Development of Digital Technologies Open
The BMWK funding program "Development of Digital Technologies" supports pre-competitive research, development, and innovation projects in collaboration between business and science. It aims to advance digital transformation in Germany and Europe by promoting lighthouse projects that demonstrate new digital technologies and applications and accelerate their economic exploitation. The focus is on strengthening the digital sovereignty and competitiveness of German companies, especially SMEs.
Who is Funded
This section describes the target groups and the geographical scope of the "Development of Digital Technologies" funding program. It defines which types of organizations and institutions are eligible to apply and where the funded projects must be carried out. The program generally aims to strengthen Germany's digital sovereignty and competitiveness through innovation promotion in the field of digital technologies.
What is Funded
This section explains the eligible project types and thematic focus areas of the "Development of Digital Technologies" program. It outlines the acceptable maturity levels of projects as well as the categories of eligible and excluded costs, with a strong focus on pre-competitive, application-oriented research and development.
Type and Scope of Funding
This section describes the financial support provided by the "Development of Digital Technologies" program, including the type of financial instrument, maximum funding amounts and rates, and typical durations of funded projects.
Conditions and Requirements
This section outlines the essential rules, regulations, and specific conditions for applicants and grant recipients of the "Development of Digital Technologies" program. It covers application conditions, consortium rules, and other important provisions, including compliance with state aid rules and obligations for project implementation and reporting.
Application Process
This section provides detailed instructions on the application process for the "Development of Digital Technologies" funding program, from preparing documents to submission and evaluation. It also describes how funding decisions are made and communicated to applicants.
Legal Basis
This section describes the fundamental legal and official documents that authorize, establish, and govern the "Development of Digital Technologies" funding program. It identifies the primary source of its legitimacy and important overarching regulations that shape its functioning.
Funding Overview
Maximum Amount:
Up to 50% of eligible costs for companies, up to 100% for universities/research institutions. Max. 15,000,000 € per project.
Open Until:
30.06.2026
Award Channel:
Competitive Tender
Region:
Germany, Switzerland, European Economic Area (EEA)
Sectors:
Information and Communication Technology, Software Development, Green Technology, Research and Development, Agriculture and Agribusiness, Construction and Building Materials, Healthcare, Transportation and Logistics, Energy Production and Supply, Environmental and Climate Protection, Service Sector, Education and Vocational Training
Funding Stages:
Feasibility Study, Applied Research, Experimental Development, Prototyping, Pilot Testing, Product Development, Process Optimization, Market Introduction, Commercialization
Funding Provider
Program Level: National
Funding Body: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)
Managed By: DLR Project Management Agency
Website: DLR Projektträger