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Horizon Europe Funding Call: Green Energy Solutions

The "Consulting Support - Business Consulting" program in Saxony provides financial assistance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for consulting services on business-relevant issues, as well as for certification costs. It targets companies from sectors such as crafts, trade, services, the cultural and creative industries, as well as freelancers and those in agriculture and forestry. Companies can choose between two procedures: the quality assurance procedure, where an external quality assurer monitors the consulting process, or the direct procedure, where the company selects the consultant on its own.

Eligible consulting services must cover at least five workdays and focus on business, financial, technical, or organizational topics. The costs of initial certifications related to the consulting process are also eligible for funding. Up to 20 workdays can be funded within a 12-month period, with funding rates varying by company size: 50% of eligible costs for small and micro-enterprises, and 40% for medium-sized companies. The maximum grant for certifications is €8,000.

Applications are submitted through the Saxon Development Bank (SAB) funding portal, and funds are paid out after the consulting project is completed, upon submission of the necessary documentation. Combining this program with other funding for the same expenses is not allowed, and the project can only start after SAB approval.

Find the tender website in german here.

Expected Outcome

The expected outcomes of the "Consulting Support - Business Consulting" program in Saxony are aimed at enhancing the overall performance, competitiveness, and sustainability of participating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Key outcomes include:

  1. Improved Business Practices:
    The program aims to help businesses address critical management challenges, leading to better financial planning, organizational efficiency, personnel management, and technical improvements.
  2. Enhanced Competitiveness:
    By receiving professional guidance, companies are expected to become more competitive in their markets, enabling them to grow, innovate, and improve their market positioning.
  3. Successful Certification:
    For companies seeking certifications (e.g., quality management, environmental standards), the program supports the initial certification process. Achieving such certifications is expected to open new business opportunities, improve trust with customers, and meet industry standards.
  4. Long-Term Sustainability:
    Through better management, technical upgrades, and strategic planning, the program encourages sustainable growth for SMEs, which can lead to improved operational longevity and reduced risks.
  5. Quality Control and Monitoring:
    In cases where a quality assurer is involved, the program ensures that the consulting services are effective and meet predefined standards, resulting in better project outcomes.

In summary, the project is expected to lead to stronger, more resilient businesses with improved operational frameworks and new certifications that position them for long-term success.

Scope

The scope of the "Consulting Support - Business Consulting" program in Saxony is to provide financial aid to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for consulting services on critical business issues and certification costs. Here are the main areas covered:

  1. Consulting Services:
    The program supports advisory services for at least five workdays on topics related to:

    • Business management
    • Financial management
    • Personnel matters
    • Technical issues
    • Organizational improvements
  2. Certification Costs:
    The program also helps cover the costs associated with obtaining certifications, particularly first-time certifications related to business improvements, quality, or management systems.
  3. Eligible Sectors:
    The program targets various industries, including:

    • Handcrafts
    • Trade and commerce
    • Services
    • Cultural and creative industries
    • Agriculture and forestry
    • Freelancers and professional services
  4. Funding Limits:
    • A maximum of 20 workdays within a 12-month period can be funded.
    • The program covers up to 50% of eligible costs for small and micro-enterprises and 40% for medium-sized businesses.
    • Certification grants are capped at €8,000 per project.

The goal of the program is to enhance business management practices, drive innovation, and improve organizational and operational efficiency for companies in Saxony.

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