ERP Participation Program

Last updated: 14.6.2025
Equity

The ERP Participation Program by KfW Banking Group supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Germany in strengthening their equity base. It enables the financing of innovations, growth, structural change, and business successions through equity capital provided via private equity firms. This unique indirect funding process through specialized financial partners distinguishes it from other initiatives.

Who is supported: Target Groups and Scope

The ERP Participation Program primarily targets privately owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the commercial sector with their registered office in Germany. It aims to expand their equity base and consolidate their financial situation. Start-ups and companies planning a business succession can also benefit.

What is funded: Project Types and Eligible Measures

The program supports a variety of projects aimed at strengthening the equity base and financial consolidation. These include innovation projects, the development of new products, and measures for business establishment or expansion. Structural change and business successions are also eligible for funding.

Type and Scope of Funding: Financial Parameters

The ERP Participation Program offers equity capital as a financial instrument. The maximum participation amount can be up to 2.5 million Euros in exceptional cases, with the term of the participation generally not exceeding ten years. Private equity firms receive a refinancing loan from KfW for providing the capital.

Conditions and Requirements: Funding Guidelines

Certain legal and administrative conditions must be met for the application and implementation of the funding. These include, among others, regulations on the timing of the participation agreement conclusion, compliance with environmental and social standards, and the collateralization of the refinancing loan. Additionally, special regulations apply regarding the influence of private equity firms on management.

Application Process: Step-by-Step to Funding

The application process for the ERP Participation Program is indirect: companies seeking capital submit their applications to private equity firms. These firms, in turn, apply for a refinancing loan from KfW through a house bank. Certain forms and data lists must be submitted, and the participation agreement must not yet have been concluded at the time of application.

The ERP Participation Program is based on a specific guideline for ERP loans, which regulates the allocation of funds from the ERP special fund for promoting participations in small and medium-sized enterprises. In addition, the General Conditions for the Allocation of ERP Funds and the KfW exclusion list are relevant.

Similar Programs

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#ERP Participation Program#SME Funding#Equity Strengthening#Corporate Finance#Innovation Projects#Business Start-ups#Private Equity Firm#Refinancing Loan#Structural Change#Business Expansion#Rationalization#Cooperations#Commercial Sector#Germany Funding#KfW Program

Funding Overview

Funding Status

Funding Status:

Open

Maximum Amount

Maximum Amount:

2,500,000 €

Open Until

Open Until:

Ongoing

Award Channel

Award Channel:

Demand Driven Scheme

Region

Region:

Germany

Sectors

Sectors:

Other

Application Type

Application Type:

Single Applicant

Funding Stages

Funding Stages:

Product Development, Commercialization, Process Optimization, Implementation, Scaling, Planning, Other

Funding Provider

Program Level:

National

Funding Body:

Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)

Managed By:

KfW Banking Group

Additional Partners:

Guarantee Banks

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