Funding
Digitalisation and AI funding in Germany 2026: grants from the federal states, the federal government and the EU
Which digitalisation and AI funding fits your company in Germany? Over 160 programmes from the federal states, the federal government and the EU – with a funding finder, requirements and how to apply.
Key takeaways
In short:
- In 2026, most grants for digitalisation and AI in Germany come from the federal states (Länder). Nationwide investment grants such as “Digital Jetzt” and “go-digital” have ended.
- The federal government mainly funds consulting, coaching, training and research, and provides low-interest KfW loans. The EU supports SMEs with free services and computing time for AI; large grants are usually competitive.
- Always apply before the project starts. A plain company website is rarely eligible, whereas digital processes and AI applications often are.
With the funding finder you can see in a few clicks which of the more than 160 researched programmes fit your federal state, company size and project.
Funding finder: which funding fits your company?
Choose your federal state, company size and project. For each programme you see the funding amount, current status, requirements and a link to the official programme page. Your selection is saved in the address bar, so you can share the link.
Funding finder
Choose your federal state, company size and project. The finder lists matching state, federal and EU programmes with requirements, amounts and how to apply.
36 matching programmes
Tip: select your federal state – most grants for digitalisation are state programmes.
Federal programmes (Germany-wide)19
BA-Weiterbildungsförderung
Bundesagentur für Arbeit (Federal Employment Agency) (employer service)
Grants towards course fees and wages (amount depends on company size/age/qualifications) or training allowance as wage replacement; collective application for several employees possible
Ongoing standard BA programme (page current, training allowance/Further Training Act).
- AI projects: AI training courses are eligible if they last over 120 hours and are delivered by an accredited provider.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Businesses of every size for training their employees (incl. Qualification Opportunities Act/Further Training Act, training allowance); advice from the employer service
Requirements
- Training + provider accredited; over 120 hours; beyond short-term induction
- Apply to the employer service before starting
- Training allowance: need for structural change + company agreement/collective agreement; employer covers course costs
What is funded
- Vocational training of over 120 hours by an accredited provider (e.g. AI/digital courses, where they go beyond short-term induction training)
- Training advice, collective applications, training allowance in cases of structural change
Not eligible
- Purely job-related short-term induction training (e.g. company-specific software training)
How to apply
- Contact the employer service for advice
- Apply for funding (individual or collective application) before starting
- Carry out the training, submit evidence
Combining with other funding
The mein NOW funding navigator also lists state programmes; clarify cumulation in each case.
BAFA Unternehmensberatung
Bundesamt für Wirtschaft und Ausfuhrkontrolle – BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control) on behalf of the Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie – BMWE (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy), co-financed by ESF Plus
Grant of 50% (max. €1,750) in the old federal states incl. Berlin/Leipzig; 80% (max. €2,800) in the new federal states; based on max. €3,500 of consultancy costs
Guideline applies to applications until 31 Dec 2026; online application and proof of use at BAFA active; max. 2 consultancies/year, max. 5 during the guideline period.
- AI projects: AI consultancy (e.g. AI strategy, AI rollout, business model) is eligible where it is conceptual management consultancy by a BAFA-registered consultant; no pure IT installation/training as seminars.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs in commercial business and the liberal professions; excluded include consultancy-sector businesses, non-profits and companies in insolvency
Requirements
- SME as per the EU definition (<250 employees, max. €50 million turnover or €43 million balance sheet)
- Legally independent, in commercial business or a liberal profession, with registered office/operations in Germany
- Consultant must be registered with BAFA
- No insolvency/asset disclosure; applicants must not be from the consultancy, tax advisory or legal professions
- Apply BEFORE the consultancy starts (including before signing a contract)
What is funded
- Conceptual consultancy delivered individually, covering all commercial, financial, HR and organisational management issues
- Consultancy costs of up to €3,500 (fees, expenses, travel excluding VAT)
- Includes digitalisation and AI consultancy where it concerns management issues
Not eligible
- Consultancy mainly covering legal, insurance or tax matters, annual accounts, bookkeeping
- Expert opinions/appraisals
- Seminars/workshops/group events (one-to-one consultancy only)
- Funding advice as the main topic
- Consultancy by affiliated persons, relatives or consultants affected by insolvency
How to apply
- Apply online via the BAFA application platform (online only)
- Freely choose a coordination office (DIHK, ZDH, BBG, BDS-DGV, Leitstelle Gewerbeförderungsmittel, INTERHOGA)
- Wait for the coordination office's information letter – only then may the consultancy begin (no consultancy contract before that either)
- Carry out the consultancy (max. 5 days) and have a consultancy report drawn up
- Submit proof of use electronically no later than 6 months after the information letter (form, EU SME/de minimis declaration, consultancy report, invoice, bank statement)
- Approval and payment by BAFA after review
Combining with other funding
No cumulation: no other public funding for the same consultancy costs (incl. ESF). De minimis aid (Regulation 2023/2831, €300,000 / 3 years).
Website & online shop: Pure website creation/online shops are not management consultancy; digital strategy/e-commerce advice is possible as part of management consultancy.
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
Digitale AfA 1 Jahr
BMF (Federal Ministry of Finance) (BMF guidance); tax offices
Option: 1-year standard useful life for computer hardware and operating/application software (de-facto immediate write-off in the year of acquisition)
Option under BMF guidance; ask your tax adviser whether it applies to your financial year.
- AI projects: AI software/hardware counts as digital assets.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
All companies preparing balance sheets/surplus calculations with computer hardware/software
Requirements
- Classification as eligible digital assets; note tax adviser/depreciation tables
What is funded
- Computer hardware, operating and application software (per BMF guidance 2021/2022)
How to apply
- Acquisition
- Claim the one-year depreciation in the tax return
Combining with other funding
Can be combined with the investment-booster depreciation (check the option per asset).
EDIH
EU (Digital Europe Programme) + BMWE/BMDS nationally; German EDIH nodes
'Test before invest' services, training, networking; usually free/low-cost for SMEs (de minimis); EDIH Summit 06/2026
EU network active (Summit 09–10 Jun 2026, Brussels); German hubs via the catalogue.
- AI projects: AI ecosystem/Summit 2026; AI services from the hubs.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs and public institutions; services via the nearest hub
Requirements
- SMEs; contact the nearest EDIH via the catalogue
What is funded
- Digital readiness (Digital Speed Test), test-before-invest, AI training, networking
How to apply
- Digital Speed Test
- Find the nearest EDIH
- Use services (advice/training)
Combining with other funding
EU level (more detail in eu.json if applicable); linked nationally with Mittelstand-Digital.
