Startup and SME Promotion (GuM – Startup and SME Promotion Guideline)

The Hessian Startup and SME Promotion targets a broad spectrum of actors in the Hessian economic area. It supports founders, young companies, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in increasing their performance and competitiveness. In addition, chambers, associations, and institutions, as well as organizations in the cultural and creative industries, are eligible to apply. The funding is limited to projects implemented in Hessen to strengthen the state's economic location.

The Startup and SME Promotion in Hessen includes a variety of measures, from consulting services and projects to strengthen entrepreneurship to targeted digitalization grants and equity capital. The funding subjects are tailored to the specific needs of founders, SMEs, and the cultural and creative industries, with a focus on knowledge transfer, innovation, and market presence.

The Startup and SME Promotion of the State of Hessen offers various forms of financial support, primarily in the form of non-repayable grants and equity capital. The amount of funding varies depending on the funding area and the type of measure, with specific funding rates and maximum amounts defined.

The Hessian Startup and SME Promotion is linked to various legal and administrative conditions that applicants and beneficiaries must comply with. These include, among others, the refinancing prohibition, compliance with aid rules such as the De minimis Regulation and the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER), as well as specific requirements for overall financing and proof of fund utilization.

The application process for the Hessian Startup and SME Promotion is primarily one-stage and requires the submission of complete documents before the start of the project. The examination and decision on eligibility are carried out by the respective competent granting authority, whereby transparency regarding the project objectives and results is a central element.

The Startup and SME Promotion of the State of Hessen is based on a specific guideline and is legitimized by overarching laws and European aid regulations. These legal bases ensure conformity with national and European regulations and form the framework for program implementation.