amt_fuer_Wirtschaftsfoerderung/1_Unternehmensservice/Mittelstandsfoerderprogramm/MP19B04-Erschlie-ung-neuer-Markte_Messeforderung.pdf

## Saxony Business Angel Bonus (Business-Angel-Bonus (JTF 2021–2027))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-business-angel-bonus
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/f%C3%B6rderrichtlinie-business-angel-bonus-jtf-2021-2027
- Region: Saxony · Type: Grant · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB), Just Transition Fund
- Amount: Grant of 50% of eligible costs (personnel incl. managing-director salary, material, investments), capped at the angel's investment and €400,000
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat in Stadt Leipzig, Landkreis Leipzig, Nordsachsen, Bautzen, Görlitz or Chemnitz (JTF regions)
- Deadline: Apply within 2 months of signing the angel agreement; no fixed call dates. 2026 budget status not stated.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Small innovative company, in the commercial register ≤5 years
- Each counted angel invests ≥€50,000 fresh equity
- Participation agreement signed ≤2 months before application
- Must contribute to ecological/social sustainability

Common blockers:
- Needs incorporation (HR entry) and an angel ticket ≥€50k
- If profits are distributed within 5 years, 50% must be repaid (from €2,500, capped at the grant)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/f%C3%B6rderrichtlinie-business-angel-bonus-jtf-2021-2027 , https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/startups

## Saxony market-launch loan (Markteinführungsdarlehen (MEP-D))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-markteinfuehrungsdarlehen
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/markteinf%C3%BChrungsdarlehen-mep-d-1
- Region: Saxony · Type: Loan · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB)
- Amount: €30k–500k; up to 100% of costs for young small firms (≤5 years, <50 staff), up to 80% for others; 1.5% p.a. (JTF regions incl. Leipzig) or 2.5%; up to 8 years, 2 years repayment-free; no collateral; can be subordinated for young small firms
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: yes
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat/branch in Saxony
- Deadline: No fixed deadlines; apply before project start via Förderportal. Merkblatt dated Sep 2026.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Commercial KMU and Freiberufler
- Product based on innovative idea or own R&D
- Software: release candidate required at application
- Market launch ≤6 months ago if loan only
- Combinable with the SAB Markteinführungszuschuss if both are filed before project start

Common blockers:
- Repayable
- Development costs not covered
- Management-level salaries not eligible
- Signing a project contract before applying counts as an early start and leads to rejection

From the official PDF "Programmmerkblatt Markteinführungsdarlehen (Darlehen für den Mittelstand)" (https://www.sab.sachsen.de/documents/d/guest/merkblatt_markteinfuhrungsdarlehen-2?download=true):
- EUR 30,000–500,000 per project; up to 8 years, up to 2 years repayment-free; no collateral
- 100% financing only for young small firms: ≤5 years old, <50 staff; others max 80%, 20% own funds
- If you take only the loan, market launch may be at most 6 months in the past
- Can be combined with the Markteinführungszuschuss grant if both are filed before project start
- Management-level salaries (incl. assistants) are not eligible costs

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/markteinf%C3%BChrungsdarlehen-mep-d-1 , https://www.sab.sachsen.de/documents/d/guest/merkblatt_markteinfuhrungsdarlehen-2?download=true

## Saxony digitalisation loan (Digitalisierungsdarlehen (Digi-D))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-digitalisierungsdarlehen
- Official: https://sab.sachsen.de/en/digitalisierungsdarlehen-digi-d-
- Region: Saxony · Type: Loan · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB)
- Amount: €30k–250k; up to 100% for young small firms; 1.5% (JTF) / 2.5% p.a.; up to 6 years, 1 year repayment-free; no collateral
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: yes
- Stages: revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat/branch in Saxony
- Deadline: Apply before project start; 2026 status not stated
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- KMU, Freiberufler, young companies
- External services, hardware and software for digitalising processes/business models
- Combinable with the SAB Digitalisierung grant

Common blockers:
- Own personnel costs not eligible
- Digitalisation during the founding phase itself is not eligible (FAQ)
- Repayable

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://sab.sachsen.de/en/digitalisierungsdarlehen-digi-d- , https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/startups

## Saxony InnoPrämie (InnoPrämie (EFRE/JTF-Technologieförderung))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-innopraemie
- Official: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/efre-jtf-technologiefoerderung-innopraemie.html
- Region: Saxony · Type: Voucher · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB) / SMWA
- Amount: 50% of external R&D/design/testing services, max €40,000 per calendar year (up to 2 per year); ≤6 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business location in Saxony
- Deadline: Any time before project start; guideline valid until 31 Dec 2030
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- KMU of commercial economy, creative industries, freelance engineers
- Providers: universities, institutes or private firms (domestic or foreign)
- Feasibility/market studies, design, testing, certification prep