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
ERP-Förderkredit Digitalisierung (511/512)
KfW (ERP special fund)
Loan of up to €25 million (levels 2/3), term of up to 10 years; reduced interest; grant of up to 5% of the loan amount (max. approx. €200,000) at levels 2/3; SMEs receive the most favourable terms; risk-sharing with your bank (house bank) possible
Active KfW product (loan nos. 511, 512); apply via a financing partner.
- AI projects: AI projects (e.g. deploying AI in the company) explicitly listed as eligible; dedicated KfW page 'AI in SMEs'.
- Website & online shop: Digital business models/e-commerce are generally covered as digitalisation projects; check specific website costs in the product fact sheet.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Companies and freelancers of every size; SMEs benefit from the most favourable terms
Requirements
- Companies and freelancers (incl. small businesses) based in Germany
- Apply before the project starts via a financing partner
- Standard bank collateral
What is funded
- Digitalisation projects in 3 levels: basic digitalisation (incl. basic IT equipment such as laptops/mobile phones, standard software, IT security), LevelUp, HighEnd (incl. AI deployment, digital business models)
- Capital investment and ongoing costs of the project
- Also staff training in a digital context (per the KfW overview page)
Not eligible
- Debt refinancing; see the product fact sheet for details
How to apply
- Contact your financing partner (house bank) and clarify the level assignment (using the digitalisation check/level compass if needed)
- Apply via the financing partner before the project starts
- Apply for the grant (levels 2/3) together with the loan
Combining with other funding
For combinations with other funding, see the KfW overview 'Securing additional funding'; state-aid rules depend on the structure (GBER/de minimis) – clarify details with your financing partner.
ERP-Förderkredit Innovation (513/514)
KfW (ERP special fund)
Loan of up to €7.5 million (level 1) or €25 million (levels 2/3), 2–10 year term, fixed interest; grant of up to 5% at levels 2/3; no minimum amount; risk-sharing with your bank (house bank) possible
Active KfW product (loan nos. 513, 514).
- AI projects: Level 3 explicitly for AI innovations and AI-based development methods.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Freelancers, sole traders, SMEs and larger mid-sized companies with up to €500 million annual turnover
Requirements
- Companies/freelancers based in Germany
- Apply before the project starts via a financing partner
- Standard bank collateral
What is funded
- Basic innovations (new/improved products/processes, market launch)
- LevelUp (basic/industrial research, experimental development, production conversion)
- HighEnd (AI innovations, AI-based development methods, large LevelUp projects)
- Capital investment and ongoing costs (incl. staff)
Not eligible
- Debt refinancing; see the product fact sheet for details
How to apply
- Contact your financing partner and clarify the level assignment (level compass)
- Apply via the financing partner before the project starts
- Apply for the grant (levels 2/3) together with the loan
Combining with other funding
See the KfW overview 'Securing additional funding'.
Website & online shop: Pure websites/online shops are not eligible; digital product/process innovations with a degree of novelty are.
ERP-Gründerkredit/Förderkredit KMU
KfW (ERP special fund)
Loans via your bank (house bank): 077 from 5.35% effective, up to 15 years; 365/366 from 4.26% effective, up to 20 years, 50% risk assumption; interest advantage in assisted areas
Active KfW products (interest rates as accessed on 23 Oct 2026, daily rates).
- AI projects: AI projects can be financed as part of the startup/investment (e.g. via 365/366 or the digitalisation loan).
- Website & online shop: Websites/shops can be financed as startup investment within the overall project (bank decides case by case).
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Founders, successors, young companies and SMEs; 067 for smaller amounts, 077 for startups/successions, 365/366 as the general SME loan
Requirements
- Based in Germany; apply before the project starts via a financing partner; standard bank collateral/guarantee bank (077)
What is funded
- Investments and operating costs for startups, successions, acquisitions and expansion of young companies; digitalisation investments as part of the project
Not eligible
- Debt refinancing; product fact sheet for details
How to apply
- Pre-check on the KfW website
- Contact your financing partner
- Apply via the partner before starting
Forschungszulage
Bescheinigungsstelle Forschungszulage – BSFZ (Research Allowance Certification Office) + tax office; BMFTR (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) / BMF (Federal Ministry of Finance)
Tax credit of 25% of the assessment base (SMEs +10 percentage points = 35%); max. approx. €3 million/year (€4.2 million for SMEs from 2026)
Ongoing programme; 25%/35% SME rates and the 20% overhead flat rate from 2026 confirmed by the BSFZ.
- AI projects: AI R&D (e.g. proprietary models/processes, experimental development) is classically eligible; KfW explicitly cites AI innovations as an example.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
All companies taxable in Germany of any size/sector with in-house R&D (basic research, industrial research, experimental development)
Requirements
- R&D project (basic research/industrial research/experimental development)
- BSFZ certificate before applying to the tax office
- Apply to the tax office up to 4 years after the financial year
What is funded
- Wages for in-house R&D projects
- Own work by sole traders/partners
- Contract research (contractor in the EU/EEA)
- Depreciation of movable assets (acquired/started after 27 Mar 2024)
- Flat-rate 20% overhead/operating costs for projects from 2026
How to apply
- Submit the R&D project to the BSFZ digitally for certification (before/during/after the project, but before the tax-office application)
- Apply for the research allowance at the tax office (up to 4 years after the financial year)
- Credit/payment via tax assessment
Combining with other funding
Note cumulation with other funding (check GBER/de minimis rules per project).
Hightech Agenda
BMFTR (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) (lead); implementation via specialist programmes/calls
Umbrella strategy for 6 key technologies (AI, quantum, microelectronics, biotech, etc.); funding via specific calls; 1-year HTAD review 30 Jul 2026, Hightech Spaces competition 08/2026
Umbrella strategy active (no dedicated application portal); funding only via specific calls.
- AI projects: AI as key technology no. 1 (computing power, data, models, AI action plan).
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Depending on the measure: companies, startups, research; SME access via specialist calls (e.g. KMU-innovativ)
Requirements
- Applicable funding call in each case
What is funded
- Depending on the call: AI, quantum, microelectronics, biotech etc.; roadmaps/milestones
How to apply
- Follow calls/roadmaps
- Submit an outline/application for the call
INQA-Coaching
Bundesministerium für Arbeit und Soziales – BMAS (Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs), ESF Plus; regional INQA advice centres, authorised INQA coaches
Up to 12 coaching days, 80% of consultancy costs funded; initial consultation free
Funding period 2023–2028 (ESF Plus/BMAS); 2025/2026 case studies confirm an ongoing programme.
