All 173 funding programmes
in Germany

Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein (AVGS) für Gründungscoaching, § 45 Abs. 1 S.1 Nr.4 SGB III

free startup coaching voucher

100% coverage of the cost of individual coaching (typically 2–8 weeks, paid directly to the AZAV-certified coach)

Who pays

Agentur für Arbeit / Jobcenter

Who qualifies

Unemployed persons/those at risk of unemployment (ALG I) or recipients of Grundsicherungsgeld preparing for self-employment; ALG I recipients have a legal entitlement to AVGS after 6 weeks of registered unemployment.

First step

At the appointment with the Agentur für Arbeit/Jobcenter, specifically request an AVGS under § 45 Abs. 1 S. 1 Nr. 4 SGB III (MAT) for self-employment preparation, then choose an AZAV-certified coach.

Deadline

ongoing

Often the first step before applying for Gründungszuschuss — a professional assessment from the AVGS coach strengthens the subsequent application. For ALG I there is a legal entitlement after 6 weeks; for Bürgergeld/Grundsicherungsgeld it is discretionary.

Arbeitsstipendien der Länder / Stiftung Kunstfonds

monthly grant for working artists

Work grants usually €1,000–2,500/month over several months, or one-off project sums; amounts vary by state

Who pays

State (Länder) Kulturministerien / Stiftung Kunstfonds

Who qualifies

Professional artists (visual art, film, music, literature) whose main activity is based in the respective state; competitive selection based on portfolio.

First step

Check your state's Kulturministerium scholarship programme (for Baden-Württemberg: Kunststiftung BW) as well as the nationwide Stiftung Kunstfonds; submit a portfolio by the deadline.

Deadline

depends on the state/fund — mostly annual deadlines

A general pointer, not a single programme — amounts and deadlines differ by state. "Check your state's foundation plus Stiftung Kunstfonds." Selection is competitive.

Berliner Startup-Stipendium (BSS)

monthly stipend for berlin startups

up to €2,500/month per person, up to 12 months (longer in individual cases)

Who pays

Investitionsbank Berlin (IBB) / Science & Startups

Who qualifies

Technology/innovative startup project based in Berlin (university, research institution, or accredited startup center as partner); the application is not submitted directly by the individual but through the partner institution.

First step

Find an accredited Berlin startup center/university program (e.g. Startup Incubator Berlin, HTW, TU Berlin) and submit the application for the next Förderrunde/Call through them.

Deadline

by competitive rounds (Calls); 2nd Call 2026 started on 01.03.2026, up to €31 million for ~680 participants

Application is NOT submitted directly to IBB — only through the partner organization/network. There is a separate women's track 'BSS Women' (at least €6.6 million allocated). Check the current application status before starting, windows open per round.

Bundesförderung für Energie- und Ressourceneffizienz in der Wirtschaft (EEW) – Modul 2: Prozesswärme aus Erneuerbaren Energien

grant for renewable business heating

40–60% of investment costs depending on company size (small companies — up to 60%)

Who pays

BAFA / Förderzentrale Deutschland (FZD)

Who qualifies

Business/freelancer with a production process switching to heat pumps, solar collectors, geothermal energy or biomass for process heat

First step

Submit the application via the new Förderzentrale Deutschland (FZD) before signing an equipment contract

Deadline

ongoing (via FZD since 15.09.2025)

Only relevant if the business has its own production/technical process requiring heat — not for pure service/office freelancers

Bundesförderung für Energieberatung im Mittelstand (BAFA)

subsidized energy advice for business

up to €1,200 (80% of costs, if energy costs up to €10,000/year) or up to €8,000 (60%, if above €10,000/year)

Who pays

BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control)

Who qualifies

SME (small/medium-sized enterprise per EU definition) registered in Germany, requires an accredited energy consultant

First step

Obtain a cost estimate from an accredited BAFA energy consultant, submit the application via the BAFA online system BEFORE the consultation starts

Deadline

ongoing

Counts as de-minimis state aid (3-year limit); the application MUST be submitted before the consultation begins, otherwise it will be rejected

Deutscher Filmförderfonds (DFFF I & II)

rebate for films made in germany

up to €5 million (DFFF I) / up to €25 million (DFFF II) — 30% of eligible German production costs

Who pays

FFA Filmförderungsanstalt / Beauftragte der Bundesregierung für Kultur und Medien (BKM)

Who qualifies

Producers of film or series (co-)productions shot wholly or partly in Germany; requires prior experience and project financing already in place.

First step

Book the mandatory consultation with the FFA via the FFA service portal before submitting an application (registration open from 22 July 2026).

Deadline

ongoing (no deadlines, but no later than 6 weeks before filming starts)

Not for first-time producers without a budget — the fund covers part of an already financed production, not seed capital. From 2026 the budget was doubled to €250 million together with the GMPF.

Digitalbonus Bayern

grant to digitize your business

Standard: up to €7,500 (50% of costs); Plus: up to €30,000 (50% of costs for AI/digital innovations)

Who pays

Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Wirtschaft, Landesentwicklung und Energie (StMWi)

Who qualifies

Small business (<50 employees, <€10 million turnover) with a valid place of business in Bavaria, valid ELSTER business account since May 2025.

First step

Set up/verify an ELSTER business account and submit the application via the official portal digitalbonus.bayern (only independently, not through intermediaries).

Deadline

applications accepted until 31.12.2027, monthly quotas

Not intended for startups still at the idea stage — an already registered business (Gewerbe) in Bavaria is required. The current focus has shifted toward AI/robotics. Applying through third parties is prohibited.

ERP-Förderkredit Gründung und Nachfolge (077)

loan when banks say no

No fixed upper limit stated in the general description; term of 10 years (2 grace years) or 15 years (5 grace years); 100% guarantee via the Bürgschaftsbank, of which 80% is covered by a federal guarantee

Who pays

KfW / Bürgschaftsbank of the federal state

Who qualifies

Founders/successors who are turned down by a regular bank due to lack of collateral or equity; for investments, business acquisitions, or working capital.

First step

Contact the Bürgschaftsbank of your federal state together with a partner bank willing to grant a loan under this guarantee.

Deadline

ongoing

Replaced the ERP-Kapital für Gründung program (058), which closed on 01.01.2023; in effect since 01.11.2024. A more complex product — requires both a partner bank and the Bürgschaftsbank; not for a micro-startup from scratch, rather for projects with a real capital plan.

ERP-Gründerkredit – StartGeld (067)

cheap loan to start a business

Up to €200,000 (of which up to €80,000 for working capital), interest rate from approx. 3.49% p.a., 1–2 years without principal repayment; no equity required, the partner bank is released from 80% of the risk

Who pays

KfW via the Hausbank (home bank)

Who qualifies

Founders, freelancers, small businesses (up to 50 employees) within 5 years of founding, including part-time/side businesses; application is made through the bank, not directly with KfW.

First step

Approach your own bank/savings bank (Hausbank) with a business plan and ask them to apply for the KfW loan 067 ERP-Gründerkredit-StartGeld.

Deadline

ongoing

This is a loan (Darlehen), not a grant — repayable with interest. Since 01.12.2025 the cap was raised from €125,000 to €200,000. The main hurdle is finding a Hausbank willing to submit the application. With top-up Grundsicherung, low income can make bank approval harder — check the effect on income offsetting with the Jobcenter first. The regional equivalent in Baden-Württemberg is L-Bank Startfinanzierung 80.

EXI-Gründungsgutschein

cheap consulting to start a business

First ~4 hours free, then a personal contribution of about €83 to about €476 instead of the full market price of consulting

Who pays

Steinbeis-Beratungszentren / BWHM / RKW BW / bwcon

Who qualifies

Officially - for people who have NOT yet founded a business, OR who run a Nebenerwerb (side business) and want to move into full self-employment; a Gewerbe already run as a Haupterwerb for a year may formally NOT qualify.

First step

Call the Steinbeis-Beratungszentrum Existenzgründung directly and describe the case: 'one year Gewerbe, aufstockend, want to move to full-time income' - the first 4 hours are free regardless of the outcome.

Deadline

ongoing

The weakest fit on the list - the 'Nebenerwerb' criterion formally does not match Haupterwerb status. But the call itself is free and quick. Context: as of 01.07.2026, Bürgergeld was officially renamed 'Grundsicherungsgeld' (SGB II reform).

EXIST-Gründungsstipendium

monthly pay to build a startup

Personal stipend €1,000-3,000/month (+€150 per child) for up to 12 months; + up to €30,000 for team material costs; + up to €5,000 for coaching/consulting

Who pays

BMWE (via the university's Gründungsservice)

Who qualifies

Students (from the midpoint of their studies), graduates (degree no older than 5 years), or researchers at a German university with an innovative, technology- or knowledge-based project; teams of up to 3 people.

First step

Contact the Gründungsservice/Transferstelle of your German university — only they can submit the EXIST application on behalf of the founder(s).

Deadline

ongoing

NOT suited to a typical Jobcenter client — requires an active affiliation with a German university (student/graduate/researcher) and an innovative idea. Application only through the university, not independently; useful for migrants with an academic background in Germany.

EXIST-Women

founding stipend for women

stipend + mentoring/coaching for female founders (amount set by university agreement); universities receive up to €20,000 for accompanying measures

Who pays

Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWE, formerly BMWK) via university partners

Who qualifies

Women in the pre-founding phase, affiliated with a university or research institution that has (or is building) a startup network with support for women.

First step

Check whether your university/research institution has an EXIST-Women partnership and contact its Gründungsbüro about the stipend agreement.

Deadline

ongoing (program extended after the 2023/2024 pilot phase)

A supplement to the EXIST-Gründerstipendium, specifically for women from academic backgrounds. The application is not submitted directly by the individual — the university/institution concludes the agreement with the recipient; start with your own university.

Ehrenamtskarte Baden-Württemberg

discounts for active volunteers

not a cash payment — discounts/free admission to museums, swimming pools, theaters, cinemas, etc.

Who pays

Ministerium für Soziales, Gesundheit und Integration Baden-Württemberg + municipalities

Who qualifies

At least 1 year of volunteering, ≥200 hours in the last 12 months (or 100 hours for a project) at a nonprofit organization; available in Freiburg and other districts since 2025

First step

Apply via your district's/city's website (Freiburg — via the city portal), with proof of hours from the organization

Deadline

ongoing, phased rollout since summer 2025

Not available statewide across the board — check whether your specific district is already connected; for volunteers with a Juleica or in rescue services, the conditions are automatically considered met

Einstiegsgeld nach § 16b SGB II

extra cash when you start self-employment

Determined individually by the case manager, benchmark approx. 50% of the Regelbedarf (single person approx. €281.50/month) plus supplements for family situation/duration of unemployment; maximum 24 months

Who pays

Jobcenter

Who qualifies

Recipients of Grundsicherungsgeld (formerly Bürgergeld) starting self-employment with at least 15 hours/week who have not previously run a business as their main occupation; realistic prospects of exiting benefits are required.