Common blockers:
- Only external services; own work not funded
- Providers can't be related persons

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/efre-jtf-technologiefoerderung-innopraemie.html

## Saxony R&D project grant (EFRE/JTF-Technologieförderung – FuE-Projektförderung (Einzelprojekte))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-fue-projektfoerderung
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/efre/jtf-forschung-und-entwicklung-projektf%C3%B6rderung-fue-projektf%C3%B6rderung-2021-bis-2027
- Region: Saxony · Type: Grant · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB) / SMWA
- Amount: Small firms, single project: 40% (experimental development) / 50% in Leipzig, 60% in Chemnitz/Dresden (industrial research) of eligible costs; +5 points on development for 'significant' projects (e.g. firm ≤5 years old); no general cap
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business site in Saxony; project carried out in Saxony
- Deadline: Project outlines any time; special calls may set fixed dates
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- KMU of commercial economy
- Novel result + exploitation plan
- Up to 36 months
- Two steps: project idea with outline (Projektskizze) in the SAB portal, then full application

Common blockers:
- Own co-financing 50–60% for small firms
- Software eligibility not explicit — ask SAB
- Must apply before starting

From the official PDF "Förderquoten FuE-Projekte" (https://www.sab.sachsen.de/documents/d/guest/dok-4-forderquoten-fue-projekte?download=true):
- Small firm, single project: experimental development 40%; industrial research 50% (Leipzig) / 60% (Chemnitz, Dresden) (p. 1)
- Medium firm, single project: experimental development 30%; industrial research 50% (Leipzig) / 55% (p. 1)
- 'Significant' project bonus or joint project: +5 points on experimental development (small firm 45%) (p. 1)
- Large companies cannot run single projects; in joint projects research institutes get 90% (p. 1)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/efre/jtf-forschung-und-entwicklung-projektf%C3%B6rderung-fue-projektf%C3%B6rderung-2021-bis-2027 , https://www.sab.sachsen.de/documents/d/guest/dok-4-forderquoten-fue-projekte?download=true , https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/efre-jtf-technologiefoerderung-projektfoerderung.html

## KMU-innovativ ICT (KMU-innovativ: Informations- und Kommunikationstechnologien (IKT))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/kmu-innovativ-ikt
- Official: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Bund/BMBF/kmu-innovativ-ikt-30771.html
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Grant · Provider: BMFTR (Projektträger DLR)
- Amount: Project grant: 50% of eligible costs for industrial research, 25% for experimental development, plus 20 points for small firms (10 for medium); max 80%; usually up to 3 years · Duration: Usually up to 3 years
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: German business
- Deadline: Outlines evaluated at the 15 Apr and 15 Oct cut-offs; next 15 Oct 2026, then 15 Apr 2027
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- KMU of the commercial economy (gewerbliche Wirtschaft), EU SME definition
- Research-active SME must initiate and lead the project; since Nov 2024 focus on software-intensive systems
- Two stages: outline (max 10 pages, in German) via kmu-innovativ.de, then full application

Common blockers:
- Research-heavy; solo firm must show R&D capacity
- Freiberufler status may not count as gewerblich
- Communication technology and IT security topics were removed in Nov 2024

From the official PDF "Bekanntmachung: Richtlinie zur Förderung von Projekten zum Thema „KMU-innovativ: Informations- und Kommunikationstechnologie (IKT)“ (BAnz AT 20.12.2021 B6)" (https://www.bundesanzeiger.de/pub/publication/RVVCuvxD5Mjrks0byow/content/RVVCuvxD5Mjrks0byow/BAnz%20AT%2020.12.2021%20B6.pdf?inline):
- Companies: 50% for industrial research, 25% for experimental development; small +20, medium +10 points; max 80% (p. 10)
- SMEs of the commercial economy; branch in Germany needed at payout; a research-active SME must lead (p. 4)
- Outline max 10 A4 pages incl. cover page, Arial min 10 pt, in German (p. 7)
- Projects usually run up to 3 years (p. 5)

From the official PDF "Zweite Änderung der Bekanntmachung „KMU-innovativ: IKT“ (BAnz AT 12.11.2024 B2)" (https://www.bundesanzeiger.de/pub/publication/OIRhCOyLgB399pgAYPk/content/OIRhCOyLgB399pgAYPk/BAnz%20AT%2012.11.2024%20B2.pdf?inline):
- Focus narrowed to software-intensive systems; communication systems and IT security removed (p. 1)
- Project agency is now DLR Projektträger, Berlin: kmu-innovativ.IKT@dlr.de (p. 1)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Bund/BMBF/kmu-innovativ-ikt-30771.html , https://www.bundesanzeiger.de/pub/publication/RVVCuvxD5Mjrks0byow/content/RVVCuvxD5Mjrks0byow/BAnz%20AT%2020.12.2021%20B6.pdf?inline , https://www.bundesanzeiger.de/pub/publication/OIRhCOyLgB399pgAYPk/content/OIRhCOyLgB399pgAYPk/BAnz%20AT%2012.11.2024%20B2.pdf?inline , https://www.bundesanzeiger.de/pub/publication/yQ9QYX6S5aDoT49Nja9/content/yQ9QYX6S5aDoT49Nja9/BAnz%20AT%2030.04.2025%20B8.pdf?inline , https://www.gesundheitsindustrie-bw.de/datenbank/foerderungen/kmu-innovativ-informations-und-kommunikationstechnologie-ikt/sendPdf/689596

## DBU Green Start-up (DBU Green Start-up)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/dbu-green-startup
- Official: https://www.dbu.de/foerderung/green-start-up/
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Stipend · Provider: Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU)
- Amount: Up to €125,000 per start-up over 24 months, up to 100% (de minimis). Mainly living costs up to €2,000/month per person, plus some material/external services.
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: yes · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Germany
- Deadline: Applications any time; decisions take months
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Company ≤5 years old; may apply before founding but must be founded by funding start (UG/GmbH/partnerships)
- Fits a DBU funding topic; environmental relief + innovation + viability + personal fit
- German-language application

Common blockers:
- DBU recommends 2+ people; solo not excluded but weaker
- Business model must clearly reduce environmental impact
- Einzelunternehmen not mentioned (Personen-/Kapitalgesellschaften named)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.dbu.de/foerderung/green-start-up/ , https://www.dbu.de/foerderung/green-start-up/foerderung-beantragen/ , https://www.dbu.de/foerderung/green-start-up/faq/

## Berlin Coaching BONUS (Coaching BONUS)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/coaching-bonus-berlin
- Official: https://ibb-business-team.de/en/coaching-bonus/
- Region: Berlin · Type: Coaching · Provider: IBB Business Team (Land Berlin / ESF)
- Amount: First 2 coaching days free for first-time applicants; then 80% of net fees (firms <5 years) / 50% (>5 years), max €1,000/day, up to 20 days total
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat/permanent establishment in Berlin
- Deadline: Rolling; 2026 status not stated on page
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Startups/SMEs with clear technology focus, creative firms with first sales, or social-economy firms
- Coach from the programme's Coach Pool
- Approval before commissioning

Common blockers:
- Must already be a company in Berlin (no pre-founding)
- Pay the coach first, then reimbursement
- German-only application

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://ibb-business-team.de/en/coaching-bonus/

## Berlin microloan (Mikrokredit aus dem KMU-Fonds)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/ibb-mikrokredit-kmu-fonds
- Official: https://www.ibb.de/de/foerderprogramme/mikrokredit-aus-dem-kmu-fonds.html
- Region: Berlin · Type: Loan · Provider: Investitionsbank Berlin (IBB), EFRE
- Amount: Up to €50,000; 6 years incl. 1 repayment-free year; quarterly repayment; 7.50% nominal (7.71% effective) for founders, 7.00% for existing firms, fixed for 6 years (Sep 2026)
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: yes
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business location in Berlin
- Deadline: Rolling; apply before project start
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Founders of commercial or freelance businesses, or firms on market ≤5 years (founding track)
- No bank collateral, but personal guarantee required
- Direct application to IBB (no Hausbank)

Common blockers:
- Negative SCHUFA/tax debt is disqualifying
- Development costs not funded
- Early repayment penalty
- Interest of 7–7.5% p.a. (Sep 2026)

From the official PDF "Konditionsübersicht für Kredite aus dem KMU-Fonds" (https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/mikrokredit-aus-kmu/mikrokredit_konditionsuebersicht.pdf):
- Founding microloan up to EUR 50,000: 7.50% nominal, 7.71% effective, fixed for 6 years (p. 1)
- Microloan for existing firms: 7.00% nominal, 7.19% effective; 0–1 year repayment-free (p. 1)
- Term 6 years; founders get 1 repayment-free year; 100% payout; quarterly instalments (p. 1)
- No commitment fee for microloans; processing fee waived if the loan is approved (p. 1)
- GmbH/UG: shareholders or managing directors with major influence must give a personal guarantee (p. 1)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.ibb.de/de/foerderprogramme/mikrokredit-aus-dem-kmu-fonds.html , https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/mikrokredit-aus-kmu/mikrokredit_konditionsuebersicht.pdf , https://www.ibb.de/media/dokumente/foerderprogramme/wirtschaftsfoerderung/mehrfach-verwendet/kmu-fonds_mb.pdf