- AI projects: AI documented as a coaching topic (case studies: AI in a furniture workshop; AI experimentation room); rollout/organisational consultancy, not R&D.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs (<250 employees, max. €50 million turnover/€43 million balance sheet), at least 1 full-time position subject to social insurance, registered office and place of work in Germany, at least 2 years in business; also liberal professions/non-profits
Requirements
- SME definition as above; at least 2 years in business
- Free initial consultation at a regional INQA advice centre, coaching voucher
- Authorised INQA coach
What is funded
- Process consultancy on digitalisation, AI, HR strategy, work organisation (up to 7 months in the company)
- Staff participation; trialling digital solutions
How to apply
- Free initial consultation at a regional INQA advice centre, define the coaching goal
- Receive the INQA coaching voucher
- Coaching (up to 7 months) with an authorised coach in the company
- Follow-up meeting 3–6 months later
Combining with other funding
ESF Plus funding; clarify cumulation with other programmes locally.
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
Investitionsbooster/degressive AfA
BMF (Federal Ministry of Finance) (legislator); tax offices
Declining-balance depreciation of up to 30% for movable assets (acquired 01 Jul 2025–31 Dec 2027); corporation-tax cut from 15% to 10% (2028–2032); special EV depreciation of 75% in the first year
Law passed (Bundestag 26 Jun 2025, Bundesrat 11 Jul 2025); depreciation period Jul 2025–Dec 2027.
- AI projects: AI hardware (e.g. servers/GPUs) and R&D expenditure (research-allowance package) benefit.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
All companies investing in movable fixed assets
Requirements
- Note the acquisition/period (after 30 Jun 2025, before 01 Jan 2028)
- Tax profit calculation; see BMF guidance/tax adviser for details
What is funded
- Movable assets (incl. IT hardware, machinery, e-vehicles with special rules)
- Digital assets benefit from faster refinancing
How to apply
- Make the investment
- Claim declining-balance depreciation in the tax return/e-balance sheet
Combining with other funding
Tax measure; research-allowance base additionally raised to €12 million, own work €100/hour.
MDZ Bremen-Oldenburg
BMWK (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, Mittelstand-Digital initiative); regional operators, BAB as financing partner
Free support: expert knowledge, exchange of experience, networks, innovation workshops, prototype/R&D projects; subsequent financing advice by BAB
Listed as an active free offer on the BAB website.
- AI projects: AI/digitalisation knowledge and projects as a centre focus.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Preferably SMEs in Bremen/Oldenburg (incl. Maritime Economy/Logistics, Wind Energy, Aerospace, Automotive, Food clusters)
Requirements
- Companies from the Bremen/Oldenburg region with digitalisation or AI questions
What is funded
- Digitalisation checks and orientation
- Process optimisation, new business models, technological/human framework
How to apply
- Contact the centre
- Use the free offers (workshops, consultation hours, projects)
- If applicable, follow up with BAB financing advice
MDZ Saarbrücken
Federal Government (BMWE/federal funds), regional partners include saaris/HTW (to be verified)
Free offers: knowledge transfer (events), personal consultations, networking; EDIH with real-world labs ('test before invest')
Ongoing free offer in Saarland.
- AI projects: AI applications and IT security stated as focuses.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs (including Saarland); focuses on office/production digitalisation, sensor technology, process virtualisation, AI, corporate culture, energy/resource efficiency, change, IT security.
Requirements
- SME (details from the centre)
What is funded
- Advice/knowledge transfer/networking on digitalisation/AI/IT security
- Real-world labs (cross-border EDIH network Greater Region)
How to apply
- Contact saaris/DTH/MDZ contacts
Mittelstand-Digital
BMWE (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy); Mittelstand-Digital Agency + regional Mittelstand-Digital Centres
Free information, training (courses/webinars/e-learning), demonstrators, case studies, AI application projects (implementation support)
Ongoing free services from the Mittelstand-Digital Centres (events Oct/Nov 2026).
- AI projects: AI focus documented (AI tutorials, AI application projects, events Oct/Nov 2026).
- Website & online shop: E-commerce/online topics (e.g. e-invoicing webinar) covered as training; no website build costs.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs and skilled crafts nationwide; services usually free and open to all sectors
Requirements
- SME/craft business with a digitalisation/AI question; register with the relevant centre/service
What is funded
- Information events, information material, demonstrators
- Courses/webinars/online workshops/AI tutorials
- AI application projects and case studies (e.g. AI knowledge management, image recognition/intralogistics, AI inventory planning)
How to apply
- Choose a suitable centre/topic (e.g. Augsburg Centre for Bavaria)
- Book a free service (information, training, AI project request)
- Implement with the centre
Combining with other funding
Good preparation for subsequent investment/consultancy funding (e.g. KfW, BAFA).
Transferstelle Cybersicherheit
Funded by the BMWE (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy) (transfer office)
Free initial consultations (CYBERDialog), CYBERsicher check, emergency help, ISMS workshop, events (e.g. Cyber Security Month Oct 2026)
Active free services incl. the October 2026 monthly programme (situation report 05 Oct 2026).
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs, startups, craft businesses nationwide
Requirements
- SME/startup/craft business with a cyber-security need; book via the transfer office
What is funded
- Initial consultations/status reviews, attack prevention, emergency help, ISMS setup, expert knowledge (incl. AI-powered cyber attacks, CRA)
How to apply
- Book a CYBERsicher check/initial consultation
- Implement the recommendations (possibly with funded follow-on services)
- In case of an incident: request emergency help
Unternehmensberatung KMU
Federal Government (formerly BMWK, now BMWE), Lower Saxony coordination point: NBank; administration: BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control)
Grant of 50% (max. €1,750) or 80% in the Lüneburg region (max. €2,800), based on max. €3,500 consultancy costs; max. 2 consultations/year, 5 per guideline period
Federal programme, in Lower Saxony via the NBank coordination point; rates apply nationwide (Lüneburg region 80%). Check validity of the guideline with BAFA.
- AI projects: AI introduction/strategy consultancy eligible as business consultancy.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs and freelancers (excluding consultancy/tax/legal professions themselves, no non-profits/public enterprises). In Lower Saxony particularly relevant for the Lüneburg region with the 80% rate (new federal states + Lüneburg/Trier); rest of Lower Saxony 50%.
Requirements
- Timely application before consultancy
- Consultancy as one-to-one consultancy by an external consultant
What is funded
- External one-to-one consultancy on economic/financial/personnel/organisational matters (including digital consultancy)
- Specialist consultancy (skilled workers, sustainability and others)
Not eligible
- Predominantly legal/tax/insurance topics, expert reports, brokerage activities
- Consultancy receiving other public grants
- Consultancy/tax/legal professions as advisees
How to apply
- Consultation/application via the BAFA application platform (NBank coordination point)
- Consulting contract, implementation (young companies have 6 months)
- Settlement/proof of use via the coordination point
Combining with other funding
No combination with other public grants for the same consultancy.
