Funding for Research and Development Projects and Measures for Technology and Knowledge Transfer in Organic Agriculture and the Food Industry

Research institutions and companies, including SMEs and large enterprises, as well as NGOs and associations based in Germany, can apply for funding for projects in organic agriculture and the food sector. The program aims to improve the efficiency and sustainability of organic production systems, thereby making a significant contribution to societal and social benefits.

The program supports a wide range of research and development projects as well as technology and knowledge transfer in organic agriculture and the food industry. This includes basic research, industrial research, experimental development, and feasibility studies in areas such as crop production, animal husbandry, processing, nutrition, and legal frameworks.

Funding is provided as a grant, with the amount depending on the nature of the project and the economic self-interest, and can cover up to 100% of eligible costs. There are specific funding intensities and thresholds depending on the type of research and company size.

Applicants must demonstrate a significant federal interest in the project, novelty, and a substantial advantage over conventional methods. The overall financing must be secured, and knowledge transfer of research results into practice must be ensured. Furthermore, the applicant's economic circumstances must be sound, and the proper use of funds must be verifiable.

Applications must be submitted in writing and before the start of the project, either within the framework of specific calls for proposals or as initiative sketches for the funding areas published on the BLE websites. Selection is generally made through a competitive process based on content quality.

Funding is based on the BMEL guideline for the promotion of research and development projects in organic agriculture and the food industry, supported by the Federal Budget Code and specific EU state aid regulations. These foundations create the legal framework for program implementation.