As of now, founders from Bavaria can apply for the 21st round of the funding program Start?Grant! The program is aimed at technology-oriented startups with innovative business models in the field of digitalization. Companies whose founding was no more than two years ago as of the key date of January 9, 2026 can participate.
The goal of the competition is to provide young companies in the early phase with uncomplicated financial stability and to facilitate market entry. Startups should be able to further develop their products and services without having to rely heavily on external financing in the early growth phase.
Funding up to 36,000 euros
Startups selected by a jury receive up to 50 percent of their eligible expenses, but a maximum of 36,000 euros, as a one-time payment. Supported costs include personnel, rent, research and development expenses, as well as expenses for market introduction. The funding runs for one year and is awarded under the De Minimis Regulation.
In addition to financial support, startups can benefit from the support of the Digital Founder Centers in Bavaria. They offer coaching, mentoring, workspaces, and access to a strong network of companies, universities, and research institutions.
Online application in two-stage procedure
The procedure is structured in two stages: In the first round, applicants submit their documents online, and an external jury then evaluates the submitted business models. In the second stage, the selected teams submit their funding application to the responsible government. The funding period begins on April 1, 2026 and ends on March 31, 2027.
The deadline for online applications is January 9, 2026 at 12 noon. Further information about the process and participation conditions can be found on the Gründerland Bavaria website.
Among the winning teams from the previous Start?Grant! round were Liv Healthcare, Ions.bio, and Cambrion. You can find the complete list here.
