Programme Overview
ZIM (Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand) is Germany's largest technology innovation funding programme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Administered by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) via AiF, ZIM co-funds applied R&D projects that develop new products, processes, or services with genuine market potential.
Who Can Apply?
German SMEs (≤500 employees, ≤€50M turnover or ≤€43M balance sheet). Also open to German research institutions as co-applicants.
What Does It Fund?
Applied R&D for new or significantly improved products, processes, or technical services. Must be innovative beyond the state of the art.
Funding Amount & Rates
Up to €380,000 per project (Einzelprojekte). Kooperationsprojekte can reach €2M+. Standard subsidy rate: 45% of eligible costs for micro/small enterprises, 35% for medium.
Deadlines & Timeline
Application deadline: Rolling — applications accepted year-round. No fixed cut-off dates.
Processing time: 3–6 months from submission to funding decision.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Rolling submissions — no waiting for calls
- High approval rates vs EU programmes
- Non-dilutive grant (no equity)
- Covers personnel, equipment, and subcontractors
Limitations
- Germany-only eligibility
- Personnel cost documentation is burdensome
- Requires German company registration
- Audit requirement for 5 years post-funding