IT Security in Business – Cybersecurity Transfer Office and Focus Projects

This funding program aims to sustainably enhance IT and cybersecurity, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), craft businesses, and start-ups. Primarily, public or non-profit institutions that implement relevant projects are eligible to apply.

The program funds projects that sustainably improve the IT and cybersecurity level of SMEs, craft businesses, and start-ups. This is primarily done through focus projects that convey knowledge and practical skills. The funding is provided as a grant and can cover up to 100 percent of eligible expenses.

The program offers financial support in the form of grants. The funding scope can amount to up to 100 percent of eligible expenses, with a maximum project duration of three years.

Specific conditions apply to the application and project implementation. These include the obligation to operate on a non-economic basis and to make results publicly accessible. For collaborative projects, a cooperation agreement between the partners is required.

The application process is two-stage. First, a project outline is submitted, and upon positive evaluation, an invitation to submit a formal funding application via the DLR's electronic application system follows.

The funding is based on a specific funding announcement by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, which has been amended several times, most recently in April 2025.