Consulting Services for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises

This funding program targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and freelancers in Baden-Württemberg. Its aim is to strengthen their performance and competitiveness through external consulting and to support business start-ups and company takeovers. Funding is limited to companies with a registered office or branch in Baden-Württemberg and focuses on various sectors.

The program promotes a variety of external consulting services that go beyond mere information dissemination and support companies in their development and adaptation to new competitive conditions. These include conceptual consulting, pilot and initial consultations, energy saving and environmental protection consulting, as well as specific offers for craft businesses. Certain services such as legal or tax consulting, and pure sales activities are excluded from funding.

Funding is provided in the form of grants, the amount of which is based on working days. The grant amounts to 350 Euros per working day. The maximum number of funded working days varies depending on the type of company and the focus of the consultation. For pilot and initial consultations, there is a specific limit.

This funding program is subject to specific legal and administrative conditions, particularly the EU De minimis regulation. There are clear requirements for the qualification and independence of consultants, the duration of consultations, and the necessary documentation. Compliance with these conditions is essential for eligibility.

The application process differs between the coordinating economic organizations that receive funding and the consulted companies. The economic organizations submit formal applications to the Ministry, while the Landeskreditbank handles the disbursement and proof of use. For consulted companies, the first step is to contact an authorized organization or consultant.

The funding program is based on a specific administrative regulation of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs and is subject to further national and European legal frameworks, including the Law on SME Promotion and the EU De minimis Regulation. These regulations ensure the legal foundation and compliance with state aid requirements.