Funding Guideline 'Trade Fair Meets SMEs NRW'

The program targets small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from North Rhine-Westphalia looking to strengthen their international competitiveness. It aims to reduce disadvantages due to company size and ensure equal opportunities at international trade fairs abroad and international domestic trade fairs.

The program supports the presentation of companies from North Rhine-Westphalia at selected international trade fairs domestically and abroad. The funding relates to specific cost items directly associated with trade fair participation, to facilitate market entry and market development.

Funding is provided as a grant, covering a portion of the eligible costs. There is an annual ceiling per company and restrictions on the total number of grants and waiting periods for renewed applications, with small businesses enjoying special regulations.

To receive funding, applicants must meet certain legal and formal requirements. These include compliance with de minimis regulations, specific requirements for the trade fair and the appearance of the exhibition stand, and proof of proper use of funds.

The application process requires electronic submission of the application form and postal dispatch of a signed printout. After project completion, comprehensive evidence of the measure's implementation and success must be submitted to enable the grant disbursement.

The 'Trade Fair Meets SMEs NRW' funding is based on a specific funding guideline from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Innovation, Digitalisation and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, supplemented by relevant provisions of the State Budget Code and EU regulations for de minimis aid.