Start-up BW Vouchers

The innovation vouchers Baden-Württemberg support the use of research and development services in the context of planning, development and implementation of innovative ideas. The Hightech Start-up voucher was introduced in 2012. It is aimed specifically at high-tech start-ups for a period of up to five years after foundation, and supports innovative ideas from the growth areas of the future. The Hightech Digital voucher was then introduced in May 2017, to support mature and old SMEs in the development and implementation of challenging digital products and services. It provides special conditions for applicants who rely on start-ups as R&D partners.

Baden-Württemberg operates a low-threshold voucher system that is different to the consulting subsidy programmes available elsewhere in Germany. For example, no specific application is required to receive the expert consultation. Up to 80 % of the costs for this are covered by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Baden-Württemberg and by the European Social Fund (ESF). Consultations are performed by selected institutions, including Start-up BW partners with suitable consulting resources for innovative and growth-oriented start-up plans.