The funding programme 'Horizont Impuls' by NBank supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Lower Saxony in preparing project proposals for Horizon Europe, the EU's research and innovation framework programme. The aim is to facilitate SME participation in research, development, and innovation-related projects by providing financial support for external consultancy services.

The programme funds the commissioning of external service providers to assist with the development of proposals in two key areas: Pillar 2 'Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness' (either as project coordinator or partner), and Pillar 3 'Innovative Europe' (specifically the full application stage of the EIC Accelerator). SMEs can receive a non-repayable grant of up to 60% of eligible costs, capped at a maximum of 30,000 €.

Not eligible for funding are projects that already receive or have applied for support through other EU or regional funding sources, as well as services already provided free of charge or co-funded by public institutions. Services provided by company employees or closely affiliated individuals or entities (e.g., relatives, partner companies) are also excluded.

Eligible applicants include micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with a registered office or branch in Lower Saxony. The proposed projects must align with one of the priority areas defined by the RIS3 strategy, such as mobility, life sciences, energy technologies and systems, agriculture and food, new materials, production technology, maritime economy, or the digital economy.

Funding conditions include the existence of a relevant Horizon Europe call in Pillar 2 or successful completion of Phase 1 of the EIC Accelerator in Pillar 3, a consultation with the EU advisory team of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) at NBank, proof of the service provider's qualification in EU research and innovation funding, and the applicant SME must ensure complete project financing. The reimbursement principle applies: grants are paid only after submission and review of invoices for actual eligible costs.

Applications must be submitted prior to project start via the NBank customer portal. Required documents include a project sketch, SME eligibility checklist, de minimis declaration, and the relevant EU call.