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
Digital-Tech-to-Product (DTTP)
Bundesministerium für Digitales und Staatsmodernisierung – BMDS (Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation) (project management by TÜV Rheinland + VDI/VDE-IT); advice at dttp@tuv.com, easy-Online
Grant for product-oriented innovation projects in digital technologies up to TRL 8 (after PoC approx. TRL 4/5); market pull and digital sovereignty as criteria
1st funding call ended 11 Oct 2026; further calls announced for the coming months.
- AI projects: AI applications explicitly listed as a subject.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Startups and SMEs as drivers of transfer; single or collaborative projects
Requirements
- Proof of concept available; market/societal problem + business-model perspective; explain technology stack/sovereignty contribution
- Outline via easy-Online for the call
What is funded
- Further development of digital solutions (software, IT infrastructure, data spaces/cloud, AI applications) to pre-commercial market readiness
- Priorities per funding call
How to apply
- Await the funding call
- Submit an outline via easy-Online (outline template, SME declaration)
- Selection based on criteria (business model/market, sovereignty, innovativeness, implementation); full application
KMU-innovativ
BMFTR (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) (project management per technology field)
Grant for high-risk R&D single-company/collaborative projects (funding rate per call; so far €2.4 billion for 3,100 projects)
Cut-off dates of 15 Apr and 15 Oct; selection usually within 3 months. Figures as of Dec 2025 (17,700 outlines, 5,000 SMEs).
- AI projects: AI research and development via the ICT technology field.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs (incl. first-time applicants); consortia with academia/research institutions
Requirements
- SMEs; project outline by the cut-off dates of 15 Apr/15 Oct; two-stage process
- Simplified credit check for own contributions of <€100,000/year
What is funded
- Cutting-edge research in technology fields incl. ICT, electronics/autonomous driving/HPC, photonics/quantum, future of value creation, climate/energy, bioeconomy, medical technology
- AI projects via the ICT field
How to apply
- Free guidance hotline (0800 26 23 009)
- Submit a project outline by the cut-off date
- If assessed positively, submit a full application; approval usually within 3 months
Website & online shop: Pure website/shop development is not cutting-edge research.
DATIpilot
BMFTR (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space) – Deutsche Agentur für Transfer und Innovation, DATI (German Agency for Transfer and Innovation)
Grant; innovation sprints with a max. 18-month term; innovation communities up to 4 years
BMFTR page describes the modules, but no current call verified (please check cut-off dates/open calls on the DATI website).
- AI projects: AI transfer projects (research into application) are a good fit; no pure AI rollout advice.
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Actors from universities, research, business and society; innovation sprints: single/collaborative projects with max. 2 partners (company participation possible)
Requirements
- Transfer idea with societal benefit; note the applicable guideline/calls
What is funded
- Transfer of research results into application (innovation sprints, simplified application)
- Innovation communities (co-creative transfer cooperations)
How to apply
- Check the call/funding guideline
- Submit a simplified application (sprint) or community bid
- Implementation with monitoring/learning support
EU programmes17
AI Factories / EuroHPC
EuroHPC JU (EU + Member States); Germany: FZ Jülich (JAIF), HLRS Stuttgart (HammerHAI)
Free/tailored access to supercomputing (including JUPITER exascale) plus support for SMEs/startups
19 AI Factories + 13 Antennas active; EuroHPC access calls running (including AI/Data-Intensive, Fast Lane/Playground continuously open)
- AI projects: Core offering for SME AI: computing time, foundation-model catalogue and lifecycle advice; NVIDIA Inception cooperation (Oct 2026)
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Explicitly SMEs and startups, plus industry, academia and the public sector
Requirements
- SME/startup or industry player with an AI project; depending on the access call, research/administration also eligible
- Application with project description; priority for trustworthy AI within the meaning of the AI Act
What is funded
- HPC/AI computing time (training, fine-tuning, inference of AI models)
- Advice, training, data and MVP development around AI
How to apply
- Contact an AI Factory (JAIF Jülich or HammerHAI Stuttgart) or use a EuroHPC access call
- Apply for computing time/support (some with rolling cut-offs)
- Receive free support (advice, training, data)
Combining with other funding
Can be combined with R&D funding (e.g. Horizon, EIC)
Website & online shop: No website funding; infrastructure and know-how access
Apply AI
European Commission
No dedicated funding programme, but an umbrella strategy: mobilises approx. €1 billion from Horizon Europe, Digital Europe and others (sectoral flagships, Frontier AI Initiative)
Strategy active since 08 Oct 2025; implementation via ongoing calls (including bridging calls with Apply-AI topics, deadlines Feb/Mar 2027)
- AI projects: Core objective: AI adoption in 10+ strategic sectors plus cross-cutting SMEs/skills
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Companies of all sizes and public administrations; SMEs as a priority target group for adoption support
Requirements
- Participation via the underlying calls (DIGITAL, Horizon, EIC)
- Connect via an EDIH / Apply AI Alliance as an entry point
What is funded
- Sectoral AI pilots (health, mobility, manufacturing, energy, agriculture, public administration)
- AI skills development (AI for business Master, Entrepreneurs Lab)
- Test-before-invest via EDIHs as Experience Centres
How to apply
- Identify sectoral flagship calls in the work programme
- Get advice via an EDIH or NCP
- Apply under the respective programme
Combining with other funding
Strategy bundles existing programmes
Website & online shop: Strategy level, no direct website funding
Cascade Funding
EU projects (Horizon Europe / Digital Europe), EU co-financing
Small amounts typically €30,000–200,000 per SME, often as a lump sum, partly 100% (e.g. NACHIP/I3FLOAT/BattleVerse up to €60,000 each; AID4SME up to €200,000)
Continuously new calls; Q4 2026 examples: NACHIP (09 Nov 2026), I3FLOAT (10 Nov 2026), BattleVerse (30 Nov 2026), Innowwide Call 5 (01 Oct–01 Dec 2026)
- AI projects: Many AI/robotics calls (AID4SME, AI-BOOST, TEF calls)
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Primarily individual SMEs/startups without a consortium requirement; rules differ per call
Requirements
- Eligibility criteria differ per open call; usually based in the EU/associated countries
- Apply directly to the EU project (not to the European Commission)
What is funded
- Testing/validation of AI, digital and robotics solutions
- Market studies (Innowwide), pilots and challenge participation
How to apply
- Find a suitable open call (Funding & Tenders Portal Cascade funding filter, cascadefunding.eu, NCP pages)
- Check the Guide for Applicants, submit a short application
