Funding for Startups from Saarland Universities

This funding program targets Saarland universities and technology transfer offices that support startup activities. The goal is to strengthen entrepreneurial spirit and increase the number of knowledge-based business startups in Saarland by addressing students, graduates, and staff of universities and research institutes.

The program supports a variety of measures to assist founders and young companies from the university environment. This includes consulting and qualification offers in all startup phases, as well as support for already established young companies closely linked to universities and research institutions. The focus is on developing entrepreneurial skills and exploring new business ideas.

Funding is provided in the form of a non-repayable grant, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The grant is awarded as co-financing and can amount to a maximum of 50 percent of the total eligible expenditure, with funds being limited.

Specific criteria apply to funding, ensuring its contribution to startup intensity in Saarland. Regulations regarding project start and end dates, as well as the cumulation of funding, must be observed. Special rules for de minimis aid and the applicability of the ERDF framework guideline are also relevant.

The application procedure requires the submission of complete documents, including a detailed project description and a financing plan. Applicants must also agree to the disclosure of data to various European and national bodies and the publication of certain funding data.

The funding is based on the 'Guideline for the Promotion of Startups from Saarland Universities' and is legitimized by EU regulations, particularly within the framework of the ERDF Operational Program Saarland 2014-2020, as well as national budgetary provisions. This ensures legal certainty and compliance with European requirements for co-financing.