## Sovereign Tech Fund (Sovereign Tech Fund)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sovereign-tech-fund
- Official: https://www.sovereign.tech/programs/fund
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Grant · Provider: Sovereign Tech Agency (federally funded)
- Amount: Work must be estimated above €50,000 (current minimum); no max stated
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: None stated (invests globally)
- Deadline: Applications via apply.sovereign.tech; no deadline stated
- Application languages: de, en

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

Common blockers:
- 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

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.sovereign.tech/programs/fund , https://www.sovereign.tech/programs

## GitHub Secure Open Source Fund (GitHub Secure Open Source Fund)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/github-secure-open-source-fund
- Official: https://github.com/open-source/github-secure-open-source-fund
- Region: European Union · Type: Grant · Provider: GitHub (with partners)
- Amount: $10,000 per project, paid in 3 tranches ($6k/$2k/$2k) + 3-week security programme + Azure credits/tools
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Region supported by GitHub Sponsors (Germany is)
- Deadline: Rolling review for upcoming sessions
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Maintainer(s) of an OSS project (max 2 people)
- Clear OSS licence, traction, governance
- ~20 hours total commitment (PST meeting times)

Common blockers:
- Project needs demonstrated adoption
- Meetings in US Pacific time

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://github.com/open-source/github-secure-open-source-fund

## Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs (Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/erasmus-young-entrepreneurs
- Official: https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/
- Region: European Union · Type: Stipend · Provider: European Commission (EISMEA, SMP/COSME) via local contact points
- Amount: Monthly lump sum for travel and living costs, set by host country: EUR 600–1,200 (e.g. Netherlands 950, Spain 900, Germany 900, Denmark 1,200, USA 1,200); 1–6 months abroad · Duration: 1–6 months abroad within 12 months; can be split into slots of at least 1 week
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Resident in an EU/participating country; apply via a contact point in your region
- Deadline: Rolling via local contact points (2026 intermediary call closed 21 Apr 2026, so new contact-point contracts are being set up)
- Application languages: en, de

Eligibility:
- New entrepreneur with a concrete business plan, or running a business for no more than 3 years; no upper age limit, 18+
- Works up to 6 months with an experienced host entrepreneur in another participating country
- Apply via a local contact point (Berlin: ABUplus, STIC; Saxony: Landesverband Kultur- und Kreativwirtschaft Sachsen in Dresden, TGZ Bautzen)

Common blockers:
- Must find a host entrepreneur in another country
- Money only covers time abroad; proof of travel and stay required
- Only one participation per new entrepreneur

From the official PDF "Monthly financial assistance (exchanges starting from 01/06/2024)" (https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/upload/2024-05%20Financial%20assistance%20for%20exchanges%20starting%20from%20June%202024.pdf):
- Monthly lump sum by host country: Germany EUR 900, Netherlands 950, France 950, Austria/Italy 1,000 (p. 1)
- Highest: Denmark, Norway, Liechtenstein EUR 1,200; Ireland 1,100; lowest: Albania EUR 600 (p. 1)
- Spain EUR 900, Sweden 1,000, UK 1,100, Singapore 1,150, USA 1,200 per month (p. 2)
- Entrepreneurs with disabilities get EUR 1,200/month in any host country (p. 2)

From the official PDF "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs – Programme Guide" (https://erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/upload/Programme%20Guide%20EN,%20Update%20Mar%202023.pdf):
- Stay of 1–6 months within 12 months; can be split into slots of at least 1 week (p. 3)
- New entrepreneurs: planning a business or running one for no more than 3 years (p. 5)
- New and host entrepreneur must be from different countries; register via a contact point in your country (p. 6)
- Your contact point pays the grant directly to you, based on actual time spent abroad (p. 10)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/page.php?pid=005 , https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/page.php?cid=05&pid=018&ctr=DE , https://eismea.ec.europa.eu/funding-opportunities/calls-proposals/erasmus-young-entrepreneurs-smp-cosme-2026-eye_en , https://www.erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/upload/2024-05%20Financial%20assistance%20for%20exchanges%20starting%20from%20June%202024.pdf , https://erasmus-entrepreneurs.eu/upload/Programme%20Guide%20EN,%20Update%20Mar%202023.pdf