First step

Book a consultation with the Jobcenter case manager BEFORE registering the Gewerbe, and bring a business plan plus a 3-year financial forecast.

Deadline

ongoing

Discretionary benefit (Ermessensleistung) — no legal entitlement; the decision rests entirely with the case manager. The amount is not fixed by law. Since 01.07.2026, Bürgergeld has been renamed Grundsicherungsgeld; § 16b remains in force and is explicitly excluded from the new reform's "fast employment priority".

Enterprise Europe Network Deutschland — Beratung & Innovationsgutscheine

free advice for going european

Free consulting; innovation vouchers €3,000-€50,000 (20-35% co-financing) depending on regional program

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / regional EEN partners (IHK, Handwerkskammer, Steinbeis, etc.)

Who qualifies

Small/medium businesses (including Gewerbe/Freiberufler) intending to enter European markets or with an innovation project

First step

Find the nearest EEN contact point (e.g., IHK Südlicher Oberrhein in Freiburg) and book a free consultation

Deadline

ongoing

The network itself is free; specific innovation vouchers depend on the regional program and budget — check with the local EEN partner.

Förderrichtlinie Digitalisierung Zuschuss EFRE 2021–2027

grant to digitize your business

up to €10,000 (micro-enterprises, up to 60%) or up to €60,000/€100,000 (small/medium enterprises, up to 50%/35%)

Who pays

Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB)

Who qualifies

Micro, small or medium-sized enterprise, or freelancer in a regulated profession, based in Saxony, minimum €5,000 project costs

First step

Submit an application via the SAB förderportal BEFORE the project starts, and wait for the confirmation letter before beginning work

Deadline

ongoing (program runs until 2027)

Starting the project BEFORE receiving application confirmation forfeits the funding entitlement; +10% for tariff-based pay; maximum project duration is 12 months

Förderung Serien / New-Media-Förderung – Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg

funding for series and new media

exact amounts are not publicly disclosed; mostly a conditionally repayable, interest-free loan, though grants are possible for graduation/short film projects

Who pays

Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg GmbH

Who qualifies

Producers, game developers and distributors based in Berlin/Brandenburg — from startups and graduates to established companies; series (fiction, factual, entertainment) and innovative audiovisual content.

First step

Read the relevant Merkblatt (information sheet) at medienboard.de/en/funding/series and contact curator Christian Gerster or Antonia Schürmann before applying.

Deadline

21.07.2026 — series formats (fiction/entertainment/factual); 20.10.2026 — high-end series

The nearest deadline (21.07.2026) is very tight — realistically aim for 20.10.2026. A company/base in Berlin or Brandenburg is required; difficult for a solo freelancer without a production structure to apply directly.

Förderung von Unternehmensberatungen für KMU (BAFA)

help paying for business consultants

50% (western states) up to 80% (eastern states + Berlin) of consulting costs, maximum €3,000–3,500 per consultation depending on the business phase

Who pays

BAFA

Who qualifies

Small and medium-sized entrepreneurs/freelancers — both newly founded (first 2 years) and established (from year 3 onward); maximum 5 consultations during the validity of the directive, no more than 2 per year.

First step

Choose a consultant from the BAFA list and submit the application via the BAFA online portal — BEFORE signing the contract and starting the consultation.

Deadline

Directive valid until 31.12.2026

Current official name: "Förderung von Unternehmensberatungen für KMU" (formerly "unternehmerisches Know-how"). The money goes to the consultant, not to your own account. CRITICAL: the application + Informationsschreiben MUST be submitted BEFORE the consultation starts, otherwise it will be rejected. Since 11/2025, the subsidy is calculated on the gross amount (incl. VAT) — advantageous for Kleinunternehmer under § 19.

German Motion Picture Fund (GMPF)

rebate for high-end series filming

up to €5 million (film) / up to €20 million per season (series) — 30% of eligible German production costs

Who pays

FFA Filmförderungsanstalt / BKM

Who qualifies

Producers of high-end series and non-theatrical films with an office in Germany and a reference production from the past 5-7 years.

First step

Complete the mandatory consultation with the FFA's GMPF team, then submit the application no later than 6 weeks before filming starts.

Deadline

ongoing (no deadlines)

Requires at least 40 points across the criteria (cultural content, creative team, production) — not suitable for a first project without references.

Gründungsstipendium.NRW

monthly stipend for nrw founders

€1,200/month (€1,500/month for gender-mixed teams), up to 12 months + bonus of up to €3,600 per person for mixed teams

Who pays

State of NRW / regional accredited Gründungsnetzwerke (IHK, universities, development agencies)

Who qualifies

Innovative business idea, willingness to pitch it before a jury of an accredited Gründungsnetzwerk in NRW.

First step

Choose the nearest accredited Gründungsnetzwerk (e.g. via IHK Bonn/Rhein-Sieg or IHK Siegen) and register for a jury pitch.

Deadline

applications under the current regulation until 30.09.2026, approval by 31.12.2026

NOTE: Jury sessions have been suspended since 01.04.2026 due to high demand (application backlog); currently only previously submitted applications are being processed. Check the current resumption status before applying.

Gründungszuschuss nach § 93 SGB III

income while starting your business

Phase 1 (6 months): last ALG I amount + €300/month flat rate; Phase 2 (9 months, separate decision): €300/month; totaling up to approx. €20,400, tax-free and non-repayable

Who pays

Agentur für Arbeit

Who qualifies

ALG I recipients with a remaining entitlement of at least 150 days at the start of self-employment; a viability assessment from a competent body (IHK/HWK/bank) is required.

First step

Submit the application to the Agentur für Arbeit BEFORE registering the Gewerbe, together with a business plan and a Tragfähigkeitsbescheinigung from IHK/HWK.

Deadline

ongoing

Discretionary benefit even when all conditions are met — there is no guarantee. Only for ALG I (unemployment insurance), NOT for Bürgergeld/Grundsicherungsgeld — for those, Einstiegsgeld § 16b applies instead. Phase 2 is not automatic; active business activity must be demonstrated.

INVEST – Zuschuss für Wagniskapital

cash back for your investor

15% acquisition subsidy (Erwerbszuschuss) for the investor on the investment amount (minimum stake €10,000, maximum grant €100,000 per investor) + up to 25% exit subsidy on profit at sale

Who pays

BAFA

Who qualifies

Indirect support for the founder — the grant goes to a private investor (business angel) who invests in a young, innovative start-up (up to 7 years old, up to 50 employees, max. €10 million turnover).

First step

The company applies to BAFA for confirmation of eligibility BEFORE signing the investment agreement; in parallel the investor prepares a separate grant application.

Deadline

Applications for the Erwerbszuschuss are accepted until 31.12.2026 (program extended)

This is NOT direct financial support for the founder but an incentive for the private investor — useful only if a specific business angel is already in place. The company must be "innovative" (patents/R&D funding/innovation award), otherwise the application is rejected.

IQ Netzwerk Baden-Württemberg

free business advice for migrants

Free of charge

Who pays

ikubiz (network coordinator), funded by BMAS/ESF+

Who qualifies

Free consultation for people with a migration background regarding qualification recognition and support for an already-founded business.

First step

Find the regional IQ contact point for Freiburg/Südbaden at netzwerk-iq-bw.de and schedule a consultation.

Deadline

ongoing, program runs 2026-2028

Not direct funding, but guidance - they can point to funding programs accessible specifically via migration status. A cheap first step, not a standalone solution.

Initiative Musik – Künstler:innenförderung

grant for emerging musicians

project grant, 2026 round: approx. €840,000 distributed among approx. 100 artists/bands

Who pays

Initiative Musik gGmbH (funded by BKM, GVL, GEMA)

Who qualifies

Solo artists and bands looking to establish themselves in the German or international music market (recording, music videos, touring, marketing)

First step

Apply via antrag.initiative-musik.de in the next funding round (75th round: 11.09–02.10.2026)

Deadline

by rounds: next round 11.09–02.10.2026 (project starts 20.11.2026)

12-member jury, high competition — a release/portfolio and a clear touring or recording plan are required

Initiative „FRAUEN unternehmen"

mentors for women entrepreneurs

free of charge

Who pays

Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) / Prospektiv GmbH office

Who qualifies

Women considering self-employment — access to over 250 role-model female entrepreneurs, workshops, and events nationwide

First step

Browse the map of role-model female entrepreneurs and the events calendar on bundeswirtschaftsministerium.de/Redaktion/DE/Dossier/frauen-unternehmen.html, or email info@frauen-unternehmen-initiative.de

Deadline

ongoing, over 400 events per year

A network for mentoring and inspiration (not money) — focused on STEM and skilled trades, where women are underrepresented; a good channel for contacts and networking before applying for a grant

InnoRampUp

grant for hamburg tech startups

up to €150,000 per startup, funding rate up to 90% of costs

Who pays

IFB Innovationsstarter GmbH (subsidiary of IFB Hamburg)

Who qualifies

Company/founder(s) with legal or actual activity in Hamburg, company age <2 years, <50 employees, turnover/balance sheet total <€10 million, high level of technological innovation (own IP, often based on scientific research).

First step

Submit the application via the portal innovationsstarter.com/innorampup, including a description of the technological innovation and the business plan.

Deadline

ongoing (continuous application intake)

Deep-tech focus — a real technological innovation (patent/prototype) is required, not just an idea. The company must be registered in Hamburg. Competition is high due to the large grant amount.

Innovationsgutschein Start-up BW

voucher for research and development help

Up to €20,000 for scientific/R&D services from an external partner (university, Steinbeis, etc.)

Who pays

L-Bank

Who qualifies

Founders and small companies up to 5 years old (your Gewerbe qualifies), BUT a project with a scientific R&D component via an external provider is mandatory - not simply production work.

First step

Write to innovationsgutschein@l-bank.de with the project idea (e.g. researching a new AI video workflow together with a university) and ask whether it qualifies.

Deadline

ongoing

A stretch for a pure video/AI content business without a clear R&D component - only makes sense with a concrete research element together with a scientific institution.

Junge Innovatoren – Existenzgründungen aus Hochschulen und Forschungseinrichtungen

stipend for university founders

half-time TV-L13 position for 1-2 (exceptionally 3) years + up to €20,000 for materials/investments + up to €5,000 for coaching

Who pays

Ministerium für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Kunst Baden-Württemberg (via VDI/VDE Innovation + Technik)

Who qualifies

Graduates or research staff of universities/research institutions in Baden-Württemberg (no more than 5 years after graduation/leaving), innovative product or business model idea.

First step

Contact your university's Gründungsbüro/Startup Center in BW (e.g. HdM Stuttgart, Reutlingen University) to apply for the next deadline.

Deadline

several competitive rounds per year; last known deadline 05.05.2026

Not a cash grant — it is a half-time employment position at the university plus a materials budget. Not for already registered companies (funds the preparation BEFORE founding, not ongoing business operations).

