Disclaimer: This English translation is provided for informational purposes only. In the event of any discrepancy, inconsistency, or difference in interpretation between this translation and the original German version, the original German version shall prevail.

Overall Description

The EFRE/JTF Technology Transfer Funding Programme 2021–2027 supports the acquisition and implementation of technological knowledge by SMEs in Saxony. Funding is intended to help SMEs introduce new or technologically improved products, services or processes and achieve process or organisational innovation. Support is provided as a non-repayable grant co-financed through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF/EFRE) or, where applicable, the Just Transition Fund (JTF).

Funding Amount

Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant covering 50% of eligible project costs.

• Contract research costs are eligible up to €400,000
• Project-related indirect costs are calculated as a flat rate of 25% of eligible direct costs for acquired technological knowledge and internal project personnel
• Up to 20% of the approved grant is retained as the final payment and paid only after the final expenditure report has been reviewed

Funding decisions are subject to the availability of public funds.

Submission Deadlines

Applications may be submitted continuously, with no general fixed deadline.

Submission Conditions

• Applications must be submitted through the SAB funding portal.
• The legally binding signed application and all required supporting documents must be uploaded.
• The applicant must provide a commercial exploitation plan demonstrating the marketability of the expected results.
• The technology provider or technology intermediary must not be legally or personally affiliated with the applicant, unless the technology provider is a research institution.
• The project should normally last no longer than 18 months.
• The project may begin once the application has been received by SAB. However, starting before a funding decision is undertaken entirely at the applicant’s own risk.
• The applicant must meet the EU definition of an SME and must not qualify as an undertaking in difficulty.
• Funding is discretionary and does not constitute an entitlement.

Eligible Types of Businesses

Eligible applicants are:

• SMEs operating in the commercial economy
• SMEs with a registered office or permanent business establishment in Saxony

Technology providers, research institutions and technology intermediaries may supply knowledge, contract research or advisory services but are not grant recipients under this specific funding route.

Undertakings in difficulty and businesses subject to an outstanding EU state-aid recovery order are not eligible.

Eligible Countries

Germany – Free State of Saxony

The funding recipient must have its registered office or a permanent business establishment in Saxony. A company headquartered outside Saxony may therefore qualify if it is an eligible SME and maintains a relevant permanent business establishment in Saxony.