EXIST Business Start-up Grant
Administered by Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs (BMWK)
About this grant
EXIST Business Start-up Grant supports the preparation of knowledge-based and technology-oriented business start-ups from universities and research institutions.
Key facts
Eligibility requirements
All of the following criteria must be met:
- Scientists, graduates, students from German universities
- Business idea must be innovative and technology-based
- Must be affiliated with a university or research institution
- Team of up to 3 founders
What the funding covers
- Living expenses during preparation phase
- Material costs up to €30,000
- Coaching and mentoring
- Patent and IP protection
How to apply
- 1Contact university's start-up support office
- 2Submit application through university's EXIST coordinator
- 3Include business plan and team details
- 4Two-stage evaluation process
Application tips
Grant details are sourced from official public databases and reviewed weekly. Eligibility criteria, funding amounts, and deadlines may change without notice. Always confirm details on the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs (BMWK) website before applying.
Ready to put this grant to work?
RaftLabs helps established businesses turn funding into working software, loyalty apps, and AI tools.
Talk to RaftLabs →Other grants in Germany
More funding opportunities that may match your business
go-digital Programme
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs (BMWK)
Support for SMEs to adopt digital technologies through authorised consulting firms. Covers up to 50% of consulting costs.
Digitalbonus Bayern
Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs
Grants for Bavarian SMEs to invest in digital technologies, IT security, and digitally-driven process improvements.
NRW Digitalisation Vouchers
NRW Ministry for Economic Affairs
Vouchers for North Rhine-Westphalian SMEs and skilled trades to implement digital solutions and improve IT security.