Start-up Transfer.NRW
The Start-up Transfer.NRW program supports universities and research institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia that accompany innovative start-up projects by graduates. It aids in the development of products and services to market maturity, thereby strengthening the regional start-up ecosystem. This initiative bridges the gap between research and the market to enable knowledge-intensive spin-offs.
Who is funded
This funding program targets research and educational institutions in North Rhine-Westphalia that support innovative start-up projects by graduates. The program aims to mobilize the entrepreneurial potential within these institutions and strengthen the regional start-up ecosystem.
What is funded
The Start-up Transfer.NRW program funds knowledge-intensive start-up projects that develop innovative products, services, or processes to market maturity. It does not require cutting-edge technologies but also supports social innovations and innovative services. The funding covers up to 90 percent of eligible expenditures, with a maximum duration of 24 months.
Type and Scope of Funding
The Start-up Transfer.NRW program offers a grant of up to €270,000 per project, covering up to 90% of eligible expenditures. Projects have a maximum duration of 24 months and are financed by funds from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the state.
Conditions and Requirements
To participate in the Start-up Transfer.NRW funding program, specific requirements must be met, including the clear demarcation of the project, the necessity of implementation in NRW, and the assurance of financial resources by the applying institution. Special requirements also apply to the support of founders, who must demonstrate an academic degree and coaching by experienced industry experts. The program is also subject to the principles of gender equality, non-discrimination, and sustainability.
Application Procedure
The application procedure for Start-up Transfer.NRW is two-stage, initially requiring the submission of a project outline by fixed deadlines. Following a positive evaluation, the application is submitted via the ERDF online portal. The selection process involves an assessment by an independent evaluation committee based on detailed criteria, with personal presentations of the start-up projects also possible.
Legal Basis
The Start-up Transfer.NRW funding program is based on the Start-up Transfer.NRW funding announcement and is secured by a variety of national and European regulations. This includes the State Budget Ordinance NRW and specific EU regulations for the European Regional Development Fund and Cohesion Fund. These legal bases ensure the legitimacy and framework for program implementation.
Similar Programs
Funding Overview
Funding Status:
Open
Maximum Amount:
€270,000
Allocated Budget:
€40.4 million
Deadline:
31.07.2025, 31.01.2026
Open Until:
31.12.2028
Award Channel:
Competitive Tender
Region:
North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany)
Sectors:
Research and Development, Service Sector, Information and Communication Technology, Social Enterprises, Other
Application Type:
Single Applicant
Funding Stages:
Basic Research, Applied Research, Experimental Development, Product Development, Commercialization, Market Introduction
Funding Provider
Program Level:
Regional
Funding Body:
Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection and Energy of North Rhine-Westphalia (MWIKE)
Managed By:
Innovation Promotion Agency NRW (IN.NRW), Project Management Jülich (PtJ)