Kontaktstelle Frau und Beruf Freiburg – Südlicher Oberrhein

free career coaching for women

free of charge

Who pays

City of Freiburg / Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism Baden-Württemberg

Who qualifies

Women from Freiburg, Emmendingen, Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald, and the Ortenaukreis who are returning to work, changing careers, or planning to start a business

First step

Book a free appointment via the 'Kostenfreien Termin vereinbaren' button on frauundberuf-bw.de/kontaktstelle-frau-und-beruf-freiburg or call 0761 201-1731

Deadline

ongoing, monthly orientation session 'Ich gründe!?'

Regionally tied to Freiburg — exactly where Heidar lives; individual consultations are free and confidential, including on childcare topics

Kulturamt Freiburg - Projektförderung, Sparte Film

funding for film projects in freiburg

Annual budget for the Film category ≈€41,000 for all projects citywide; the amount per project is determined individually by the jury

Who pays

City of Freiburg, Kulturamt

Who qualifies

Independent film/video projects (development, production, post-production) with their center of activity in Freiburg; commercial advertising, commissioned TV work, and student projects are excluded.

First step

Schedule an online consultation with Ann-Kathrin Harr (ann-kathrin.harr@freiburg.de, 0761 201-2104) before applying.

Deadline

1 November annually (for projects in the following year) - some categories have a separate 1 May deadline, confirm directly for Film

The project must be artistic/non-commercial with a mandatory public presentation in Freiburg - client AI video commissions do NOT qualify; a separate 'authorial' project is needed (e.g. a documentary).

Kulturwirtschaftliche Film- und Medienförderung – Kurzfilm – nordmedia

grant for short films

up to €40,000 for short films (up to 30 minutes running time)

Who pays

nordmedia GmbH (Film- und Mediengesellschaft Niedersachsen/Bremen)

Who qualifies

Short-film creators (up to 30 min.) with a connection to Lower Saxony or Bremen (residence, production, or company base).

First step

Book the mandatory online consultation via nordmedia.de/pages/foerderung (a consultation code is required 14 days before the deadline), then submit via their online portal.

Deadline

The committee meets 3 times a year, current guidelines run until 31.12.2026 — check exact dates in the Einreichtermine section on the website

A festival screening counts as a theatrical release — more flexible than some other states. Regional ties are mandatory, so this only fits with a partner or base in Lower Saxony or Bremen.

Kunststiftung Baden-Württemberg – Stipendien

stipends for regional artists

€6,000 – €12,000

Who pays

Kunststiftung Baden-Württemberg gGmbH

Who qualifies

Artists (visual arts, music, literature, performing arts) with primary residence/workplace in Baden-Württemberg, who completed their training no more than 10 years ago.

First step

Follow the announcement on kunststiftung.de (next cycle: applications for the 2027 scholarship open from July 2026) and apply by October.

Deadline

Applications for 2027 open from July 2026, deadline usually mid-October

Most relevant regionally (Freiburg = Baden-Württemberg), BUT geared toward classical artistic disciplines, not business/marketing content; better suited to the soul project All We Art than to primary income. Maximum of 3 application attempts per person.

Kunststiftung NRW – Förderprogramm AUFTAKT

support for emerging artists

individual, depending on the project (production, publication, research grants)

Who pays

Kunststiftung NRW

Who qualifies

Emerging artists and independent project spaces based in NRW (not suitable if the main place of activity is Freiburg/Baden-Württemberg).

First step

Check the current deadline and apply via the application portal at kunststiftungnrw.de.

Deadline

Various deadlines depending on the funding area — check the website

NOT geographically suitable for Heidar (he's in Freiburg, Baden-Württemberg, not NRW) — included for reference in case plans change or it becomes relevant for a partner/client from NRW.

Künstlersozialkasse (KSK)

half your insurance paid, artists

The KSK covers approx. 50% of self-employed artists' pension/health/long-term-care insurance contributions — as the "employer" share

Who pays

Künstlersozialkasse (BAS)

Who qualifies

Self-employed artists and publicists (photographers, designers, video makers, musicians, writers) who earn a living professionally and continuously from their creative work; income guideline from approx. €3,900/year.

First step

Submit the Fragebogen zur Feststellung der Versicherungspflicht at kuenstlersozialkasse.de and attach proof of creative activity (portfolio, invoices, contracts).

Deadline

ongoing

A huge saving for video/creative freelancers — the state pays the "employer" half of the contributions. The predominantly creative nature of the work must be proven.

Meistergründungsprämie (Landesprogramm, z. B. Berlin/Brandenburg/Thüringen)

bonus for master craftsmen starting up

€2,500–25,000 depending on the state: e.g. Berlin up to €25,000, Brandenburg up to €12,000 (+€5,000 for a new job created), Thuringia €5,000 base amount +€2,500 for a new job created

Who pays

State (Land) (via IHK/HWK, state development banks)

Who qualifies

Individuals who have passed the Meisterprüfung (master craftsman exam) and are founding, taking over, or becoming a co-owner of a business (typically at least 25–30% stake).

First step

Check the website of the relevant Handwerkskammer (chamber of crafts) to see whether a Meistergründungsprämie exists, and submit the application within the required deadline after founding (usually 6–12 months).

Deadline

Valid until 31.12.2026 in most states

An example of a state-program category — amounts and conditions DIFFER by state and must be checked individually. Relevant only to holders of a Meisterbrief; present it in the quiz as "check your state" rather than as a uniform amount.

Mikromezzaninfonds Deutschland – silent participation

Mikromezzaninfonds Deutschland – stille Beteiligung

mezzanine capital for small businesses without collateral

Silent participation up to €100,000, up to €150,000 for target groups. Cost: fixed 8% p.a., one-off 3.5% fee, variable profit share up to 2%. 10-year term, principal repaid in three equal instalments from year 7

Who pays

Mikromezzaninfonds Deutschland / Mittelständische Beteiligungsgesellschaften

Who qualifies

Small and young companies and founders with limited capital. Priority target groups: people founding out of unemployment, women-led businesses, founders with a migration background, social and ecologically sustainable enterprises. No material collateral required.

First step

Fill in the application with a business plan and submit it to the Mittelständische Beteiligungsgesellschaft of your federal state (in BW: MBG Baden-Württemberg).

Deadline

rolling applications

Capital without collateral and without investor voting rights — it improves the rating and creates extra borrowing capacity. Expensive (8% p.a.), so only worthwhile for concrete revenue growth.

Mittelstand Innovativ & Digital (MID) – MID-Digitalisierung

grant to digitize your business

up to €15,000, up to 50% of costs for digital products/IT security

Who pays

NRW.BANK / State of NRW

Who qualifies

Micro, small or medium-sized enterprise (EU-SME) of any sector, based in NRW, without more than €300,000 in de-minimis aid over the past 3 years

First step

Register for the lottery draw (Losverfahren) at nordrhein-westfalen-foerdert.nrw, then submit the full application within 28 days after selection

Deadline

01.01.2026–31.12.2029, intakes via lottery draw

Unusual two-stage system: first a lottery registration, only selected applicants get access to submit a full application — don't miss the round opening

Mittelstand-Digital Zentren

free digitalization advice for business

free (€0) — consultations, workshops, AI trainers

Who pays

BMWE (Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy), ~30 regional centers

Who qualifies

Any SME/self-employed person in Germany — no formal restrictions by sector or size

First step

Find the nearest center at mittelstand-digital.de and book a 1:1 Sprechstunde (1-2 hour consultation)

Deadline

ongoing

This is not a cash grant but the official successor to the discontinued go-digital program — useful BEFORE applying to Digitalbonus/MID to prepare the project properly

Nachwuchsprogramm der Film- und Medienstiftung NRW

support for young filmmakers

total annual programme budget ≈ €1.5 million for debut and first films (individual amounts set by the jury)

Who pays

Film- und Medienstiftung NRW

Who qualifies

Students at film/TV academies in NRW or debutants/emerging talents from other institutions with residence/base in North Rhine-Westphalia.

First step

Submit the application without a fixed deadline (rolling) via filmstiftung.de — the five-member jury decides within 3 weeks.

Deadline

ongoing (no fixed deadlines, fast decision within 3 weeks)

The fastest and simplest process on the whole list — no queuing for deadline rounds. The main requirement is an actual residence/base in NRW; suitable if Heidar or a project partner relocates or has a production base there.

Orientierungsberatungen für Kultur- und Kreativschaffende (MFG Baden-Württemberg)

free advice for creative freelancers

Free of charge, individual session

Who pays

MFG Medien- und Filmgesellschaft Baden-Württemberg

Who qualifies

For founders, freelancers, and small companies in the creative industry (film, design, media, games, etc.) in Baden-Württemberg, with no restriction on business age.

First step

Register online for the next session (23.07 or later dates, online format also available) via the registration form on mfg.de.

Deadline

ongoing, monthly sessions through December 2026

Not a grant, but an entry point - the advisor points to concrete funding programs and networks matching the profile. The fastest and cheapest first step on the list.

Produktionsförderung / Incentive Funding – MFG Filmförderung

funding to produce films regionally

variable; in the most recent 2026 round, €3.9 million was distributed across 20 projects (production, development, production preparation)

Who pays

MFG Medien- und Filmgesellschaft Baden-Württemberg mbH

Who qualifies

Film/series producers with a project or production link to Baden-Württemberg (shooting, post-production or VFX in the region); a conditionally repayable loan tied to the project's success.

First step

Mandatory preliminary consultation with the responsible curator via film.mfg.de, then submit the application through the MFG database (production funding is digital-only).

Deadline

Next submission deadline — 30.06.2026 (several rounds per year, check current dates at film.mfg.de)

This is mostly a repayable-on-success loan, not a non-repayable grant — the money is repaid only if the project earns revenue. Difficult to apply directly as a solo creator without a production company.

Start-up BW Pre-Seed

early cash for innovative startups

typically €160,000 from the state + up to €160,000 from a co-investor (together up to €320,000, in exceptional cases up to €640,000)

Who pays

Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Arbeit und Tourismus BW / L-Bank

Who qualifies

Founders of an innovative startup at a very early stage (not yet backed by institutional investors), requiring a private co-investor and a clear connection to Baden-Württemberg.

First step

Contact one of the official Start-up BW Pre-Seed partners (list on startupbw.de) — they guide the entire process together with L-Bank.

Deadline

ongoing (selection in rounds throughout the year)

This is not a grant given freely — you must prove the idea's innovative strength and find a co-investor willing to invest alongside the state. Since 2018, over 250 startups have been funded. Realistic for tech/product startups, not for a classic agency or freelance work.

Startfinanzierung 80

interest-free startup loan first year

Up to €200,000 per founder (up to €800,000 per company), first 12 months interest-free

Who pays

L-Bank via the Hausbank + 80% guarantee from Bürgschaftsbank BW

Who qualifies

Founders, Freiberufler, young companies in their first 5 years of operation - your ~1-year-old Gewerbe qualifies.

First step

Submit a request through your Hausbank, referencing the L-Bank Startfinanzierung 80 product.

Deadline

ongoing

Functionally overlaps with KfW StartGeld (choose one depending on which bank is willing to submit the application) - also a LOAN with repayment, not a grant. Requires a partner bank willing to file the application.

