Networking Activities between Universities and Companies (ESF+ 2021–2027)

This program primarily targets Bavarian universities as project sponsors, which establish networks with at least ten companies, predominantly SMEs. The funded projects must aim at knowledge transfer and the qualification of employees in Bavaria. Funding is geographically limited to Bavaria.

Targeted training and further education measures as well as knowledge transfer activities within networks between universities and companies are funded. The focus is on Bavaria's innovation priorities such as mobility and digitalization. Funding is aimed at qualifying employees.

The program grants subsidies of up to 40% of the eligible costs. Project sponsors must contribute at least 10% of their own funds. Projects generally have a duration of three years, with the possibility of extension under certain conditions. The total eligible costs of a project must be at least EUR 200,000.

For successful funding, certain prerequisites regarding the project sponsor, network composition, project content, and the fulfillment of indicators for knowledge transfer and network meetings must be observed. These include the reliability of the project sponsor, a minimum network scope, and compliance with EU legal requirements and budgetary provisions.

Applications for the funding of networking activities between universities and companies are submitted exclusively electronically via the online portal ESF Bavaria 2021. A preliminary project inquiry is possible at any time, followed by a potential application submission after the preliminary inquiry has been approved by the responsible ministry.

The funding is based on European regulations, particularly concerning the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and common provisions for EU funds, as well as Bavarian budgetary and administrative law. These comprehensive regulations define the framework for the implementation and management of the program.