Individual Company Innovation and Technology Funding Program (InnoTop) – ISB Programs InnoTop and Innovation Voucher

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Introduction

Who is Funded?

This program supports commercial enterprises with an operational base in Rhineland-Palatinate in carrying out highly innovative research and development projects. The funding aims to reduce the high implementation risk and strengthen the competitiveness of Rhineland-Palatinate companies, especially by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small mid-cap companies (SmallMidCaps).

What is Funded?

The program supports highly innovative research and development projects that involve a significant implementation risk. This includes innovation vouchers for external R&D contracts, feasibility studies, and internal R&D projects for the development of new or significantly improved products, processes, and services, including special incentives for climate protection projects.

Type and Scope of Funding

Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant, the amount of which depends on the respective funding module, company size, and the innovation level of the project. Specific maximum amounts per project are set, and a combination of funding modules is possible under certain conditions.

Conditions and Requirements

Specific conditions apply to the application and implementation of funded projects. These include criteria for innovation level, economic exploitability, cooperation rules, and compliance with aid regulations such as the De minimis Regulation and the General Block Exemption Regulation.

Application Procedure

Applications for funding are to be submitted to the Investment and Structure Bank of Rhineland-Palatinate (ISB). Especially for ERDF funds, applications are submitted electronically via the online customer portal. The ISB may involve experts for the assessment of applications, especially for complex R&D projects and climate protection projects.

Legal Basis

Funding is based on the Administrative Regulation for the Individual Company Innovation and Technology Funding Program Rhineland-Palatinate (InnoTop) and is complemented and regulated by various state and European budgetary and aid regulations, as well as specific ERDF regulations and programs.