Stiftung Kunstfonds – KUNSTFONDS_Stipendium

six-month stipend for artists

€18,000 over 6 months (paid monthly)

Who pays

Stiftung Kunstfonds Bonn

Who qualifies

Professional artists/artist duos working full-time and independently, with primary residence in Germany; not for students or employees (except mini-job holders).

First step

Watch for the next call for applications at kunstfonds.de (next deadline usually mid-January) and apply via bewerbung.kunstfonds.de.

Deadline

Deadline 15.01.2026 has passed, next cycle January 2027

More suited to classic visual artists (painting/sculpture/photography), not marketing video content. No repeat funding possible for 15 years after receiving a scholarship from this foundation.

Stoffentwicklungsförderung – FFF Bayern

money to develop a screenplay

up to €30,000 (fiction films/series), up to €20,000 (documentaries), up to €10,000 (treatment only)

Who pays

FFF Bayern (Filmförderfonds Bayern)

Who qualifies

Writers with finished material or adaptation rights + a letter of intent from a Bavarian producer willing to realize the project; for documentaries, a convincing concept treatment.

First step

Contact curator Dr. Silvia Tiedtke (silvia.tiedtke@fff-bayern.de, +49 89 544602-18) BEFORE applying, then submit the application via the online portal fff-bayern.de before the deadline.

Deadline

Upcoming deadlines: 01.–15.06.2026 (committee 29.07), 07.–21.09.2026 (committee 11.11)

Prior contact with the curator is mandatory — without it, the application may not be considered. A Bavarian production partner is required for fiction films; pure screenwriting without a producer is more difficult.

Talentfilmförderung des Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

funding for debut and short films

up to €25,000 (story development), up to €50,000 (project development), up to €40,000 (short film production), up to €500,000 (feature-length debut)

Who pays

Kuratorium junger deutscher Film (foundation, supported by all 16 federal states + BKM)

Who qualifies

Young directors/producers (debut or early works), creators of artistically valuable short films or children's/youth films — no mandatory tie to a single federal state, the quality of the material is what counts.

First step

Email info@kjdf.org or visit kuratorium-junger-film.de/talentfilm, choose the relevant webinar (e.g. 19.08.2026 ahead of the short-film deadline), and submit the application via the foundation's official form.

Deadline

Story development — 29.07.2026, 18:00; project development/feature film — 12.08.2026, 18:00; short film production — 23.09.2026, 18:00

A highly competitive foundation (Wenders and Tykwer started here); requires strong artistic material rather than a commercial project. No registration in a specific federal state is needed — it's a nationwide foundation. The money is a grant, not a loan.

Women TechEU

eu grant for women-led startups

€75,000 non-repayable funding + mentoring and networking

Who pays

European Innovation Council (EIC), European Commission

Who qualifies

Startup registered in the EU, 6-60 months old, founded/led by a woman (CEO/CTO) holding ≥25% of shares, deep-tech sector (TRL 4-6)

First step

Apply for the eligibility check stage via the womentecheurope.eu portal (weekly cut-off deadlines)

Deadline

2026-2028 round, weekly eligibility cut-offs, full application — 4 deadlines per year

Only for deep-tech / science-technology startups, not for service or consulting businesses; highly competitive (160 places for all of Europe)

bundesweite gründerinnenagentur (bga)

free advice for women founders

free of charge

Who pays

bga / Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy

Who qualifies

Any woman in Germany planning or already running her own business — access to over 375 advisors, coaches, and networks

First step

Visit gruenderinnenagentur.de, find a nearby advisor via the database, or use the free AI trainer Kite to prepare for the bank conversation

Deadline

ongoing

Not a cash grant but a network of free advice — useful as a first step before applying for the Gründungszuschuss or a loan

§ 16c SGB II – Leistungen zur Eingliederung von Selbständigen

money for gear if self-employed

Grant (Zuschuss) for equipment/materials up to a maximum of €5,000; loan (Darlehen) with no statutory limit; consulting/training costs paid to third parties are covered separately

Who pays

Jobcenter

Who qualifies

Current or prospective self-employed individuals receiving Grundsicherungsgeld; the business must be economically viable and remove the need for benefits within a reasonable period.

First step

Submit a concrete list of the required equipment/materials to the Jobcenter BEFORE purchasing, adding an IHK/HWK viability assessment if needed.

Deadline

ongoing

Jobcenter's discretion — often refused if Einstiegsgeld or other start-up funding was already received. Buying equipment BEFORE approval means losing the right to reimbursement. Practical details are provided by the IHK Fördermittelkompass (e.g. IHK Leipzig).

Anerkennungszuschuss

money to certify your foreign diploma

Up to €600 for the recognition/assessment procedure of the qualification + up to €3,000 for accompanying qualification measures (translations, adaptation courses, exams, travel/accommodation costs)

Who pays

Bundesministerium für Bildung / f-bb via the IQ network

Who qualifies

Qualification obtained abroad, main residence in Germany, annual gross income ≤€32,000 (single) / ≤€50,000 (couples).

First step

Contact an advisory center of the „Integration durch Qualifizierung“ (IQ) network BEFORE submitting the recognition application.

Deadline

Applications accepted until 30.06.2027, payments until 30.09.2028

The application MUST be submitted before the recognition procedure begins — costs already incurred are not reimbursed retroactively.

Aufstiegs-BAföG (AFBG, "Meister-BAföG")

grant plus loan for advanced qualification

Up to €15,000 for the course: 50% non-repayable grant + 50% low-interest KfW loan; full maintenance allowance for single applicants €1,019/month — fully as a grant; €150/month per child up to age 14 (regardless of income)

Who pays

Amt für Ausbildungsförderung + KfW (loan portion)

Who qualifies

For those preparing for a master craftsman/technician/specialist-level qualification beyond initial vocational training; not dependent on age or citizenship, residence status is decisive.

First step

Submit an application at the local Amt für Ausbildungsförderung or online via aufstiegs-bafoeg.de.

Deadline

ongoing

The maintenance allowance (Unterhaltsbeitrag) for full-time measures is a full grant, no repayment required. Up to €2,000 additional for project materials.

Aufstiegsstipendium (SBB)

grant for first degree after work

€992/month + €80 for books in full-time study; €3,045/year for part-time/concurrent study; +€160/month per child up to age 14

Who pays

Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung (SBB)

Who qualifies

Professionals with completed vocational training (Ausbildung) and work experience who want to pursue a first university degree; a selection process/recommendation is required.

First step

Submit the application at sbb-stipendien.de by the next application deadline.

Deadline

Applications accepted annually until June 1

The funding is a flat rate (Pauschale), independent of income. A good bridge for migrant professionals with vocational training who want to pursue higher education.

BAföG (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz)

student grant plus loan for studies

Up to a maximum of €992/month (2026, including housing and health insurance supplement); for universities — 50% grant / 50% interest-free loan

Who pays

Amt für Ausbildungsförderung (Studentenwerk)

Who qualifies

Students at universities/schools; non-EU citizens require a specific residence status (e.g. Niederlassungserlaubnis or certain §§ 23–25 AufenthG after a defined period of residence).

First step

Apply through the Amt für Ausbildungsförderung of your Studentenwerk or online via BAföG-Digital.

Deadline

ongoing

No rate increase in 2026 — the next adjustment is planned for the 2027 summer semester. For migrants, eligibility depends on the type and duration of the residence permit (§ 8 BAföG) — check individually.

Bildungsgutschein (§ 81 SGB III)

free retraining course for the unemployed

Up to 100% of the cost of an AZAV-certified course (training, exams, materials, travel, childcare during the course) + Weiterbildungsgeld €150/month for courses with a certificate + bonuses of €1,000 (interim exam) and €1,500 (final exam)

Who pays

Agentur für Arbeit / Jobcenter

Who qualifies

Unemployed persons or those threatened by unemployment within 3 months; the course must take place with an AZAV-certified provider. Since 2025, Jobcenter clients also apply through the Agentur für Arbeit.

First step

Book a consultation appointment at the Agentur für Arbeit / Jobcenter and request a check of eligibility for a Bildungsgutschein.

Deadline

ongoing

This is a discretionary benefit (Ermessensleistung) — there is no automatic entitlement, the decision lies with the caseworker. The issued voucher is usually valid for 3 months.

Bildungsscheck 2.0 NRW

covers half your course cost

up to €500 (50% of course costs)

Who pays

State of NRW / ESF, via the Bezirksregierungen (including Arnsberg)

Who qualifies

Resident in NRW, taxable annual income ≤ €50,000 (≤ €100,000 for couples), one application per calendar year

First step

Register the chosen course on the NRW ESF portal at least 1 day before it starts (the course must not have begun yet)

Deadline

ongoing (new program since 1 February 2026)

The application must be submitted BEFORE the course starts, otherwise it will be rejected. After the course, upload the certificate, invoice, and tax assessment (no older than 2 years).

Bildungszeit (BW) / Bildungsurlaub (andere Bundesländer)

paid days off for learning

5 paid working days per year in addition to regular leave (BW); in other federal states from 0 days (Bavaria, Saxony — no law) up to 10 days over 2 years

Who pays

Employer (entitlement regulated by state law)

Who qualifies

Employees (full-/part-time, usually from 6 months of employment) are entitled to paid days for recognized education/further training measures.

First step

Submit a written request to the employer at least 9 weeks before the course starts (BW rule).

Deadline

ongoing

STATE LAW — depends on the Bundesland; in BW (Freiburg) 5 days/year apply. Unused days expire; accumulation of up to 10 days is not provided for in BW.

Bonusprogramm der Krankenkasse (§ 65a SGB V)

cash bonus for healthy habits

Cash bonuses/reimbursements for prevention and a healthy lifestyle — from a few dozen to several hundred € per year, depending on the insurer

Who pays

Gesetzliche Krankenkasse (statutory health insurer)

Who qualifies

Everyone with statutory health insurance; the bonus is awarded for participating in prevention, sport, and check-ups (via a bonus app/booklet).

First step

Activate the bonus programme in your Krankenkasse's app/customer portal and collect points for health-promoting activities.

Deadline

ongoing

The amount and form of the bonus vary widely between insurers (cash, vouchers, discount). A small but easy-to-claim benefit. Check the terms of your specific insurer.

DAFI-Stipendium (Deutsche Akademische Flüchtlingsinitiative Albert Einstein)

full scholarship for refugee students

full coverage: tuition fees + living costs, health insurance, travel, books

Who pays

UNHCR Germany (funded by the Auswärtiges Amt)

Who qualifies

People with recognised refugee/protection status who want to start or continue university studies in the host country.

First step

Contact UNHCR Germany or UNO-Flüchtlingshilfe for the current application procedure in your region.

Deadline

annual intake, deadlines announced in autumn/spring — inquire directly

The largest and oldest scholarship programme for refugees worldwide. A strong option for holders of protection status intending to study, but requires current refugee status (not just §24).

Deutschlandstipendium

merit scholarship for students

€300/month (independent of family income, not counted as income for BAföG)

Who pays

Federal Ministry of Education and Research + private sponsors (via the university)

Who qualifies

Students at any German university with strong academic performance, civic engagement, or special life circumstances (e.g. migration, overcoming hardship). Application is through the individual university, not centralized.

First step

Check the student affairs website of the specific university ("Deutschlandstipendium" + university name) and submit the online form + motivation letter + CV + transcript by their deadline (usually autumn/spring).

Deadline

depends on the university, usually 1-2 times a year

The €300/month isn't counted as income for BAföG — a favorable combination. Deadlines and procedures differ by university, so this isn't a universal application but a check specific to each institution.

ESF Plus Förderprogramm Fachkurse (Baden-Württemberg)

subsidy for professional training courses

30-70% of course costs, up to €6,000 excl. VAT per course

Who pays

L-Bank / Land Baden-Württemberg (ESF Plus)

Who qualifies

Employed people, self-employed/freelancers, and business founders with a place of work/residence in Baden-Württemberg (including Freiburg)

First step

Find an accredited course provider in the ESF-BW ELAN portal and book the course with automatic subsidy deduction from the invoice

Deadline

ongoing, new rates from 01.09.2026 (flat rate 45%)

The course must last 8-160 teaching hours and be completed within 6 months. The application is submitted by the course provider itself — no separate application needed. Especially relevant for Freiburg/BW, less known outside the region.

Erasmus+ Berufsbildung: Mobilität (Auslandspraktika)

funds vocational internship abroad

Coverage of travel, accommodation, and pocket-money costs during the internship

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / NA beim BIBB

Who qualifies

Vocational trainees/students as well as graduates (up to 12 months after completion) via an accredited institution

First step

Check availability via the meinauslandspraktikum.de portal or contact a Berufsschule/IHK partner with Erasmus+ accreditation

Deadline

ongoing, institutions apply per annual NA-BIBB calendar

The easiest entry point is the meinauslandspraktikum.de portal, which connects individual internship seekers with accredited organizations.

Erasmus+ Erwachsenenbildung: Mobilität für Lernende

funds adult learning trips abroad

Coverage of travel, accommodation, and course costs (amount depends on country and duration)

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / NA beim BIBB

Who qualifies

Adult learners via an adult-education provider (VHS, language schools, etc.); priority given to participants from Ukraine

First step

Contact the local Volkshochschule or adult-education institution and ask about participating in an Erasmus+ mobility project

Deadline

Organizations apply per NA-BIBB calendar, next call in 2026

Individual applications are not possible — a hosting organization is required. Course search can start via VHS Freiburg or similar institutions.

Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung – Studienförderung

scholarship for socially engaged students

up to €992/month (BAföG level) + €300/month Studienkostenpauschale, up to €1,350/month for doctoral candidates

Who pays

Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung

Who qualifies

Students with proof of enrollment, above-average grades, and civic/political engagement (not necessarily party-affiliated); first-generation students and those with migration experience are explicitly welcomed.

First step

Submit an online application at fes.de/studienfoerderung/bewerbung with a CV, motivation letter, and proof of enrollment; international students need German at C1 level.

Deadline

ongoing (twice a year, deadlines on the website)

Explicitly states it welcomes first-generation students and people with migration experience — a good fit. C1 German is required for foreigners, which is currently a limit for Heidar (B2) — more relevant for a child/partner with a higher language level.

Garantiefonds Hochschule (Otto Benecke Stiftung)

help migrants prepare for university

~€830/month scholarship, up to 30 months of support (language courses, university preparation)

Who pays

Otto Benecke Stiftung e.V. (implements the programme on behalf of the Bundesministerium für Familie)

Who qualifies

Young migrants/refugees/late repatriates who want to obtain university admission, prepare for enrolment, or continue an interrupted course of study in Germany.

First step

Book a consultation at the nearest OBS branch (Bonn/Köln/Berlin) via the contact form on obs-ev.de.

Deadline

ongoing (intake and consultations year-round, specific cohorts depend on region)

Best suited if the goal is to obtain a German degree or diploma recognition — covers language preparation and a scholarship during studies. Ask directly for details; the website does not show the full amount online.

Hamburger Weiterbildungsbonus PLUS

subsidy for job training

up to €750 (standard, 40-50%), up to €1,000 for craft businesses, up to 90% for creative coaching

Who pays

Zwei P GmbH (on behalf of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg / ESF)

Who qualifies

Employees working ≥15 hrs/week at companies with up to 249 employees, OR self-employed individuals residing or based in Hamburg

First step

Submit the application via the Zwei P online portal before the course starts (minimum 8 hours of instruction required)

Deadline

ongoing

One bonus per calendar year. Formal educational qualifications, apprenticeships, and general language courses are excluded.

Hans-Böckler-Stiftung – Stipendium für Studierende

monthly scholarship for students

up to €992/month (BAföG level) + €300/month Studienkostenpauschale

Who pays

Hans-Böckler-Stiftung (DGB)

Who qualifies

Students who are fundamentally eligible for BAföG, with at least 3 semesters of study remaining, up to age 45 at the start, ideally with union or civic engagement.

First step

Submit an online application via boeckler.de (form + motivation letter about civic engagement); deadlines are updated twice a year.

Deadline

ongoing (check the current application window on the website)

A DGB trade-union-affiliated fund — an advantage if there's already some union or civic activity. A genuinely substantial amount at BAföG level, worth applying for a student in the family.

Meisterprämie Baden-Württemberg

bonus for passing master exam

€1,500 one-time

Who pays

Ministerium für Wirtschaft, Handwerk und Tourismus BW / Handwerkskammern

Who qualifies

Passed Meisterprüfung (Annex A or B1 of the Handwerksordnung) after January 1, 2020, primary residence or employment in BW at the time of the exam result.

First step

Contact your regional Handwerkskammer (for Freiburg: hwk-freiburg.de) for the application form right after receiving your exam result.

Deadline

ongoing

Only for skilled trades (Handwerk) with a completed Meisterprüfung — not applicable to standard management/marketing profiles. Payment is made not directly by the state but by the responsible Handwerkskammer at the place of residence/work.

Netzwerk IQ – Fachstelle Anerkennung und Qualifizierung

free help recognizing foreign diploma

free consultation (not a grant, but saves hundreds of euros on diploma recognition)

Who pays

Netzwerk Integration durch Qualifizierung (BMAS + ESF Plus)

Who qualifies

Anyone with foreign education/qualifications who wants to get their diploma recognized in Germany for work or business.

First step

Find the regional contact point on netzwerk-iq.de (by Bundesland) and book a free consultation.

Deadline

ongoing

Not direct money, but for PM/production roles a recognized diploma strengthens the CV and opens doors to regulated professions. Free, worth doing once.

Präventionskurse (§ 20 SGB V)

free health and fitness courses

The Krankenkasse reimburses approx. 75–100% of the cost of 2 certified courses per year (movement, nutrition, stress, smoking cessation)

Who pays

Gesetzliche Krankenkasse (statutory health insurer)

Who qualifies

Everyone with statutory health insurance; the course must be certified under § 20 SGB V (ZPP-approved).

First step

Choose a certified course (marked "ZPP-geprüft" or from your Krankenkasse's own catalogue), complete it, and submit the receipt for reimbursement.

Deadline

ongoing

Reimbursement terms (share, number of courses, maximum amount) vary by Krankenkasse — check with your own insurer. Many insurers have their own online course catalogues.

QualiScheck Rheinland-Pfalz

covers part of course costs

up to €1,500 per year (60% of course costs)

Who pays

Ministerium für Arbeit, Soziales, Transformation und Digitalisierung RLP / ESF Plus

Who qualifies

Employed individuals with primary residence or workplace in Rhineland-Palatinate, no income limit

First step

Submit the application via the EurekaRLP Plus system at least 1 month before the training starts

Deadline

ongoing

No income limit — unlike the NRW version. The application must be submitted BEFORE the course starts, one month in advance.

Qualifizierungsbonus Bremen

money for each training month

€200 for each month of training participation started

Who pays

Senator for Labour, Social Affairs, Youth and Integration Bremen / Arbeitnehmerkammer Bremen

Who qualifies

Low-skilled workers undertaking training via a Bildungsgutschein, residing or working in Bremen

First step

Contact the Arbeitnehmerkammer Bremen or the Agentur für Arbeit to arrange the Bildungsgutschein plus the bonus

Deadline

Program launched July 1, 2026

Brand-new program (since 01.07.2026), still little known. Combined with the federal Bildungsgutschein, not with separate employer funds.

Qualifizierungsgeld (Qualifizierungschancengesetz)

pay while retraining to keep job

60% (67% with children) of the last net salary during the training + funding of the course itself for the company (25–100% depending on company size, +5% with a collective agreement)

Who pays

Agentur für Arbeit (application filed by the employer)

Who qualifies

Job at risk due to digitalization/AI/decarbonization; the application is filed by the EMPLOYER, not by the employee.

First step

Discuss with the employer/HR — the company must file the application with the Agentur für Arbeit at least 3 months before the course starts.

Deadline

ongoing

The employee does not file the application themselves — it depends on the employer's willingness. Useful as an argument in conversation with HR, not as a standalone application.

SABA-Bildungsstipendium (Crespo Foundation)

scholarship to finish school as adult

coverage of school and transport costs + budget for tutoring, materials, childcare

Who pays

Crespo Foundation together with beramí e.V.

Who qualifies

Adults with migration/refugee background who want to complete a school-leaving certificate (second chance education); women can apply remotely from anywhere in Germany.

First step

Contact the program coordinator: for women (nationwide) — Sarah Schreiner, schreiner@berami.de.

Deadline

ongoing, confirm directly with beramí e.V.

Up to 3 years of support, including childcare — relevant if no one in the family has yet completed a German school certificate. For men, the program is tied to the Rhein-Main region (Frankfurt).

START – Das Schülerstipendienprogramm für Jugendliche mit Migrationsgeschichte

scholarship for migrant school students

≈€3,500 total over 3 years + courses/coaching

Who pays

START-Stiftung gGmbH

Who qualifies

Students aged 14–20 with a migration background (themselves or at least one parent), good school performance, motivation; family income is taken into account.

First step

Register at start-campus.de from 01.02.2026 and submit the online application by 17.03.2026 (last 2 report cards, a recommendation, copy of passport/residence permit, proof of family income).

Deadline

2026-03-17

Relevant if there's a teenager aged 14–20 in Heidar's family attending school in Germany. A 3-year mentoring programme, not a one-time payout — a commitment, but a real and strong asset for the child.

Stiftung der Deutschen Wirtschaft – Studienförderwerk Klaus Murmann

scholarship for entrepreneurial students

up to €855/month (needs-based) + €300/month Studienkostenpauschale + bonuses for insurance/children

Who pays

Stiftung der Deutschen Wirtschaft (sdw)

Who qualifies

Full-time students with at least 4 semesters of study remaining (bachelor's + master's combined); international students are accepted if they meet the BAföG §8 criteria.

First step

Submit an online application via the sdw.org portal (from a computer, not a phone) — after preselection, a structured interview of about 75 minutes follows.

Deadline

ongoing (several application rounds per year)

Geared toward an entrepreneurial/leadership profile — fits well with Heidar's positioning (founder/PM). If the scholarship doesn't fit him as a participant in the McKinsey program (McKinsey Forward isn't an academic program), keep it in mind for a child/partner or a future course of study.

Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes – Selbstbewerbung mit Auswahltest

scholarship for gifted students

up to €300/month (Studienkostenpauschale) + up to €855/month depending on family income

Who pays

Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes

Who qualifies

Students in the 1st–2nd semester of a bachelor's degree at a German university; grades don't matter for self-application — the cognitive test and motivation essay count. Citizenship not required.

First step

Submit the self-application online at studienstiftung.de by 12.02.2026, after first attending the free Zoom info day (27.01 or 02.02.2026).

Deadline

by 2026-02-12

Germany's most prestigious scholarship, highly competitive (cognitive test + selection seminar in summer 2026). Relevant if a family member is in their 1st–2nd semester of studies. Not about money now — a long-term asset for a child/partner.

Weiterbildungsstipendium (SBB)

training money for top young professionals

Up to €9,135 over 3 years (maximum €3,045 per calendar year) for further training costs

Who pays

Stiftung Begabtenförderung berufliche Bildung (SBB) via IHK/HWK

Who qualifies

Young professionals, usually up to age 24 (extension possible) with an excellent vocational exam result (87+ points/grade 1.9 or better) or a recommendation from the employer or vocational school; without a university degree.

First step

Obtain a recommendation from the employer, vocational school, or IHK/HWK and submit the application at sbb-stipendien.de.

Deadline

ongoing

Not available for those who already hold a university degree. A good option for young people with a completed Ausbildung in Germany.

Bayerisches Familiengeld

monthly money for toddlers

from €250/month per child, from the 13th to the 36th month of the child's life

Who pays

ZBFS – Zentrum Bayern Familie und Soziales

Who qualifies

Residence in Bavaria, child born before December 31, 2024, child aged 13-36 months

First step

If you already received Elterngeld, no separate application is needed; otherwise, submit an online application at zbfs.bayern.de no earlier than 3 months before payments begin

Deadline

ongoing

Applies only to children born before the end of 2024 — for younger children the program was replaced at the federal level; not to be confused with Elterngeld/Kindergeld

Beitragsbefreiung/-ermäßigung KiTa (§ 90 SGB VIII)

free or cheaper daycare

Full or partial coverage of daycare fees for low-income families; in many states, the last year of Kita is free for everyone

Who pays

Jugendamt / municipality

Who qualifies

Families for whom daycare fees are unaffordable (low income, social benefits); criteria and amounts depend on the state/municipality.

First step

Contact the Jugendamt or the daycare administration and apply for Beitragsbefreiung under § 90 SGB VIII, attaching proof of income.

Deadline

ongoing

The legal basis is federal (§ 90 SGB VIII), but specific amounts/thresholds are set at the state and municipal level; for social benefit recipients, often a full exemption. "Check with your own municipality."

Bildung und Teilhabe (BuT)

covers school costs and kids' activities

School supplies €195/year (€65 in spring + €130 in autumn); social participation (clubs/sports) €15/month; plus actual costs for outings, school trips, transport, learning support, and school lunches

Who pays

Jobcenter or the city/district social welfare office (depending on the primary benefit)

Who qualifies

Children and young people in families receiving Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung, Sozialhilfe, Wohngeld, Kinderzuschlag, or Asylbewerberleistungen.

First step

Apply at the Jobcenter (if the family receives Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung) or at the city/district social welfare office (if the primary benefit is Wohngeld/Kinderzuschlag/Asylbewerberleistungen).

Deadline

ongoing

Not paid out automatically as a single package — each component (outing, club, lunch) often requires a separate application or proof.

Bundesstiftung Mutter und Kind – Schutz des ungeborenen Lebens

one-time help for pregnant women

up to a few hundred € (one-time, for baby items, maternity clothing, nursery equipment; sometimes an interest-free loan for moving/training)

Who pays

BMBFSFJ / Bundesstiftung Mutter und Kind (via pregnancy counseling centers)

Who qualifies

For pregnant women (or mothers in late pregnancy) with low income living in Germany — regardless of marital or residence status.

First step

Find a Schwangerschaftsberatungsstelle nearby via familienplanung.de or dajeb.de — the application is submitted there, not directly to the foundation.

Deadline

Application only possible before birth; afterward ongoing, once per pregnancy per year

The foundation does not accept applications itself or decide directly — everything goes through the counseling center. One application per pregnancy. Good supplementary channel if there is a pregnancy or infant in the family.

Caritasverband Freiburg-Stadt e.V. — Finanzielle Notlage / Caritassozialdienst mit Schuldnerberatung

free help in financial hardship

free counseling + access to church/episcopal emergency-aid funds (Bischöflicher Fonds — up to approx. 1,500 families/mothers per year in the archdiocese); amounts individual

Who pays

Caritasverband Freiburg-Stadt e.V.

Who qualifies

Residents of Freiburg and the surrounding region with financial difficulties, debts, risk of losing housing, or family/child needs.

First step

Book an appointment with the Caritassozialdienst in Freiburg (phone/online form) — the counselor assesses the situation and, if needed, applies to the church emergency-aid fund.

Deadline

ongoing

The most local and physically fastest channel for Heidar (Freiburg). The website does not publish exact amounts or criteria — everything is decided individually in the consultation, so the key is to show up and ask directly.

Die Chancenstiftung – Bildungspaten für Deutschland

free tutoring for low-income kids

free: individual tutoring 2x/week over one year (no monetary equivalent, it is a service)

Who pays

Die Chancenstiftung (Frankfurt am Main)

Who qualifies

School children/teenagers whose parents have low income and can prove it with a document (Bürgergeld-Bescheid, ALG, Wohngeld, BAföG, etc.).

First step

Email info@chancenstiftung.de or use the contact form on chancenstiftung.de to request the application form for scholarship holders (Für Stipendiat*innen), and attach a motivation letter + proof of income.

Deadline

ongoing (applications accepted year-round)

This is not direct money for the family, but free support for the child at school — it removes tutoring costs and psychological pressure from the parents. A good addition if there is a struggling school-age child in the family.

Elterngeld (Basiselterngeld / ElterngeldPlus)

income while on parental leave

Basis: €300–1,800/month (65% of net income before birth); Plus: €150–900/month over twice the period

Who pays

Elterngeldstelle (administered at state/district level)

Who qualifies

Parents with a child, generally up to 14 months of age (with shared allocation of the payment periods); income limit €175,000/year per couple (since April 2025).

First step

Apply online via ElterngeldDigital or familienportal.de after the child's birth.

Deadline

ongoing

Amounts remain unchanged in 2026. The minimum of €300/month is paid even without prior income (students, unemployed) — important for newcomers without work history in Germany.

Kindergeld

money for every child

€259/month per child (from January 2026, +€4 over the previous rate)

Who pays

Familienkasse

Who qualifies

Parents/guardians of children generally up to age 18 (up to age 25 while in education/job-seeking); the base payment is not income-dependent.

First step

Apply online or via app with the Familienkasse; often done together with registering the child's birth.

Deadline

ongoing

For migrants, entitlement depends on the parents' residence status — check individually if recently arrived.

Kindernothilfefonds des Deutschen Kinderhilfswerks

emergency help for children in crisis

one-time assistance for a specific, unforeseen need (amount at the fund's discretion; examples — school fees, medical costs for the child, household appliances)

Who pays

Deutsches Kinderhilfswerk e.V.

Who qualifies

Families with children in a sudden financial crisis, when the Jobcenter/state agencies cannot help quickly enough.

First step

Assemble a complete package: a supporting letter from a recognized social service (e.g., Caritas/Diakonie/Jugendamt) + income statements + copy of ID, and send to kindernothilfefonds@dkhw.de.

Deadline

ongoing

Only complete applications are accepted — without a supporting letter from a social service, the application is not even reviewed. First it must be proven that the Jobcenter has been contacted and state support was insufficient or too slow.

Kinderzuschlag

extra child money for low earners

up to €297/month per child (2026), including a Sofortzuschlag of €25/month

Who pays

Familienkasse (Agentur für Arbeit)

Who qualifies

Parents with a minimum gross income of €900 (couples) / €600 (single parents), where Kinderzuschlag + Kindergeld + possible Wohngeld cover the family's needs so that Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung is not required.

First step

Apply online via the Familienkasse website (Kinderzuschlag section, online application).

Deadline

ongoing

Often overlooked by families near the income threshold — more favorable than Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung, since the asset assessment is less strict and there are no cooperation-related sanctions.

Landesfamilienpass Baden-Württemberg

free family attractions all year

free or discounted admission to 140+ venues (theme parks, swimming pools, castles) for the entire year 2026

Who pays

Sozialministerium Baden-Württemberg / local municipality

Who qualifies

Families with 3+ dependent children OR with 1 child under special circumstances (Bürgergeld, child with a disability, Kinderzuschlag) and residence in Baden-Württemberg

First step

Visit the Jugendamt/Bürgeramt of your municipality in BW with proof of income/status and receive the pass + voucher card 2026

Deadline

ongoing

Only valid for residents of Baden-Württemberg; each municipality issues it separately — bring proof of income

Landesstiftung „Familie in Not“ Baden-Württemberg

emergency help for struggling families

one-time assistance (amount individual, at the fund's discretion; interest-free loans also possible) — not guaranteed, discretionary

Who pays

Land Baden-Württemberg (administered via counseling services, incl. Caritas/Diakonie)

Who qualifies

Families, single parents, or couples with children in BW facing an emergency (illness, disability, death of a partner, unemployment, accident, loss of housing), when state support and own resources are insufficient.

First step

Contact a counseling service (Caritas, Diakonie, Schwangerschaftsberatung, or the city social office) in Freiburg — they submit the application to the fund; individuals do not apply directly.

Deadline

ongoing

This is the most relevant state fund specifically for Freiburg/BW. There is no legal entitlement to payment — the decision is discretionary (§53 AO), so it is important to clearly show that all statutory benefits (Bürgergeld, Wohngeld, etc.) have already been received/exhausted.

Mutterschaftsgeld / Mutterschaftsleistungen

pay around childbirth

Up to €13/day from the Krankenkasse during the protection period (6 weeks before + 8 weeks after birth) + employer top-up up to net salary level; for uninsured persons, a one-time payment of up to €210 from BAS

Who pays

Krankenkasse (+ employer top-up) / Bundesamt für Soziale Sicherung

Who qualifies

Pregnant employees who have statutory health insurance; applies during Mutterschutz (protection periods before and after birth).

First step

Ask your doctor/midwife for a certificate of the expected due date and submit it to your Krankenkasse; inform your employer about the top-up.