## Saxony circular economy grant (Förderrichtlinie Kreislaufwirtschaft und Ressourceneffizienz (RL KrW/RE))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sachsen-kreislaufwirtschaft
- Official: https://revosax.sachsen.de/vorschrift/21473-Foerderrichtlinie-Kreislaufwirtschaft-und-Ressourceneffizienz
- Region: Saxony · Type: Grant · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB) for the Saxon Ministry of Economics (SMWA)
- Amount: Grant; rate depends on measure, company size and region. Awareness/knowledge-transfer projects EUR 2,500–60,000 at 80% for small firms; circular production investments EUR 8,000–5m at 55% for small firms; STEP critical-technology investments 90%
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Project in Saxony
- Deadline: Applications via the SAB portal (www.sab.sachsen.de/frl-kreislaufwirtschaft); the federal funding database lists 30 Jun 2029 as the last submission date (guideline of 16 Jan 2026).
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Companies, municipalities, associations, clubs and non-profits
- Funds products or processes that cut waste or raw material use, better waste handling, and awareness, exchange and knowledge transfer on waste prevention
- Preparation for re-use is named; digital platforms are not named explicitly

Common blockers:
- A pure marketplace without a measurable waste-prevention effect
- Own work (Eigenleistungen) is not an eligible cost
- Starting before the application reaches SAB; after that, an early start is at your own risk
- Freelancers (Freiberufler) are not named among eligible applicants; ask SAB first

From the official PDF "Förderrichtlinie Kreislaufwirtschaft und Ressourceneffizienz (FRL KrW/2026) vom 16. Januar 2026" (https://revosax.sachsen.de/vorschrift_gesamt/21473/49374.pdf):
- Awareness/exchange projects (EFRE 2.1 c): EUR 2,500–60,000; small firms 80%, medium 70% (p. 13)
- Circular production investments (EFRE 2.1 a): EUR 8,000–5m; small firms 55%, medium 45% (p. 13)
- Eligible: companies, municipalities, waste authorities, associations, clubs, non-profits (p. 4)
- You may start once SAB has received the application, at your own risk (p. 9)
- Own work (Eigenleistungen), insurance and recoverable VAT are not eligible costs (p. 9)

Verified 2026-10-08 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Land/Sachsen/kreislaufwirtschaft.html , https://revosax.sachsen.de/vorschrift/21473-Foerderrichtlinie-Kreislaufwirtschaft-und-Ressourceneffizienz , https://revosax.sachsen.de/vorschrift_gesamt/21473/49374.pdf

## AIDEAS: circular business ideas with AI (AIDEAS #1 – Ideen für zirkuläre Geschäftsmodelle (Circular AI Hub))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/aideas-circular-ai-hub
- Official: https://circular-ai-hub.org/aideas
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Prize · Provider: Circular AI Hub (Federal Environment Ministry, BMUKN)
- Amount: EUR 10,000 fixed payment for each of up to 10 teams to work out the idea (2 Nov to 19 Dec 2026), plus a pitch at the Circular AI Hub FORUM on 10 Nov 2026 · Duration: 7 weeks
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: Individuals must live in Germany
- Deadline: Apply by 16 Oct 2026 (first AIDEAS round; opened 16 Sep 2026).
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Natural persons may apply, so no company is needed
- The concept must use AI for a circular-economy problem (reuse, repair, resale, recycling)
- The work must not already be publicly funded
- Ends with a 5-10 page report in December 2026

Common blockers:
- No AI element in the idea
- Idea already funded by another public program

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://circular-ai-hub.org/aideas , https://www.bundesumweltministerium.de/pressemitteilung/bundesumweltministerium-startet-innovationsplattform-circular-ai-hub-kuenstliche-intelligenz-soll-unternehmen-der-kreislaufwirtschaft-helfen

## DigiRess Circular: digital circular business models (DigiRess Circular (BMUKN, VDI TZ))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/digiress-circular
- Official: https://www.digiress.de/digiress-circular/
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Grant · Provider: Federal Environment Ministry (BMUKN), project agency VDI Technologiezentrum
- Amount: EUR 100,000 to 1 million per project for up to about 3 years; small firms get up to 85% of costs, so about 15% is your own share · Duration: up to about 3 years
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Deadline: Sketch cut-offs 15 Jun and 15 Sep 2026 (passed) and 15 Dec 2026; no 2027 dates yet.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Commercial companies (Unternehmen der gewerblichen Wirtschaft); start-ups and micro firms are the main target
- Funding line (c) covers digital circular business models: sharing, reuse, resale and return platforms
- Two stages: project sketch on the VDI TZ portal, then a formal application
- Do not start the project before applying

