Funding for Consulting Services to Support EU Grant Applications – "Horizont Impuls" –
The State of Lower Saxony supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the "Horizont Impuls" program in applying for EU funding measures under Horizon Europe. The goal is to fund external consulting services to facilitate access to European research and innovation funding for Lower Saxon SMEs. This enhances their international competitiveness and participation in European projects.
Who is funded
The "Horizont Impuls" funding program of the State of Lower Saxony targets micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a business establishment in Lower Saxony. The aim is to support these companies in preparing applications for EU direct funding measures under Horizon Europe, especially in Pillars 2 and 3 (EIC Accelerator). This is intended to increase their participation in EU projects and improve their international cooperation capabilities.
What is funded
The program funds external consulting services for the preparation of European project applications within Horizon Europe, Pillar 2, and the EIC Accelerator in Pillar 3. Specific application preparations are supported, while certain internal or already funded services are excluded. Projects must also fall within one of the strength areas of the Lower Saxon Regional Innovation Strategy (RIS3).
Type and Scope of Funding
Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant in the form of co-financing. The funding amount varies depending on the region category and the type of project applied for, with specific maximum amounts per measure. A funding period of up to two years is foreseen.
Conditions and Requirements
The funding is subject to specific conditions, including the need for a suitable EU call for proposals or the successful completion of EIC Accelerator Phase 1. A maximum of three grants per company is possible during the Horizon Europe program duration. Furthermore, strict regulations apply regarding the qualification of service providers and aid regulations (De minimis).
Application Procedure
The application for funding must be submitted via the client portal of Investitions- und Förderbank Niedersachsen (NBank) before the start of the project. The application requires a project outline with specific minimum components, which forms the basis for the eligibility assessment. The granting authority decides on the applications, taking into account assessments from National Contact Points or EIC experts.
Legal Basis
The "Horizont Impuls" funding program is based on a specific guideline from the Lower Saxony Ministry for Economic Affairs, Transport, Building and Digitalisation and is governed by several EU regulations, particularly the Common Provisions Regulation, the Horizon Europe Regulation, and the De minimis Regulation, as well as the General Ancillary Provisions for ERDF/ESF+.
Similar Programs
No similar programs found.
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
Maximum 30,000 € for coordinators, 10,000 € for partner applications, and 15,000 € for EIC Accelerator Stage 2. Funding of up to 40% (MDR) or 60% (TR) of eligible expenditures. Minimum expenditures 5,000 €.
Deadline:
always open
Open Until:
31.12.2029
Award Channel:
Demand Driven Scheme
Region:
Lower Saxony (region categories "more developed region – MDR" and "transition region – TR")
Sectors:
Transportation and Logistics, Healthcare, Energy Production and Supply, Renewable Energy, Agriculture and Agribusiness, Food Processing, Information and Communication Technology, Software Development, Other
Application Type:
Optional Consortium
Funding Stages:
Planning, Feasibility Study, Applied Research, Experimental Development, Prototyping, Product Development, Market Introduction, Scaling, Commercialization
Funding Provider
Program Level:
National
Funding Body:
Lower Saxony Ministry for Economic Affairs, Transport, Building and Digitalisation
Managed By:
Investitions- und Förderbank Niedersachsen (NBank)