Funding for "KMU-innovativ: Photonics and Quantum Technologies" within the "Photonics Research Germany" Program

Open

Who is Funded

This funding program primarily targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-sized companies in Germany that wish to implement high-risk research and development projects in the fields of photonics and quantum technologies. Within the framework of collaborative projects, universities and non-university research institutions can also participate, with a focus on benefiting SMEs. Projects must be carried out in Germany, and the results must be utilized here or in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.

What is Funded

The program funds high-risk, application-oriented research and development projects in the fields of photonics and quantum technologies. Eligible costs include personnel, instruments and equipment, contract research, and overheads. Projects can cover different maturity levels from basic research to experimental development.

Type and Scope of Funding

Funding is provided as a grant, with funding rates varying depending on the type of applicant and research stage. Commercial enterprises typically receive up to 50 percent of their eligible costs, while universities and non-university research institutions can receive up to 100 percent. The maximum funding duration is generally three years.

Conditions and Requirements

Specific conditions apply to application submission and project implementation. These include the obligation to carry out the project in Germany, the utilization of results in the EEA or Switzerland, and strict requirements for collaborative projects, particularly regarding cooperation agreements and the avoidance of indirect aid. Furthermore, the state aid regulations of the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) must be observed.

Application Procedure

The application procedure is two-stage: First, interested parties submit project outlines, which are evaluated and selected. If positively evaluated, the second stage involves an invitation to submit a formal funding application. Both steps require the use of electronic systems and compliance with specific deadlines and content requirements.

Legal Basis

The funding measure is based on a specific guideline from the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and is governed by relevant federal budgetary regulations and EU state aid regulations, particularly the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER). The full texts of these legal bases are publicly accessible.