Founding and SME Promotion (GuM) – Projects to Strengthen Entrepreneurial Readiness, Increase Competitiveness, and Improve Entrepreneurial Qualification
The State of Hessen supports projects within the framework of the Founding and SME Promotion (GuM) to enhance entrepreneurial readiness and improve entrepreneurial qualification. The program, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), targets founders, SMEs, and the cultural and creative industries. It offers grants for consultations, digitalization measures, events, and equity capital to sustainably strengthen Hessen as a business location.
Who is Funded: Target Groups and Regional Focus
The Founding and SME Promotion (GuM) in Hessen is aimed at a wide range of actors who carry out projects to strengthen entrepreneurial readiness and entrepreneurial qualification. These include chambers, associations, municipal institutions, and business-related associations and institutions. Regionally, the focus is clearly on Hessen to specifically strengthen the state's economy.
What is Funded: Content and Activities
The program funds a wide range of activities aimed at improving entrepreneurial readiness and entrepreneurial qualification in Hessen. These include consultations, events, competitions, and digitalization measures. Eligible expenditures include personnel and material costs, while own contributions and certain costs are excluded.
Type and Scope of Funding
The Founding and SME Promotion in Hessen offers various forms of financial support, primarily as a non-repayable grant, but also as equity capital. Funding rates can reach up to 90 percent of eligible expenditures, with specific maximum amounts and rates applying to certain funding areas.
Conditions and Requirements
For the Founding and SME Promotion in Hessen, specific conditions apply regarding application, state aid law, and budgeting. Special attention is paid to the prohibition of refinancing and the regulations for De minimis aid or GBER exemptions.
Application Process: Step by Step to Funding
The application process for Founding and SME Promotion is a single-stage process and requires the submission of funding applications before the project begins. The granting authority examines eligibility and makes the decision. The statement of use after project completion is crucial for disbursement.
Legal Basis of Founding and SME Promotion
The Founding and SME Promotion in Hessen is based on the Guideline of the State of Hessen for Founding and SME Promotion (GuM). It is embedded in national budgetary laws and European state aid regulations that ensure compatibility with the internal market.
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Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
Up to 1,500,000 EUR Gross Grant Equivalent (GGE), varying by funding type and object (max. 90% of eligible expenses for grants)
Deadline:
always open
Open Until:
31.12.2031
Award Channel:
Demand Driven Scheme
Region:
Hessen (Germany)
Sectors:
Information and Communication Technology, Software Development, Creative Industries, Research and Development, Environmental and Climate Protection, Service Sector, Other
Beneficiaries:
Start-up founders, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), liberal professions, cultural and creative industries
Application Type:
Optional Consortium
Funding Stages:
Planning, Market Introduction, Scaling, Commercialization, Process Optimization, Product Development
Funding Provider
Program Level:
Regional
Funding Body:
Hessian Ministry of Economics, Energy, Transport, Housing and Rural Development
Managed By:
Wirtschafts- und Infrastrukturbank Hessen (WIBank), Beteiligungs-Managementgesellschaft Hessen mbH (BMH), HA Hessen Agentur GmbH
Additional Partners:
Universities and their institutes
Website: