InnoBonus: EUR 10 million for technology transfer in Saarland – new funding opportunities for SMEs and start-ups

This Saarland Ministry of Economic Affairs presented a new funding component of the SME package on 2 September 2025: the InnoBonus. Of a volume of EUR 10 million through the Transformation Fund, the Land government specifically supports research missions from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups. The aim is to accelerate the transfer of research results into marketable products and services, thus creating growth and new jobs in Saarland.

Support for practical innovation
As Minister for Economic Affairs Jürgen Barke stressed that, in particular, the programme should also make it easier for companies with no previous research experience to start up: “It doesn’t always have to be the big invention – small steps in innovation also create growth and new jobs.” Support will be provided for both: Feasibility studies and pre-analysis (up to EUR 25.000 project costs) and specific research and development missions (up to EUR 100.000). The support covers up to: 75 % of project cost ab.

The Funding guideline will be held on 9 October 2025 publishes digital application from Mid-October be possible. The programme runs for four years and is also explicitly targeted at: Micro-enterprises, which have so far been unrelated to research.

All information is based on the Press release from the Ministry of Economy.

Want to learn more about the InnoBonus and other funding opportunities? In our free webinar on 11 September 2025 present the key elements of the new programme and show how your company can benefit from it: ‘Funding opportunities for digitalisation projects in companies’ – now to register!

In addition, we offer: individual speaking hours to clarify your questions about funding and application. Take the opportunity to take your innovation projects forward with public support – let’s inform you!