InnoRampUp

The InnoRampUp program targets innovative start-ups and young innovative companies based in Hamburg. The goal is to improve the start-up climate, support the creation of innovative companies, and contribute to the creation of future-proof jobs in the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg.

Within the InnoRampUp program, innovative projects that are part of a company formation or company building are funded. The funding is generally not limited to specific economic sectors and can relate to innovative technologies, products, services, or processes that are in the pre-seed and the first phase of company building/growth (seed).

Funding within the InnoRampUp framework is granted as a non-repayable grant. The maximum funding amount is 150,000 Euros per project and can, in exceptional cases, cover up to 100 percent of eligible expenses. Funding is provided in up to three stages, depending on the requested funding volume.

The granting of InnoRampUp funding is subject to specific conditions concerning the innovative content of the project, its location relevance to Hamburg, and the necessity of the funding. Furthermore, financial and legal requirements, including the De minimis regulation, must be observed.

The application process for InnoRampUp is handled by IFB Innovationsstarter GmbH. Applicants submit detailed documents, including a concept or business plan and curricula vitae. The application review includes a pre-selection and a presentation before the awarding committee, before IFB Hamburg makes the funding decision. Following a positive review, disbursement occurs, and finally, a proof of use is submitted.

The InnoRampUp program is based on the "InnoRampUp Funding Guideline for Young Innovative Companies and Start-ups", which has been valid since July 1, 2014. The granting of funding is subject to specific grant and state aid law bases, particularly the Hamburg State Budget Code and the EU De minimis Regulation.