IGP - Innovationsprogramm: BMWK funding for new business models

IGP funds the conception and pilot of new ways to deliver value - subscription models for previously-sold products, marketplace structures, platform business, new pricing logics, integration of underrepresented user groups, sustainability-driven business redesigns. The innovation does not need to be technically novel; it needs to be a genuine market or operational novelty in your segment.

SMEs (KMU per EU definition: <250 employees, <€50M turnover or <€43M balance sheet total) based in Germany. Startups under 5 years old qualify. Universities and research institutes can participate in Module 2 as consortium partners but not lead the application.

A 25-page project description plus a funding application via easy-Online. Required content: problem and current market situation, the innovation concept (what's new and why now), implementation plan with milestones across 2-3 years, market and competition analysis, exploitation plan, risk analysis, detailed budget. Module 2 adds: consortium composition, work packages per partner, joint exploitation.

Stichtage are usually once or twice a year per call. From submission to Bewilligungsbescheid: ~6 months. Decisions arrive in writing with reviewer feedback. Funding period typically starts 1-3 months after the decision; reimbursement is on incurred costs against quarterly Mittelabrufe.