Founders from Bavaria can now apply for the 21st round of the funding program. Start? Grant! Apply now! The program is aimed at technology-oriented startups with innovative business models in the field of digitalization. Companies whose founding date is no more than two years prior to the cut-off date of January 9, 2026, are eligible to participate.
The aim of the competition is to provide young companies with uncomplicated financial stability in their initial phase and to facilitate market entry. Startups should be able to further develop their products and services without having to rely heavily on external financing during the early growth phase.
Funding up to 36,000 euros
Startups selected by a jury receive a one-time grant of up to 50 percent of their eligible expenses, with a maximum of €36,000. Eligible costs include personnel, rent, research and development expenses, and market launch costs. The grant runs for one year and is awarded under the de minimis regulation.
In addition to financial support, startups can rely on the assistance of the Digital Startup Centers in Bavaria. These offer coaching, mentoring, workspaces, and access to a strong network of companies, universities, and research institutions.
Online application in a two-stage process
The process 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 relevant government agency. The funding period begins on April 1, 2026, and ends on March 31, 2027.
The deadline for online applications is January 9, 2026 at 12:00 PM. Further information on the process and terms of participation can be found on the Website of Gründerland Bayern to find.
The winning teams of the last Start?Zuschuss! round included Liv Healthcare, Ions.bio and CambrionYou can find the complete list here. here.