Deadline

ongoing

Can be combined with Elterngeld afterward. For privately insured/uninsured persons, there is a separate route via the Bundesamt für Soziale Sicherung (one-time payment).

Sächsisches Landeserziehungsgeld

pay for raising toddler at home

up to €300/month, maximum 12 months (child's 2nd or 3rd year of life)

Who pays

Landkreis / Kreisfreie Stadt (Saxony)

Who qualifies

Main residence in Saxony, child does not attend a state-subsidized childcare facility, employment not more than 30 hrs/week

First step

Submit a written application to the Landratsamt/city administration at your place of residence (form available on amt24.sachsen.de), no earlier than 3 months before payments are due to start

Deadline

ongoing

Payment is made retroactively only for the month prior to application — do not apply late

Unterhaltsvorschuss (UhVorschG)

state pays missing child support

Approximately ~€230/month (children 0–5), ~€300 (6–11), ~€395 (12–17) — based on the current year's Mindestunterhalt, minus Kindergeld

Who pays

Jugendamt / Unterhaltsvorschusskasse

Who qualifies

Single parents whose child's other parent pays no (or insufficient) child support; the child is under 18 and lives in Germany.

First step

Submit an application to the local Jugendamt (Unterhaltsvorschusskasse); an online form is often available on the city's/state's website.

Deadline

ongoing

Paid until age 18; from age 12 additional conditions apply regarding the child's/parents' income. The amount is reduced by the full Kindergeld.

Befreiung vom Rundfunkbeitrag

no tv-radio fee for you

Full exemption from €18.36/month; or a reduction if income exceeds the social-benefit threshold by less than €18.36

Who pays

ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice

Who qualifies

Recipients of Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung, Sozialhilfe, BAföG, Asylbewerberleistungen, and other defined social benefits; the exemption is NOT automatic.

First step

Download the application form at rundfunkbeitrag.de, attach a copy of the benefit decision (Bescheid), and send it to the Beitragsservice by post or online.

Deadline

ongoing

Retroactive exemption of up to 3 years is possible with older Bescheide. An indefinite Bescheid grants exemption for a maximum of 3 years, after which the application must be renewed.

Erstausstattung für die Wohnung (§ 24 Abs. 3 SGB II)

money to furnish your first home

One-off grant for furniture/household appliances/dishes when first furnishing a home; amount depends on the municipality's flat rate (Pauschale)

Who pays

Jobcenter

Who qualifies

Recipients of Grundsicherungsgeld (formerly Bürgergeld) who are furnishing a home for the first time or have lost their belongings (moving from a shelter, after a fire/divorce).

First step

Submit a separate application for Erstausstattung to the Jobcenter BEFORE buying anything; request a formal decision (Bescheid), since this is separate from the monthly benefit.

Deadline

ongoing

This is NOT a loan — it's a separate one-off grant on top of the regular benefit (§ 24 Abs. 3 SGB II). Paid out as a flat rate or in kind; purchases made before approval are not reimbursed.

Förderung selbst genutzten Wohneigentums (Wohnungsbau BW)

cheap loan for your own home

up to €292,000 loan (family with 1 child), +€17,000 for each additional child, +€50,000 for an energy-efficient home

Who pays

L-Bank / Ministerium für Landesentwicklung und Wohnen BW

Who qualifies

Couples/single parents with at least 1 child in the household (or people with severe disabilities), income below the set threshold, no suitable owned housing, purchase/construction in BW.

First step

Check the income thresholds and submit the application online via L-Bank (l-bank.de), ideally with support from a partner bank or a housing-finance advisor.

Deadline

ongoing

Since January 1, 2026, the amounts have been raised to record levels (total 2025/26 budget — €1.5 billion, the state's share rose from 35% to 60%). This is a low-interest LOAN, not a grant — it must be repaid, but at a low interest rate. Suitable for families with children considering home ownership instead of renting.

Hessengeld

cash for first home purchase

€10,000 per buyer (max. €20,000 per family) + €5,000 per child under 18, paid out in 10 equal annual instalments

Who pays

WIBank / State of Hesse

Who qualifies

First-time purchase of owner-occupied residential property in Hesse; non-repayable grant capped at the Grunderwerbsteuer paid

First step

Submit an online application to WIBank before or immediately after purchasing the property

Deadline

ongoing

The grant covers at most the amount of Grunderwerbsteuer paid; particularly beneficial for families with children

Mietzuschuss in Sozialwohnungen (IBB Berlin)

rent top-up in social housing

up to 50% of gross warm rent, up to €6.58/m² depending on income level, up to 24 months

Who pays

Investitionsbank Berlin (IBB)

Who qualifies

Tenants of social housing (1. Förderweg) in Berlin whose rent exceeds 30% of income; SGB II/XII recipients may also apply after the Kostensenkungsverfahren

First step

Send the completed application together with income and rent proof to mietzuschuss-sozibau@ibb.de or by post to IBB

Deadline

ongoing

Applies only to social housing (not regular private housing) in Berlin; rent increases above €0.10/m² or income changes above 5% must be reported

NRW.BANK Eigentumsförderung – Wohneigentum für Familien

cheap loan for family home

up to €184,000 low-interest loan (0.5% p.a.) + €24,000 bonus per child or person with a disability

Who pays

NRW.BANK

Who qualifies

Families/individuals with low to medium income (checked via the Chancenprüfer), building or first-time purchase of owner-occupied housing in NRW

First step

Check income limits via the online Chancenprüfer on nrwbank.de, then apply through your bank

Deadline

ongoing

This is a loan (not a grant) — creditworthiness is required; the family bonus of €24,000 per child significantly lowers the effective interest rate

Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)

pass to cheaper social housing

Access to cheaper subsidized housing (geförderter Wohnraum) — savings on rent

Who pays

Wohnungsamt / municipality

Who qualifies

Households whose annual income does not exceed the state-specific thresholds; the WBS grants the right to rent subsidized housing.

First step

Apply at the local Wohnungsamt/Bürgeramt (income documentation required); once you have the WBS, look for apartments marked "WBS erforderlich".

Deadline

ongoing

Issued by the municipality — exact income thresholds vary by state. The WBS itself is free; the savings come from the lower rent for subsidized housing.

Wohneigentum für Familien (WEF, KfW 300)

cheap loan for family first home

Low-interest loan of approx. €170,000–270,000, depending on the number of children and energy standard, at a reduced interest rate

Who pays

KfW via your Hausbank

Who qualifies

Families with at least 1 minor child buying/building their FIRST home; taxable annual income up to €90,000 (+€10,000 per additional child).

First step

Contact your Hausbank with the purchase/build project and ask them to submit the application for KfW Programme 300 BEFORE signing the contract.

Deadline

ongoing

This is a LOAN, not a grant. Only for a first home and only with a child in the household. Income and energy-standard limits are strict — for families ready to buy.

Wohngeld (Wohngeld-Plus)

help paying your rent

Calculated individually by formula (income, rent, household size, rent-level category); the formula automatically includes a permanent Heizkostenzuschlag; 2026 rates unchanged (Nullrunde) compared with 2025

Who pays

Wohngeldbehörde (city/district administration)

Who qualifies

Low-income households ABOVE the Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung threshold; under § 12a SGB II, Wohngeld takes priority over Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung if it covers the family's needs for 3+ consecutive months.

First step

Check the approximate amount using the Wohngeldrechner (bmwsb.bund.de), find your Wohngeldbehörde via verwaltung.bund.de, and submit the application.

Deadline

ongoing

§ 12a trap: if Wohngeld (+Kinderzuschlag) does NOT cover the needs of the whole Bedarfsgemeinschaft for 3+ consecutive months, you can remain on Bürgergeld/Grundsicherung instead of being forced to switch to Wohngeld. A separate one-off "Heizkostenzuschuss" (2022 program) no longer exists as a standalone application — the Heizkostenzuschlag is now permanently and automatically included in the Wohngeld formula.

Wohnungsbauprämie (WoPG)

bonus for home savings plan

10% on contributions to a Bausparvertrag: max. base of €700 (single)/€1,400 (couple) per year → up to €70/€140 premium annually

Who pays

Finanzamt via the Bausparkasse

Who qualifies

People aged 16 and over who save into a Bausparvertrag, with taxable income up to €35,000 (single)/€70,000 (couple).

First step

Take out a Bausparvertrag with a Bausparkasse and apply for the premium through the Bausparkasse every year.

Deadline

ongoing (apply annually)

A long-term instrument — the premium is tied to using the funds for housing purposes. Can be combined with the Arbeitnehmer-Sparzulage for vermögenswirksame Leistungen.

Übernahme von Mietschulden (§ 22 Abs. 8 SGB II)

loan to clear rent debt

Coverage of rent/heating debt (usually as a loan) to prevent eviction and homelessness

Who pays

Jobcenter / Sozialamt

Who qualifies

People facing eviction due to rent debt, where keeping the home is justified and homelessness would otherwise result.

First step

IMMEDIATELY upon receiving a Kündigung/Räumungsklage, apply to the Jobcenter/Sozialamt for Übernahme der Mietschulden; in parallel, contact the Fachstelle für Wohnungssicherung.

Deadline

ongoing (act immediately if eviction is threatened)

Usually a repayable loan (Darlehen), rarely a grant. Time is critical: strict deadlines apply after a Räumungsklage. For non-Bürgergeld recipients, the equivalent runs via § 36 SGB XII (Sozialamt).

Berufssprachkurse (DeuFöV)

free advanced german for work

Free with a referral from the Jobcenter/Agentur für Arbeit/BAMF, or if gross income is below 33% of the annual pension-insurance contribution ceiling (+10% per dependent child); 300–400 lesson hours up to level B2 or C1

Who pays

BAMF via accredited language schools

Who qualifies

Continuation after the Integrationskurs (from level B1); free for social-benefit recipients and low-income workers with a migration background.

First step

Contact the Agentur für Arbeit/Jobcenter or an accredited BAMF language school directly for a level test and referral.

Deadline

ongoing

Unlike the Integrationskurs, this course is NOT affected by the § 44 Abs. 4 suspension — it rests on a separate legal basis (DeuFöV-Verordnung), so access remains available.

Erstorientierungskurs (EOK, BAMF)

free basic german for newcomers

Free, ~300 hours of basic language training + orientation

Who pays

BAMF

Who qualifies

Basic German language skills and orientation for newcomers who do NOT yet have access to the full Integrationskurs.

First step

Find an EOK provider via BAMF or ask at the local migration counseling service (MBE/JMD).

Deadline

ongoing

A practical workaround for the Integrationskurs suspension (§ 44 Abs. 4) in 2026 — the EOK remains available and provides basic language training while the full course is unavailable.

Integrationskurs (BAMF)

free german language and integration course

Free for social-benefit recipients and under a Verpflichtung (obligation); others pay a fee per lesson hour (check with BAMF/language school)

Who pays

BAMF

Who qualifies

Entitlement (Anspruch, § 44 Abs. 1 AufenthG) — for those settling long-term; Obligation (Verpflichtung, § 44a) — via referral from the Jobcenter/Ausländerbehörde.

