The Prototype Fund is a funding program for independent developers working in Germany on innovative open source software for non-profit purposes. Public-interest technologies are promoted. These include technologies with social added value that put user needs at the center and are freely available, sustainably accessible, and adaptable. The program’s four funding priorities are Civic Tech, Data Literacy, Data Security, and Software Infrastructure.
By 2025, a total of 16 funding rounds will support software projects within the Prototype Fund framework. Projects selected by an expert jury and confirmed by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research receive up to €47,500 over a six-month period, along with coaching and consulting and networking services.
The current application period runs from February 1, 2024 to March 31, 2024. Both individual developers and development teams who work as freelancers or self-employed are eligible to apply. Additionally, all applicants or team members must have registered their residence in Germany.
Prototype Fund: Timeline
Approximately eight weeks after the application deadline, applicants will be notified whether the jury has recommended their project for funding. One person per team receives an invitation to an application workshop. On this day, with the support of program managers, the formal application for public funding is submitted. The project sponsor then submits this to the BMBF, which makes the final decision on funding.
After approval, program participants receive not only financial support during the funding period but also coaching on UX/UI design, project management, and other topics. Additionally, there are regular opportunities for exchange within the funding cohort, such as at the kickoff, in monthly group calls, and bi-weekly updates. At the end of the funding period, all participants present a prototype of their idea at the Demo Day.
