Support program

Central Innovation Program for SMEs (ZIM) - Research project (cooperation between companies)

What is supported?

The Central Innovation Program for SMEs (ZIM) is a nationwide, technology- and sector-open funding program to strengthen the innovative power and competitiveness of SMEs. It funds research and development (R&D) projects that lead to the development of innovative products, processes or technical services, enable applicants to carry out market-oriented research and development and involve a significant technical and economic risk.

The R&D cooperation projects variant promotes cooperation between companies and cooperation between companies and research institutions. Cooperation projects can also be carried out jointly with foreign partners (companies and research institutions).

How is the funding provided

The grant is provided as a non-repayable subsidy in relation to the eligible, project-related costs. The maximum amount of eligible costs per company and sub-project is up to EUR 560,000.

The maximum grant amount for an overall project is EUR 3,000,000.

The funding rates are between 30% and 55% (depending on the company). A cooperation premium of 5 to 10% is granted for cooperation with foreign partners.

Research institutions are funded at a rate of 100%.

Who can apply for funding?

The following are eligible to apply for the R&D cooperation projects variant:

• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• other medium-sized companies (less than 1,000 employees) if they cooperate with an SME
• Non-commercial research institutions as cooperation partners for companies

Important to know!

The technological innovation content, correspondingly high technical risks and good market opportunities of the funded R&D projects are essential for approval.

In the run-up to the ZIM R&D project, feasibility can be promoted with a subsidized study.

Following the ZIM R&D project, additional market launch services can also be funded.