Learn more about the offer:
Funding and Partnerships
Fördermittel & Finanzierung
01.07.2026
Consulting on funding opportunities
Advice on EU, national and regional funding for innovation and AI projects
The funding advisory service supports start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and technology-oriented organisations in accessing public funding for innovation and projects. The aim is to provide guidance through the complex funding landscape and to identify suitable funding channels for innovation, digitalisation and AI projects.
The focus is on a structured and practical advisory approach, ranging from an initial overview to a concrete funding strategy. National funding programmes, EU funding instruments and regional support schemes are systematically analysed and tailored to the specific project. These include, amongst others, programmes in the context of research and innovation, digitalisation funding, EU framework programmes and simplified access routes such as cascade funding.
The consultancy service involves identifying suitable funding programmes based on your project idea, your technology’s maturity level and your organisation’s current situation. In addition, requirements, deadlines, funding criteria and prerequisites for success are clearly explained to enable a realistic assessment of eligibility for funding.
Another key component is support throughout the application process – from the initial structuring of the idea, through assistance with drafting applications, to strategic alignment with suitable funding schemes. Where necessary, support is also provided for the formation of project consortia, particularly where collaborative projects with partners from industry and academia are required.
In addition, the transition between public funding and private forms of financing, such as venture capital or business angels, is examined to facilitate a holistic financing strategy. The aim is to support companies at an early stage in their financial planning, reduce risks associated with programme selection and significantly minimise the effort involved in searching for suitable funding. This enables innovation projects to be prepared in a more targeted manner and implemented more successfully.
For a quick initial overview of suitable funding opportunities, you can also use our funding database ‘EDDA-hilft’
Who is this service for?
The funding advisory service is aimed at start-ups, SMEs, technology-oriented companies, research institutions and public organisations that are planning or already implementing innovation, digitalisation or AI projects and are seeking suitable funding for these. It is particularly aimed at organisations with little experience in the field of public funding, as well as those that wish to make targeted use of complex EU or national funding programmes and professionalise their funding strategy.
Fee:
This service is offered as part of the EDIH-AICS 2.0 initiative. The cost depends on the scope and effort involved and will be agreed individually with the contact person. Thanks to the funding, the service is provided at reduced rates.
Required AI entry level:
This service is suitable for all levels of experience, whether you are a beginner or an expert.