Sustainable Modernization of Inland Waterway Vessels for Shifting Freight Transport from Road to Waterway

Last updated: 14.6.2025
Grant

The funding program by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) supports companies in the sustainable modernization of their inland waterway vessels used for freight transport. It aims to increase the competitiveness of inland shipping, reduce emissions, and shift goods from road to waterway. Investments in digitalization, improved hydrodynamics, and adaptations for low-water capability are subsidized for this purpose.

Who is funded

This section explains the general funding criteria of the program by detailing the target groups, the geographical scope, and the overarching objectives of the funding. The primary focus is on the sustainable development of German inland navigation.

What is funded

This section describes the eligible project types and measures aimed at the sustainable modernization and operational improvement of inland waterway vessels. It also specifies the covered costs and the intended development stages of the supported projects.

Type and Extent of Funding

This section provides detailed information on the financial support of the program, including the type of financial instrument, the maximum funding rates, which vary depending on company size and type of measure, and the required commitment period for the funded inland waterway vessels.

Conditions and Requirements

This section describes the essential conditions and requirements for applicants, ranging from project initiation and legal exclusions to compliance with state aid regulations and usage rules for the received funds.

Application Procedure

This section describes in detail the application process for the funding program. Information on preparing and submitting the application, required documents, and criteria for evaluation and final approval is provided.

This section outlines the fundamental legal framework and official documents that authorize and govern the funding program, thereby ensuring transparency and compliance with existing regulations.

Similar Programs

#Inland shipping modernization#freight shift waterway#sustainable inland vessels#BMDV funding#digitalization shipping#low water optimization#Germany transport grants#inland vessel efficiency#CO2 reduction shipping#eco-friendly logistics#river freight innovation#automated vessel systems#propulsion optimization#maritime assistance#emission reduction inland navigation#federal transport support#inland waterways register

Funding Overview

Funding Status

Funding Status:

Open

Maximum Amount

Maximum Amount:

up to 60 percent of eligible investment expenditures for large companies, up to 70 percent for medium-sized companies, and up to 80 percent for small and micro-enterprises. For low-water optimization, up to 80 percent regardless of company size.

Open Until

Open Until:

31.12.2026

Award Channel

Award Channel:

Individual Aid

Region

Region:

Germany

Sectors

Sectors:

Transportation and Logistics, Green Technology, Environmental and Climate Protection

Application Type

Application Type:

Single Applicant

Funding Stages

Funding Stages:

Process Optimization, Infrastructure, Implementation, Experimental Development

Funding Provider

Program Level:

National

Funding Body:

Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV)

Managed By:

General Directorate for Waterways and Shipping (GDWS)

0 x 0
XS