- If selected, sign a contract with the consortium and implement within months
Combining with other funding
De minimis relevant; cumulation governed per call
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
Digital Europe
European Commission (DG CNECT), ECCC for cybersecurity
Grant, usually 50% funding rate (higher depending on call); total 2021–2027 budget over €8.1 billion
2025–2027 work programme running; ongoing calls incl. cybersecurity (until 14 Jan 2027), GenAI4EU pilots (Q1 2027)
- AI projects: Core programme for applied AI: GenAI4EU (approx. €700 million incl. Horizon/EIC), Apply-AI pilots, AI skills academies
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Companies of all sizes, administrations, research institutions; SME participation welcome
Requirements
- Legal entity based in the EU/EEA or associated states
- Depending on the call, a consortium from at least 3 countries required
- Exclusion of security-relevant third-country control (Art. 12(5)/(6))
What is funded
- AI rollout and testing (GenAI4EU, Apply-AI pilots)
- Cybersecurity (dedicated ECCC calls)
- Digital skills/training
- EDIHs, data spaces, digital identity
Not eligible
- Basic research (Horizon Europe covers that)
How to apply
- Check the 2025–2027 work programme and choose a suitable call
- Register in the EU Funding & Tenders Portal (PIC number)
- Form a consortium (depending on the call) and apply online
Combining with other funding
Cumulation with other EU funds limited; usually no double funding of the same costs
Website & online shop: No direct website funding; e-commerce/digitalisation only within larger projects
EDIH
European Commission (Digital Europe Programme), co-financing by federal/state governments
Services for SMEs usually free or heavily discounted (de minimis relevant)
Second runtime since early 2026, 16 EDIHs active in Germany, services secured until end of 2028
- AI projects: AI focus strengthened since 2026: all EDIHs offer AI services; bridge to AI Factories and TEFs
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs as per the EU definition, small mid-caps, startups; no specific headcount limit published
Requirements
- SME, small mid-cap, startup or public administration
- Based in the EU; note the hub's regional remit
What is funded
- Test before invest (trying out technology)
- Digitalisation/AI advice and training
- Support with funding applications
- Networking with the ecosystem/investors
Not eligible
- Direct investment grants (no hardware/software financing)
How to apply
- Find a suitable EDIH in the EDIH catalogue (filter country: Germany)
- Contact the EDIH directly (initial meeting, digital maturity assessment)
- Sign a service agreement; service delivered on site/online
Combining with other funding
No funding in the classic sense; can be combined with other funding
Website & online shop: No website funding; but advice on digital business models possible
Horizon Cluster 4
European Commission / HaDEA
Grant of 100% of eligible costs (RIA/CSA), 70% for for-profit partners in Innovation Actions
2026–2027 work programme adopted; 2027 calls open Oct/Nov 2026, deadlines incl. 02 Feb 2027 and 18 Mar 2027
- AI projects: AI/robotics/data topics, GenAI4EU calls, frontier-AI topics (Apply AI); TRL range from early to near-pilot
Requirements & details
Who can apply
All company sizes plus research; valorisation and infrastructure topics especially for SMEs
Requirements
- Consortium with at least 3 independent partners from 3 EU/associated states (standard case)
- TRL and impact requirements per topic; SMEs can coordinate
What is funded
- Industrial R&D (Made in Europe, processes, materials)
- Key digital technologies, AI/robotics, data, photonics
- Pilot lines, valorisation, access to technology infrastructures for startups/SMEs
Not eligible
- Pure product development without an R&D component
- Market launch/sales
How to apply
- Choose a topic in the 2026–2027 work programme (single-stage or two-stage)
- Advice from NKS DIT (nks-dit.de, free) and partner search (brokerage events)
- Apply via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal
Combining with other funding
Combination with national funds possible, no double funding of the same costs
Website & online shop: No website funding
InvestEU
EU (budget guarantee), EIF/EIB Group; implementation via banks, guarantee banks and promotional banks
No direct funding, but guarantees/risk relief for bank loans from your bank (e.g. L-Bank: 70% default guarantee, €2–5.25 million, up to 12 years); EIF products: SME Competitiveness, Innovation & Digitalisation and others
Ongoing via financial intermediaries; EIF calls for intermediaries partly until 30 Jun 2027
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs and small mid-caps; also start-ups; in Germany e.g. L-Bank InvestEU guarantee (innovative, digital, sustainable projects)
Requirements
- Creditworthy project, application via your bank/promotional bank
- Any missing collateral is replaced by a guarantee-bank/EIF guarantee
What is funded
- Investment and working-capital loans (incl. digitalisation/AI projects)
- Leasing and subordinated loans depending on the EIF product
Not eligible
- Pure refinancing without a funding purpose, depending on the product
How to apply
- Talk to your bank, clarify the KfW/promotional-bank programme and InvestEU backing
- If applicable, involve your federal state's guarantee bank
- Sign the loan agreement with your bank
Combining with other funding
Can be combined with development loans (e.g. L-Bank InvestEU combined guarantee 70)
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
KI-Reallabore
EU (AI Act Arts. 57-58); Germany: Federal Network Agency (market surveillance authority, single point of contact) + competent authorities
No money, but regulatory support: supervised testing, guidance and legal certainty; access free for SMEs
Service Desks active (EU + Federal Network Agency since 2025/2026); real-world labs being established (deadline 02 Aug 2026 and 2027 respectively under the Digital Omnibus), participation applications afterwards
- AI projects: Directly for AI providers: simplified compliance, reduced certification costs, templates
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Providers (potential) of AI systems; SMEs/startups with priority free access
Requirements
- AI system within the scope of the AI Act; selection criteria per real-world lab
- Application to the respective national real-world lab once established
What is funded
- Development/training/validation of innovative AI systems in a controlled environment
- Conformity assessment for high-risk AI, transparency obligations and risk management
How to apply
- Use the AI Act Service Desk (EU) or the AI Service Desk of the Federal Network Agency for initial information
- Request participation in an AI real-world lab at the competent authority
Combining with other funding
Complements TEFs, EDIHs and notified bodies
Website & online shop: Regulatory support, no website funding
SME Fund
European Commission, implemented by EUIPO
Vouchers: IP Scan up to 90% (max. approx. €1,620), trade marks/designs 75% (€700), national patents up to €1,000 / EPO up to €2,500, plant variety rights up to €1,500, CIGI up to €2,000; max. approx. €7,320 per SME
SME Fund 2026: 02 Feb–04 Dec 2026; Voucher 1+2 (IP Scan, trade marks/designs) budget exhausted; Voucher 3 (patents), 4 (varieties), 5 (CIGI) still open
