Funding from the Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM) – R&D Cooperation Projects

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Who is Funded

This section describes the general eligibility criteria for the Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM), including specific target groups and geographic focus. The programme primarily targets small and medium-sized enterprises and research institutions based in Germany, though international collaborations can also be funded to sustainably strengthen innovation and competitiveness.

What is Funded

This section explains the eligible contents of the ZIM programme, including the types of projects, thematic priorities, and supported activities. Essentially, research and development projects, feasibility studies, and measures for the market launch of innovative products and services are funded, open to all industries and technologies.

Type and Scope of Funding

This section explains the financial aspects of the ZIM programme, including the type of funding, potential funding amounts and rates, and financial limits per project. Support is provided as a non-repayable grant, the amount of which depends on company size and project type.

Conditions and Requirements

This section defines the essential conditions and requirements that applicants and projects must meet under the ZIM programme. These include requirements for the degree of innovation, technical risks, cooperation structures, and financial frameworks, as well as compliance with aid rules such as the De minimis Regulation.

Application Procedure

This section describes the application process for the ZIM programme, from preparation to the funding decision and its handling. Applications can be submitted continuously electronically, with meticulous documentation and adherence to specific requirements being crucial.

Legal Basis

This section outlines the legal foundations of the Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (ZIM). It identifies the relevant guidelines and EU regulations that authorise the programme and govern its implementation, particularly regarding state aid and transparency obligations.