Startup Grant.NRW Open
The Startup Grant.NRW supports founders in North Rhine-Westphalia in implementing innovative business ideas. It offers financial support and professional coaching to promote the development of marketable products or services during the critical founding phase.
Who is funded
The Gründungsstipendium.NRW (NRW Startup Grant) targets founders with innovative business ideas in North Rhine-Westphalia. The aim is to financially support these individuals in the early phase of their business establishment and to provide coaching to ensure the success of their ventures.
What is funded
The grant supports innovative startup projects in North Rhine-Westphalia. This includes the development of new or significantly improved products and processes, as well as innovative services with clear customer benefits. The business idea must have sustainable economic prospects.
Type and Extent of Funding
The Gründungsstipendium.NRW offers financial support in the form of a non-repayable grant, the amount of which depends on the number of funded individuals and the duration. The funding is designed for a maximum of 12 months, in exceptional cases up to 15 months.
Conditions and Requirements
The funding is tied to specific conditions, including the submission of the application through an accredited startup network that ensures a recommendation and support. There are clear rules regarding the legal form of the company, the business location, and the cumulation with other funding programs.
Application Process
The application for the Gründungsstipendium.NRW must be submitted via an accredited startup network and include certain documents, including an idea paper and a jury recommendation. The approving authority decides within three months of receiving the complete documents.
Legal Basis
The legal basis of the Gründungsstipendium.NRW is formed by the guideline of June 15, 2018 (last amended on August 24, 2023) and other relevant state budget regulations and EU regulations, in particular the General Block Exemption Regulation.
Funding Overview
Maximum Amount:
€1,200 per month; up to €14,400 per founder (up to €18,000 for female founders with a child); up to €43,200 per team
Deadline:
30.09.2026
Open Until:
31.12.2027
Award Channel:
Competitive Tender
Region:
North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany)
Sectors:
Other
Funding Stages:
Planning, Product Development, Market Introduction
Funding Provider
Program Level: Regional
Funding Body: Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Action and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia (MWIKE)
Managed By: Accredited Startup Networks in North Rhine-Westphalia (e.g., STARTERCENTER NRW)
Additional Partners: Startup Networks, Juries (as advisory/selecting body)