- AI projects: Patent protection for AI/software inventions usable (Voucher 3)
- Website & online shop: Indirect: trade-mark protection for web/shop presence (trade mark/design) eligible; no website creation
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs based in the EU (and Ukraine), incl. solo self-employed; reapplication possible
Requirements
- SME definition (max. 250 employees, max. €50 million turnover)
- Apply for and activate the voucher BEFORE commissioning/applying
What is funded
- Trade-mark, design, patent and plant-variety-right applications and searches
- IP Scan advice via national offices
Not eligible
- Costs incurred before voucher approval (no retroactive effect)
How to apply
- Online application to EUIPO (SME Fund)
- Wait for approval, activate the voucher
- Commission the IP service, claim reimbursement with invoice
TEF
EU (Digital Europe) + Member States; German nodes include Charité (TEF-Health)
4 TEFs (Health, Manufacturing/AI-MATTERS, AgriFood, Smart Cities) €40–60 million each; SMEs: discounted test services, cascade funding typically €50,000–200,000
TEF-Health Call #2 open (ongoing, discounted services); AI-MATTERS manufacturing cascades ongoing
- AI projects: Core purpose: bringing AI from the lab into real-world use (incl. health, manufacturing, agrifood)
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Technology providers (SMEs) with AI solutions TRL 6–8; TEF-Health: SMEs from the EU/EEA
Requirements
- AI product with sufficient maturity (TRL 6+)
- Application to the respective TEF (e.g. TEF-Health call portal) with matching procedure
What is funded
- Testing/validation of AI/robotics solutions in real-world environments (clinic, factory, field)
- Certification/regulatory preparation (AI-Act proximity)
How to apply
- Choose a TEF and service catalogue (tefhealth.eu, AI-MATTERS and others)
- Submit an application/matching request
- Use test services at a discount or receive a cascade voucher
Combining with other funding
Can be combined with EDIH services and AI Factories
Website & online shop: Technology testing, no website funding
De minimis aid: counts towards your de minimis ceiling (EUR 300,000 within three years).
28DIGITAL
EIT / 28DIGITAL (Knowledge and Innovation Community, EU)
Venture Incubation: €5,000 growth package + up to €25,000 final prize (against 5% equity via SAFE); Co-Creation Accelerator with FSTP
VIP round 2026 (10 Apr–09 Jun 2026) closed; Co-Creation Accelerator 2026–2027 with cut-offs including Dec 2026 / May 2027
- AI projects: AI/deep-tech start-ups are a core target group (e.g. LLM-BRIDGE incubator call)
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Founding teams (at least 2 people) and startups (founded 2025 or later); Germany eligible
Requirements
- Prototype/PoC/near-MVP in a digital deep-tech domain
- Team of at least 2 people; based in an eligible country (Germany included)
What is funded
- MVP development, mentoring, market validation and demo day
- Ecosystem access and investor contacts
How to apply
- Check the call document (28digital.eu / EIT Opportunities)
- Submit the online application
- Bootcamp + 12-week incubation, demo day
DEP Cybersecurity
ECCC (European Cybersecurity Competence Centre) / European Commission
Call CYBER-11 (€96 million total): including AI4SME €20 million (AI-supported cybersecurity for SMEs), NCC €11 million
Call DIGITAL-ECCC-2027-DEPLOY-CYBER-11: 01 Sep 2026 to 14 Jan 2027 (5:00 pm CET)
- AI projects: AI-supported security tools (CYBERAI/AI4SME) are at the core of the calls
Requirements & details
Who can apply
SMEs as users and providers; NCCs and the competence community as support
Requirements
- Consortium application (observe security requirements, Art. 12(5) DEP Regulation)
- Application via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal
What is funded
- Introduction/rollout of AI-supported security tools at SMEs (risk, detection, incident response)
- NCC activities, awareness, skills and startup growth
How to apply
- Check the call document DEP CYBER-11, choose a topic
- If applicable, contact the German NCC / NCP
- Submit the application by the deadline
Website & online shop: Focus on IT security, no website funding
EIC Accelerator
European Innovation Council (EISMEA/EIC Fund)
Blended finance: grant of up to €2.5 million + EIC Fund equity; grant-only also possible
Short applications ongoing; 2026 full-application cut-offs: 07 Jan / 04 Mar / 06 May / 08 Jul / 02 Sep / 04 Nov 2026; 2027 dates not yet published
- AI projects: AI/deep-tech startups are a core target group; 2026 challenges incl. critical raw materials, climate adaptation; GenAI4EU challenge was 2025
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Startups, SMEs, spin-offs; in exceptional cases small mid-caps (<499 employees)
Requirements
- A single startup/SME (possibly small mid-cap) with a breakthrough innovation
- TRL 6+, scalable business model; single application possible, no consortium needed
What is funded
- Innovation activities TRL 6–8 (product development, pilots, validation)
- Scale-up and market launch (via EIC Fund equity)
How to apply
- Submit a short application (short proposal) at any time (monthly batch review)
- If GO: submit a full application by a cut-off date
- Remote evaluation, possibly jury interview in Brussels
Combining with other funding
Fast Track from Horizon projects, plug-in from national programmes possible
Website & online shop: No website funding
EIC Pathfinder/Transition
European Innovation Council (EISMEA)
Pathfinder: up to approx. €4 million (100%); Transition: up to €2.5 million (100%), 2026 budget: €166/96/100 million
Pathfinder Open 2026 closed (12 May 2026, success rate approx. 2%); Pathfinder Challenges open until 28 Oct 2026; Transition 2026 closed (16 Sep 2026)
- AI projects: 2026 Pathfinder challenge incl. DeepRAP (trustworthy cognitive AI systems); Advanced Innovation Challenge physical AI/robotics
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Research institutions, universities, SMEs, startups; not pure company funding
Requirements
- Pathfinder Open: consortium of at least 3 partners; challenges also allow single applicants
- Transition: only based on existing EIC/FET/Pathfinder results with IP evidence
What is funded
- Early technology development TRL 1–4 (Pathfinder)
- Validation and business plan TRL 3–6 (Transition)
How to apply
- Check whether a precursor project exists (Transition) or form a consortium (Pathfinder)
- Apply via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal
- Evaluation, plus a jury interview for Transition
Combining with other funding
Booster grants, Fast Track to the Accelerator
Website & online shop: No website funding; basic and validation research
Eurostars
Eureka network + EU (Horizon Europe); Germany: BMFTR (Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space), support by DLR Project Management Agency
Germany: grant up to 50% for SMEs, up to 100% for universities/research (with SME participation); max. €500,000 for all German partners per project
Call 11 closed (10 Sep 2026); Call 12: 17 Dec 2026 to 04 Mar 2027 (2:00 pm CET)
- AI projects: AI/software R&D well suited as a market-oriented collaborative project
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Research-intensive SMEs as consortium leaders; with a German SME also universities/research institutions; large companies in Germany receive no funding