Common blockers:
- Freelance income only, without a trade registration or company
- Project smaller than EUR 100,000
- No money for the 15% own share

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.digiress.de/digiress-circular/ , https://www.digiress.de/digiress-circular/forderbekanntmachung-circular

## RE\WARD idea competition for circular solutions (Ideenwettbewerb Re\ward (Stadt Leipzig))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipzig-reward-ideenwettbewerb
- Official: https://www.leipzig.de/newsarchiv/news/ideenwettbewerb-reward-sucht-marktfaehige-loesungen-fuer-die-kreislaufwirtschaft
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Prize · Provider: City of Leipzig
- Amount: City competition for market-ready repair, reuse and rethink ideas; the prize is set out in the call on leipzig.de
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: unclear · Full-time required: no · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Solution for Leipzig
- Deadline: Applications close 23 Oct 2026.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Market-ready ideas for the circular economy: repair, reuse, resale
- Aimed at Leipzig founders, businesses and initiatives

Common blockers:
- No reuse or repair angle

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: low). Sources: https://www.leipzig.de/newsarchiv/news/ideenwettbewerb-reward-sucht-marktfaehige-loesungen-fuer-die-kreislaufwirtschaft

## Leipzig Future Prize (sustainability) (Leipziger Zukunftspreis 2026/27)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipziger-zukunftspreis
- Official: https://nachhaltiges-leipzig.de/foerdern-unterstuetzen/foerdern-unterstuetzen-leipziger-zukunftspreis/
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Prize · Provider: Forum Nachhaltiges Leipzig with the City of Leipzig
- Amount: EUR 12,000 in total: EUR 3,000 for sustainable small businesses, EUR 4,000 for new projects of initiatives, EUR 5,000 for long-running initiatives
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat in Leipzig
- Deadline: Apply by 30 Nov 2026; winners announced in spring 2027.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Business category: small and medium firms of any legal form with a seat in Leipzig
- Initiative categories: associations and civic initiatives
- Firms apply themselves through a five-step online form

Common blockers:
- No sustainability practice to show yet

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://nachhaltiges-leipzig.de/foerdern-unterstuetzen/foerdern-unterstuetzen-leipziger-zukunftspreis/

## Leipzig Pop-up Store competition (Ideenwettbewerb Pop-up-Store (Petersbogen))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipzig-popup-store
- Official: https://www.leipzig.de/wirtschaft-und-wissenschaft/mittelstand-staerken/foerdermittel/zentrenbelebung/ideenwettbewerb-pop-up-store
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Voucher · Provider: City of Leipzig, Amt für Wirtschaftsförderung (Zentrenbelebung)
- Amount: Use of a 160 m² city-centre shop in the Petersbogen for 6 months, with help on fit-out and marketing · Duration: 6 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Shop in Leipzig city centre
- Deadline: About two rounds a year; the last call closed 18 Jan 2026 and the next one is not announced yet.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Companies, associations, initiatives and freelancers
- For start-ups that want to test a retail concept with real customers

Common blockers:
- No physical product or retail concept

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.leipzig.de/wirtschaft-und-wissenschaft/mittelstand-staerken/foerdermittel/zentrenbelebung/ideenwettbewerb-pop-up-store , https://www.leipzig.de/newsarchiv/news/fast-wie-massgeschneidert-zame-zame-eroeffnet-pop-up-store-im-petersbogen

## Smart City Challenge Leipzig (Smart City Challenge Leipzig)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/smart-city-challenge-leipzig
- Official: https://smart-city-challenge-leipzig.de/
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Prize · Provider: City of Leipzig, Referat Digitale Stadt, with Smart Infrastructure Hub Leipzig
- Amount: Pilot contract with the city of up to EUR 25,000, plus up to EUR 10,000 if the solution is released as open source
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Deadline: 2026 round closed 4 Jun 2026; the next round starts in spring 2027.
- Application languages: de, en

Eligibility:
- Start-ups, founders, companies and students
- Each round solves specific city problems (2026: AI checks of grant reports, a council chatbot, crisis simulations)

Common blockers:
- The year's challenges do not match your product

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://smart-city-challenge-leipzig.de/

