The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy has defined the funding conditions for the programmes EXIST start-up grant and research transfer improved.
The changes are intended to further strengthen start-up networks at universities and provide better incentives for parents. To this end, the child allowance for the start-up scholarship will be increased from 100 to 150 euros per month per child for the first time since 2007. Federal Minister of Economics Gabriel:
"We implemented important improvements to EXIST at the end of 2014, which led to higher application numbers and more innovative start-ups. Now, we want to encourage even more women to participate in starting a business through the EXIST program. This additional support can make a significant contribution here."
New incentive bonus should help
Whereas previously only the start-up projects themselves were supported, now a “Incentive bonus” Introduced: Universities will now be able to receive €10,000 for approved start-up projects through the EXIST Start-up Grant program and €20,000 through the EXIST Research Transfer program. The universities and their regional start-up networks advise and support founders in the application process, offer workspace and laboratories, and assist in finding coaches and financing options. These services will now be reinforced by the incentive bonus.
Federal Minister Gabriel:
"With the incentive bonus now introduced for successful project applications, we want to ensure that the start-up networks of universities and research institutions can permanently secure and expand their local consulting and support services."
Further information about the program and the new funding guidelines can be found here.