Requirements
- Consortium of at least 2 partners from 2 Eurostars countries, led by an SME
- SMEs bear at least 50% of the R&D costs; civil purpose; market readiness approx. 2 years after completion
- Contact with the Eurostars office (DLR-PT) recommended before applying
What is funded
- Market-oriented R&D up to prototype (all technologies, incl. software/AI)
- Personnel costs and material costs of the R&D share
Not eligible
- Market launch/sales
How to apply
- Eurostars platform application by the deadline (eurekanetwork.org + myeurekaproject.org)
- International evaluation (approx. 7 months to approval)
- National funding (BMFTR) after selection
Website & online shop: Only the R&D share; pure website/shop projects not suitable
GenAI4EU
European Commission (DG CNECT, HaDEA, EIC)
Part of various calls (Horizon, DIGITAL, EIC); total volume approx. €700 million; e.g. Booster Challenges approx. €15 million per project
Horizon 2025 calls closed; DIGITAL pilot screening closed (01 Oct 2026); sectoral Apply-AI tests in live operation planned Q1 2027
- AI projects: Flagship initiative for generative AI made in Europe
Requirements & details
Who can apply
AI developers (startups/scale-ups), industry, research and the public sector; mostly consortia
Requirements
- Depending on the call, consortium from at least 3 countries or challenge participation
- English-language application via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal
What is funded
- Generative AI models and applications (manufacturing, robotics, health, energy, agriculture, mobility, media)
- Open AI ecosystems, model adaptation and pilots
How to apply
- Check the GenAI4EU overview page and work programmes
- Choose a suitable call (Horizon cluster, DIGITAL, EIC)
- If applicable, use the brokerage platform (b2match) to build a consortium
- Submit the application online
Combining with other funding
No double funding of the same costs
Website & online shop: No website funding; focus on generative AI
InvestAI
European Commission, EuroHPC JU, EIB/EIF
Mobilisation target €200 billion; €20 billion InvestAI facility; up to 7 AI Gigafactories (Lot 1: up to €100 million + €400 million, Lot 2: up to €200 million + €800 million, incl. national co-financing)
Gigafactories tender running, closes 12 Nov 2026; award early 2027, construction starts 2027
- AI projects: Creates future training/inference capacity for European AI models
Requirements & details
Who can apply
Industry consortia/operators; SMEs benefit indirectly via access to computing capacity
Requirements
- Call for tender to operator consortia with Member State participation
- SMEs: no direct application; later access via AI Factories / EuroHPC
What is funded
- Building AI gigacomputing centres (training/inference of frontier models)
- Access for startups, SMEs, industry and academia to capacities
Not eligible
- Direct SME project grants (use AI Factories/EuroHPC access for that instead)
How to apply
- For operators: review the EuroHPC JU tender documents, submit a bid
- For SMEs: apply for computing access via an AI Factory (JAIF/HammerHAI)
Website & online shop: Infrastructure programme, no website funding
Research status: 23 October 2026. Funding conditions change frequently – always check the official programme page before applying. No legal or tax advice.
How funding in Germany is structured in 2026
Funding for digitalisation and AI exists at three levels. For most small and medium-sized enterprises it pays to look in exactly this order:
- Federal state: This is where most grants for software, hardware, IT security and digital processes are available, often specifically for small businesses. Many programmes are co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF/EFRE).
- Federal government: Subsidised consulting and coaching, training, KfW development loans, tax-based research funding and free competence centres.
- EU: Free support from the European Digital Innovation Hubs, computing time for AI projects and competitive programmes for innovation and research projects.
An important distinction is the type of funding. A grant does not have to be repaid. A development loan has favourable interest rates and sometimes a repayment subsidy, but must be repaid. Free services do not finance investments, but help you get started, for example with workshops or tests before investing.
Federal programmes: consulting, training, loans and tax benefits
Since “Digital Jetzt” and “go-digital” ended, there is no longer a general federal grant for digitalisation investments. These federal programmes are particularly relevant for digitalisation and AI projects:
- BAFA – funding for business consulting: A grant of 50% (up to €1,750), or 80% in the eastern German states (up to €2,800), towards consulting costs of up to €3,500. Digitalisation and AI consulting is eligible if it concerns management issues. You must apply before the consultation starts; the guideline applies to applications until 31 Dec 2026.
- INQA coaching: 80% of the costs of up to twelve coaching days on digitalisation, AI, work organisation and HR. For SMEs with at least one full-time employee subject to social insurance that have been on the market for at least two years.
- KfW – ERP development loan for digitalisation (511/512): A low-interest loan via your bank, with a grant component in the higher funding tiers. Eligible items include IT equipment, software, IT security, the use of AI and digital business models.
- Training funding from the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit): Grants towards course fees and wages when employees take training of more than 120 hours with an approved provider – including AI training.
- Research allowance (Forschungszulage): Tax-based funding of 25% of eligible research and development costs, 35% for SMEs. It also applies to developing your own AI methods if the project qualifies as R&D.
- Tax depreciation: Computer hardware and software can be depreciated for tax purposes over a useful life of one year. For other movable assets, declining-balance depreciation of up to 30% applies between July 2025 and December 2027. Ask your tax adviser what applies to your company.
- Free services: The Mittelstand-Digital centres offer free workshops, training and practical AI projects. The Transferstelle Cybersicherheit im Mittelstand provides free help with IT security questions.
For research and development projects there is also KMU-innovativ (deadlines on 15 April and 15 October). The Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM) has not been accepting applications since 2026.
State programmes: where most grants are
Each federal state has its own programmes with its own rules. Some examples, as of 23 October 2026:
- Bavaria – Digitalbonus: A grant of up to €7,500 (Standard) or up to €30,000 (Plus) for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees. Runs until 31 Dec 2027; the monthly application quota can be used up.
- Baden-Württemberg – Digitalisierungsfinanzierung: The grant version of the Digitalisierungsprämie Plus ended on 30 Jun 2025. Since then, L-Bank offers a development loan with a repayment subsidy.
- North Rhine-Westphalia – MID-Digitalisierung: A 50% grant of up to €15,000. Since 2026 only for developing marketable digital products such as AI applications; due to high demand, places are allocated by lottery.