## Leipzig Founding Night prizes (Leipziger Gründungsnacht (Idee & StartUp))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/leipziger-gruendungsnacht
- Official: https://leipziger-gruendungsnacht.de/
- Region: Leipzig · Type: Prize · Provider: SMILE, Startbahn 13, Sparkasse Leipzig, City of Leipzig and districts
- Amount: 2025 prizes: EUR 5,000 for the best idea (audience vote) and EUR 10,000 for the best young start-up
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: no · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat in Leipzig, Landkreis Leipzig or Nordsachsen
- Deadline: Pitch applications usually close in Aug–Sep; the 2026 evening is on 17 Nov 2026. Next application window expected summer 2027.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Idea prize: idea not yet implemented, or founded very recently
- Start-up prize: founded within the window set each year (2025: 1 Jan 2023 to 30 Jun 2025)
- Open to non-academics and solo founders

Common blockers:
- Founding date outside the year's window

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://leipziger-gruendungsnacht.de/

## KfW ERP Founding Loan (ERP-Förderkredit Gründung und Nachfolge (KfW 077))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/kfw-erp-gruendung-077
- Official: https://www.kfw.de/PDF/Download-Center/F%C3%B6rderprogramme-(Inlandsf%C3%B6rderung)/PDF-Dokumente/6000000213_M_077.pdf
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Loan · Provider: KfW via your bank, with a 100% Bürgschaftsbank guarantee
- Amount: Loan up to EUR 500,000 for up to 35% of costs; 15 years with 5 repayment-free, or 10 with 2; a Bürgschaftsbank guarantees 100%, so no other collateral · Duration: 10-15 years
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Deadline: Rolling through your bank.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Commercial or freelance founders, less than 5 years in business
- Apply through your bank before the investment starts
- Can be combined with ERP-Kapital für Gründung (058); EUR 500,000 cap in total

Common blockers:
- Business plan the bank does not find fundable
- Investment already started

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.kfw.de/PDF/Download-Center/F%C3%B6rderprogramme-(Inlandsf%C3%B6rderung)/PDF-Dokumente/6000000213_M_077.pdf , https://www.ihk.de/dresden/hauptnavigation/finanzierung-foerderung/foerdermittel-im-ueberblick/erp-foerderkredit-gruendung-und-nachfolge-kfw--6409916

## Micro-Mezzanine Fund Germany (Mikromezzaninfonds Deutschland III (MBG Sachsen))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/mikromezzaninfonds
- Official: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Bund/BMWi/mikromezzaninfonds.html
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Investment · Provider: BMWE and ESF Plus, delivered in Saxony by MBG Sachsen
- Amount: Silent participation up to EUR 100,000, or EUR 150,000 for social and ecological firms; about 8% a year effective plus up to 2% profit share; 10 years, no collateral · Duration: 10 years
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Deadline: Rolling; fund III started in April 2025.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Small and young companies and founders with a viable business
- Higher cap for commercially run social enterprises and ecologically sustainable firms

Common blockers:
- No sign yet that the business can pay the return
- Restructuring cases

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.foerderdatenbank.de/FDB/Content/DE/Foerderprogramm/Bund/BMWi/mikromezzaninfonds.html , https://vdb.ermoeglicher.de/de/aktuelles/presse/mikromezzaninfonds-iii-gestartet/

## Guarantee without a bank (Saxony) (Bürgschaft ohne Bank (BoB, Bürgschaftsbank Sachsen))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/buergschaft-ohne-bank-sachsen
- Official: https://sn.ermoeglicher.de/de/ueber-uns/service-downloads/buergschaftsprogramme/b%C3%BCrgschaft-ohne-bank-bob/
- Region: Saxony · Type: Loan · Provider: Bürgschaftsbank Sachsen
- Amount: Guarantee of up to 80% of a loan, max EUR 160,000, promised before you look for a bank; 1% one-off fee and 1.1-1.5% a year · Duration: up to 15 years
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Investment in Saxony
- Deadline: Rolling.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Founders and existing firms, including freelancers (freie Berufe)
- For equipment, vehicles, inventory, working capital and rent deposits
- Apply to the Bürgschaftsbank first, then take the promise to a lender

Common blockers:
- You still need a lender for the loan itself

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://sn.ermoeglicher.de/de/ueber-uns/service-downloads/buergschaftsprogramme/b%C3%BCrgschaft-ohne-bank-bob/

## SAB Saxony Loan Universal (Sachsenkredit Universal (SAB))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-sachsenkredit-universal
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/sab-sachsenkredit-universal-neu
- Region: Saxony · Type: Loan · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB) via your bank
- Amount: Investment loans from EUR 20,000 (4-20 years) and working-capital loans from EUR 20,000; 4% of the loan is forgiven, 6% for start-up financing · Duration: 1-20 years
- Equity: conditional · Repayable: yes
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business in Saxony
- Deadline: Rolling; terms changed on 13 May 2026.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- People founding a commercial business and members of the free professions (Freiberufler)
- Applied for through your bank