- Saxony – digitalisation grant: Up to 60% for micro enterprises and up to 50% for small businesses. Since 17 Jul 2026, applications have been suspended in the transition region; applications are still possible in the Leipzig region.
- Thuringia – InnoInvest: Successor to the discontinued Digitalbonus. A tiered grant from €2,500 for projects with an innovative character.
- Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania – AI funding: A 50% grant of up to €50,000 for AI projects in companies with up to 100 employees. AI applications in marketing and sales, such as website chatbots, are explicitly eligible.
- Brandenburg – BIG-Digital: A 50% grant for consulting, implementation and training for innovative digitalisation projects; the guideline applies until 30 Jun 2027.
- Hamburg – Hamburg Digital Check: A 50% grant towards digitalisation consulting, up to €7,500.
Several well-known programmes have ended, including the Digitalprämie Berlin, the Digitalbonus Niedersachsen and the Digitalbonus Thüringen. In Bremen, the “Digitaler Mittelstand KI” funds for 2026 have been used up. In Saxony-Anhalt, the next application round for “Digital Innovation” starts on 16 Nov 2026. The funding finder hides discontinued and paused programmes by default; you can show them with the option below the filters.
EU programmes: free support and competitions
The EU funds digitalisation and AI mainly through programmes where you apply competitively or join a consortium. For most SMEs, the easiest entry point is the free services:
- European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH): Regional contact points with free or heavily discounted services, including testing before investing, training and help with funding applications. There are several EDIHs in Germany, all with a focus on AI.
- AI Factories and EuroHPC: Free access to computing capacity for training and fine-tuning AI models, including advice. Access is by application with a project description.
- Cascade funding: EU projects regularly award smaller grants to individual SMEs and start-ups, often €30,000 to €200,000, for testing AI and digital solutions. A consortium is usually not required.
- SME Fund: Vouchers for trade mark, design and patent applications. In 2026, the vouchers for trade marks and designs have already been used up; patent vouchers are still available.
- EIC Accelerator and Eurostars: For start-ups and research-intensive SMEs with genuinely new innovations. The EIC Accelerator awards grants of up to €2.5 million plus equity, but is highly competitive.
Is a new website eligible for funding?
Companies ask us this question particularly often. The honest answer: a plain company website rarely receives a grant. Many programmes explicitly exclude standard websites, standard online shops and conventional online marketing, for example the Digitalbonus Bayern, BIG-Digital in Brandenburg and “Digitaler Mittelstand KI” in Bremen.
Projects where the website is more than a shop window have better chances:
- Website connected to processes: Online booking, customer portal, connection to inventory management or CRM.
- New digital business model: A platform, an online shop as a new sales channel or digital services. In Thuringia and Saxony, such projects are explicitly eligible.
- AI on the website: A chatbot that qualifies enquiries, automated texts or analysis of customer feedback. The AI funding programme in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania explicitly names such applications.
- Financing through development loans: KfW and state loans often finance website investments as part of a larger digitalisation project.
Select “Website & online shop” in the funding finder to see all programmes in which website projects may qualify according to our research.
Key requirements and pitfalls
- Apply before the project starts: For almost all programmes, signing a contract or accepting a quote already counts as the start of the project. Commission a provider too early and you lose the funding.
- Company size: Many programmes target SMEs as defined by the EU: fewer than 250 employees and a turnover of up to €50 million or a balance sheet total of up to €43 million. Some programmes are only for small businesses with fewer than 50 employees.
- Registered office or site: State programmes require the project to be carried out at a site in the respective federal state.
- De minimis ceiling: Many grants count towards the ceiling of €300,000 within three years.
- Own contribution and pre-financing: Grants usually cover 30% to 60% of the costs. You pay the rest and often pre-finance the project until the grant is paid out.
- Exclusions: Liberal professions, certain sectors and replacement purchases are excluded from some programmes. Check the “Not eligible” list in the funding finder.
- Quotas and deadlines: Some programmes work with monthly quotas, lotteries or deadlines. So plan in a buffer.
How to proceed
- Describe your project: What do you want to digitalise, what is your goal and roughly what will it cost?
- Find suitable programmes: Use the funding finder and check the official programme pages.
- Get advice: Your state development bank, the chamber of commerce (IHK) or chamber of crafts (Handwerkskammer) and the Mittelstand-Digital centres advise free of charge on suitable programmes.
- Get quotes, but do not sign: Many programmes require cost estimates. Only commission work after applying or after approval.
- Apply and collect documents: Keep invoices, proof of payment and project documentation ready for the final report.
Conclusion: first the project, then the programme
Funding is not an end in itself. A digitalisation or AI project makes sense if it would pay off even without a grant – the funding then improves its economics. Start with your federal state, where most grants are, and add subsidised consulting, training and free services from the federal government and the EU.
Website, AI and automation projects can often be planned to fit a funding programme, for example by connecting them to business processes or adding an AI component. If you are planning such a project, we are happy to discuss how it could be structured: Get in touch. We do not replace funding advice; the application remains with you or your advisers.
Related articles: AI automation: benefits and where to start, AI chatbot for website leads and What a business website costs.
Research status: 23 October 2026. All information without guarantee; the guidelines and fact sheets of the funding bodies are authoritative. This article is not legal, tax or funding advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is there still a nationwide grant for digitalisation in Germany in 2026?
There is no longer a nationwide investment grant like the former “Digital Jetzt” programme. At federal level, the main options are the BAFA consulting grant, INQA coaching, KfW development loans, the research allowance (Forschungszulage) and free support such as the Mittelstand-Digital centres. Grants for software, hardware and digital processes now mostly come from the federal states.
Is a new website eligible for funding?
A plain company website or a standard online shop is explicitly excluded from most grant programmes, for example the Digitalbonus Bayern or BIG-Digital in Brandenburg. Your chances are better if the website is closely integrated into business processes, enables a new digital business model or includes AI – for instance under the AI funding programme in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania or the digitalisation grant in Saxony. Development loans, on the other hand, often finance website investments.
Do I have to apply before the project starts?
Yes, for almost all programmes. Signing a contract or accepting a quote usually already counts as the start of the project. So apply before you commission a service provider.
What does de minimis mean?
Many grants are so-called de minimis aid. A company may receive no more than €300,000 of such aid within three years. When applying, you therefore state which de minimis aid you have received in the last three years.
Can I combine several funding programmes?
Often yes, but not for the same costs. A subsidised consultation, a grant for implementation and subsidised staff training, for example, usually combine well. The exact rules are set out in each programme's guidelines; in the funding finder you will find them under “Requirements & details”.