Common blockers:
- Needs less than EUR 20,000
- Refinancing, leasing goods, rental property or energy plants

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/sab-sachsenkredit-universal-neu

## SAB Business Consulting Grant (Beratungsförderung – Betriebsberatung (SAB))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/sab-beratungsfoerderung
- Official: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/beratungsf%C3%B6rderung-betriebsberatung
- Region: Saxony · Type: Voucher · Provider: Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB)
- Amount: 50% of EUR 800 per consultant day for 5-20 days a year, about EUR 2,000-8,000 · Duration: 12 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Seat in Saxony
- Deadline: Rolling; the SAB page says the budget is tight but the direct route is open. Confirm before you book a consultant.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Micro firms and SMEs in Saxony, freelancers included
- Business, strategy, marketing or HR consulting; building software is not covered

Common blockers:
- Budget stops: check that applications are being taken
- Software development or advertising costs

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://www.sab.sachsen.de/en/beratungsf%C3%B6rderung-betriebsberatung

## futureSAX mentoring network (Sächsisches Mentoring-Netzwerk (futureSAX))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/futuresax-mentoring
- Official: https://www.futuresax.de/kosmos/saechsisches-mentoring-netzwerk
- Region: Saxony · Type: Coaching · Provider: futureSAX (innovation platform of the Free State of Saxony)
- Amount: Free long-term 1:1 mentoring by an experienced entrepreneur
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Business in Saxony
- Deadline: Matched at the end of each quarter; next cut-off 31 Dec 2026.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Your business is at least one year old

Common blockers:
- Business younger than one year

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.futuresax.de/kosmos/saechsisches-mentoring-netzwerk

## KREATIVES SACHSEN consulting (KREATIVES SACHSEN – Beratung)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/kreatives-sachsen-beratung
- Official: https://www.kreatives-sachsen.de/beratung/
- Region: Saxony · Type: Coaching · Provider: KREATIVES SACHSEN (Saxon centre for the cultural and creative industries)
- Amount: Free consulting on marketing, financing, business development and matching to funding; up to 3 sessions in 3 years
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: unclear · University link required: no
- Location condition: Residence in Saxony
- Deadline: Rolling.
- Application languages: de

Eligibility:
- Anyone working in the cultural and creative industries in Saxony, solo self-employed included
- De-minimis declaration needed

Common blockers:
- Project is not part of the creative industries

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.kreatives-sachsen.de/beratung/

## EIT Urban Mobility RAPTOR (EIT Urban Mobility RAPTOR)

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/eit-urban-mobility-raptor
- Official: https://www.eiturbanmobility.eu/join-us/call-for-proposals/
- Region: European Union · Type: Grant · Provider: EIT Urban Mobility (EU)
- Amount: EUR 60,000 lump sum for a 6-month pilot that solves one city's mobility challenge · Duration: 6 months
- Equity: equity-free · Repayable: no
- Stages: prototype, pre_revenue, revenue, incorporated
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: unclear · Company required: yes · University link required: no
- Location condition: Legal entity in the EU
- Deadline: Annual call; 2026 closed 12 Mar 2026. The 2027 call is expected in Jan–Mar 2027.
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- One SME legal entity in the EU or an associated country; no consortia
- The solution must answer one of the year's city challenges

Common blockers:
- None of the year's city challenges fits your product

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: medium). Sources: https://eit.europa.eu/our-activities/opportunities/raptor-open-call-2026 , https://www.eiturbanmobility.eu/join-us/call-for-proposals/

## Antler ONE Residency (Antler ONE (Berlin))

- Page: https://stipendium.berlin/funding/antler-one-berlin
- Official: https://www.antler.co/location/germany
- Region: Germany (nationwide) · Type: Investment · Provider: Antler (venture capital)
- Amount: Up to EUR 500,000 pre-seed (EUR 200,000 at once, the rest as follow-on) for about 10% equity; co-founder matching for solo founders · Duration: 10 weeks, then investment
- Equity: equity · Repayable: no
- Stages: idea, prototype, pre_revenue
- Solo founders: yes · Full-time required: yes · Company required: no · University link required: no
- Location condition: In Berlin for the kickoff
- Deadline: Applications all year; cohorts start in March and September (next: March 2027).
- Application languages: en

Eligibility:
- Solo founders accepted through the co-founder matching track
- Pre-idea and pre-revenue are fine; applications all year

Common blockers:
- You don't want to give up equity
- Business not built for venture scale

Verified 2026-10-09 (confidence: high). Sources: https://www.antler.co/location/germany , https://www.antler.co/blog/introducing-antler-one