First step

First check the type of entitlement: if you have an Anspruch, submit form 630-007 directly to BAMF; if not, ask the Jobcenter to arrange an obligation (§ 44a Abs. 1 Nr. 2) as a workaround.

Deadline

ongoing, with restricted admission in 2026

CRITICAL: as of 09.02.2026, BAMF has suspended discretionary admission under § 44 Abs. 4 AufenthG "until further notice" for the entire 2026 budget year — affecting roughly 130,000 people/year without automatic entitlement: asylum seekers, people with Duldung, Ukrainians under § 24 without a Jobcenter referral, EU citizens. Practical workaround: arrange access via the Jobcenter (Kooperationsplan) or Ausländerbehörde as an obligation rather than a "free" registration.

Jugendmigrationsdienst (JMD)

free support for young migrants

Free

Who pays

BMFSFJ via providers of independent youth welfare services

Who qualifies

Young people with a migration background aged 12–27: individual support, language and education orientation, help with school, training, or work.

First step

Find the nearest JMD office at jugendmigrationsdienste.de and register.

Deadline

ongoing

The youth counterpart to MBE, ~500 centers across Germany. Free, covers language + education + transition into work.

Mein Weg nach Deutschland (Goethe-Institut)

free online german lessons

Free, online, self-paced

Who pays

Goethe-Institut

Who qualifies

Free online platform for learning German (A1–B1) and everyday orientation — no registration required, open to everyone.

First step

Go to the Goethe-Institut's "Mein Weg nach Deutschland" page and start the free exercises or join the online practice.

Deadline

ongoing

Does not replace an official course or certificate, but is 100% free and available immediately — a good bridge while waiting for the Integrationskurs.

Migrationsberatung für erwachsene Zuwanderer (MBE, § 75 Nr. 9 AufenthG)

free guidance for adult migrants

Free, individual support

Who pays

BAMF via welfare associations (Caritas, Diakonie, AWO, DRK, Paritätischer, ZWST)

Who qualifies

Adults with a migration background aged 27 and over, in the first years after arrival: help choosing language courses, handling paperwork, and orientation within the system.

First step

Find the nearest MBE office on bamf.de (search "Migrationsberatung") or contact Caritas/Diakonie and book a free consultation.

Deadline

ongoing

Not a grant but free guidance — yet the MBE specifically opens access to language courses and bypasses the § 44 Abs. 4 suspension via referral. For those under 27, the equivalent is JMD.

AG Kurzfilm – information and advice for short filmmakers

AG Kurzfilm – Informationen und Beratung für Kurzfilmschaffende

free advice hub for german short film

Free: up-to-date overviews of funding programmes, stipends and residencies for short film in Germany and abroad

Who pays

AG Kurzfilm – Bundesverband Deutscher Kurzfilm

Who qualifies

Anyone working with short film in Germany — regardless of training or experience.

First step

Open the Kurzfilmförderung section on ag-kurzfilm.de and match your project against the list of programmes and deadlines.

Deadline

permanently available

The association is one of the bodies entitled to nominate films for the German Short Film Award — worth having the contact early.

Allgemeine Projektförderung der Kulturstiftung des Bundes

big grants for cultural organizations

from €50,000 per project (minimum application threshold)

Who pays

Kulturstiftung des Bundes

Who qualifies

Only for established organizations/collectives (not for individual beginners), the project must have international scope or federal significance, at least 20% own/third-party funding is required.

First step

Complete the online Förder-Check at kulturstiftung-des-bundes.de to verify the project meets the criteria before applying.

Deadline

31.07.2026 and 31.01.2027, by 12:00 CET

Not suitable for solo freelancers or a starting project — requires a legal organization and a serious budget (min. €50k). Relevant later, once a partner structure exists (e.g. via the Business Encyclopedia as a media project), not now.

Amadeu Antonio Stiftung – project funding

Amadeu Antonio Stiftung – Projektförderung

foundation against racism funding media projects

Project-based funding; supports initiatives against right-wing extremism, racism and antisemitism, including film and media projects

Who pays

Amadeu Antonio Stiftung

Who qualifies

Initiatives, organisations and authors working against right-wing extremism, racism and antisemitism and for democratic culture.

First step

Describe the project and its social impact and contact the foundation directly via the form on their website.

Deadline

no fixed deadline

A thematic foundation: what counts is not cinematic quality as such but the project's social impact.

Art fund of the Baden-Württemberg Stiftung

Kunstfonds der Baden-Württemberg Stiftung

foundation grants for art projects in baden-württemberg

Amounts are set per project; the fund supports non-profit, innovative projects in art and culture

Who pays

Baden-Württemberg Stiftung

Who qualifies

Cultural professionals and organisations with projects in Baden-Württemberg. The project must be non-profit and may not start before the foundation decides.

First step

Wait for the digital application portal to open (call usually in autumn) and submit the project with a budget.

Deadline

Call in autumn, decision in December

This is a private state foundation, separate from the ministry — you may apply in parallel to the Innovationsfonds Kunst if the projects differ.

Bildung und Teilhabe – Leistungen für Sport, Kultur und Freizeit

pays for kids' sports and hobbies

up to €15/month per child (sports club membership, music lessons, courses, camps)

Who pays

Jobcenter / Bundesagentur für Arbeit (administered via the municipality)

Who qualifies

Family receives Bürgergeld, Kinderzuschlag or Wohngeld; child/young person up to 25 years old attends kindergarten, school or vocational training without a scholarship

First step

Submit proof of the child's participation in a club/sports club to the Jobcenter — form "Bildung und Teilhabe" — together with the Bürgergeld application (or separately)

Deadline

ongoing (can be submitted year-round together with the main application)

Little known outside the main Bürgergeld package — you must bring proof from the club/school yourself, it is not granted automatically

Brot für die Welt – documentary film support

Brot für die Welt – Förderung von Dokumentarfilmen

ngo funding for development-focused documentaries

Project-based funding: documentaries, festivals, screening tours and research trips for filmmakers

Who pays

Brot für die Welt

Who qualifies

Documentary projects with a development-policy focus, global justice and life in countries of the Global South.

First step

Send a project description with a budget and an explanation of the development-policy angle directly to the organisation.

Deadline

no fixed deadline

A rare case where the research trip itself is funded rather than the finished film — the cheapest way to start a documentary project abroad.

Cinema for Peace Foundation – film support

Cinema for Peace Foundation – Filmförderung

private foundation funding films about peace and human rights

Funding is decided per project; the foundation supports films promoting peace and international understanding

Who pays

Cinema for Peace Foundation

Who qualifies

Film projects on peace, international understanding, human rights and the environment — primarily documentary.

First step

Send a short project description with a concrete request directly to the foundation — there is no application form.

Deadline

no fixed deadline

Entry from the AG DOK foundation list — the German documentary filmmakers' association, which maintains the most complete overview of private funding sources.

Creative Europe MEDIA – European Slate Development

eu funding for developing a slate of films

Project budget between €90,000 and €510,000 for a slate of 3–5 audiovisual works (fiction, animation, creative documentary)

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / EACEA – Creative Europe MEDIA

Who qualifies

Independent European production companies with proven experience of internationally distributed works. For smaller companies from countries with low audiovisual capacity there is a separate Mini-Slate line (2–3 works, up to 70% co-financing).

First step

Register the company on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal, contact the German Creative Europe Desk for advice and submit by the call deadline.

Deadline

Annual calls — deadlines usually in September and early December

Germany is not among the low audiovisual capacity countries, so the Mini-Slate line is closed to German companies — Ukraine belongs to that group.

Creative Innovation Lab – Creative Europe (cross-sectoral)

Creative Innovation Lab – Creative Europe (bereichsübergreifend)

eu funding for ai and cross-sector innovation in culture

Total call budget around €7m; funds projects at the intersection of the audiovisual sector and at least one other sector (music, books, museums)

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / EACEA – Creative Europe (cross-sectoral)

Who qualifies

Public or private entities legally established in a Creative Europe participating country. Thematic focus: adapting the sectors to the opportunities of artificial intelligence and virtual worlds, and the green transition.

First step

Find or build a consortium of partners from different sectors and countries, register on the EU Funding & Tenders Portal and submit by the deadline.

Deadline

Annual call — deadline usually in spring (April)

This is not „make a film“ but „build a solution for the sector“. The cheapest entry for a small studio is joining an existing consortium as a technology partner.

Culture Moves Europe – individual mobility

Culture Moves Europe – Individuelle Mobilität

eu mobility grant for artists

€85 per day plus a travel lump sum of €400–800 and top-ups; project length 7 to 60 days for individuals (7–21 days for groups)

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / Goethe-Institut – Culture Moves Europe

Who qualifies

Artists and cultural professionals legally resident in one of the 40 Creative Europe countries, aged 18+. Sectors: architecture, cultural heritage, design and fashion, literature, music, performing and visual arts.

First step

Find a hosting partner abroad, obtain a signed letter of collaboration and submit your application with an English CV and portfolio in the monthly window of the rolling call.

Deadline

Rolling call with monthly deadlines — check the current list on the website

Note: the audiovisual sector (film) is NOT on the list of sectors — it is covered by the separate MEDIA strand. Applying „as a filmmaker“ does not work; visual art with video practice is a grey area.

Elbkulturfonds – Behörde für Kultur und Medien Hamburg

grants for hamburg independent artists

Fund total ~€500,000 per year for all projects; funding per individual project is decided case by case

Who pays

Behörde für Kultur und Medien Hamburg

Who qualifies

Independent solo artists and creative groups from various genres (music, visual art, performance, etc.) working in Hamburg

First step

Go to elbkulturfonds.hamburg, check the current application round and submit the project application via the online form.

Deadline

annual application rounds, specific dates are updated on the website — check the current call

Very competitive (only a few projects are selected per round, just 6 in 2026). There is a separate funding line for Freie Darstellende Künste (theatre/dance) running in parallel — check there if your profile is stage-based.

Emerging talent film funding – FilmFernsehFonds Bayern

Nachwuchsfilmförderung – FilmFernsehFonds Bayern

bavarian funding for graduation and debut films

Up to €850,000 per year in total is available for thesis films by students of HFF Munich and Macromedia; the amount per project is set individually

Who pays

FilmFernsehFonds Bayern

Who qualifies

For thesis films, debut films and combined thesis/debut, only students and graduates of HFF Munich and Macromedia may apply (full-time study in directing or producing). Other FFF areas (screenplay, production, distribution, cinemas, VR and web series) have their own applicant groups.

First step

Check on fff-bayern.de which funding area your project falls under and apply by that round's deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year per funding area

Important: the Bavarian emerging-talent line is tied to two specific schools — it is not an open pot for young filmmakers. Those who did not study at HFF or Macromedia should look at the Kuratorium junger deutscher Film.

Eurimages – co-production support (Council of Europe)

Eurimages – Koproduktionsförderung (Europarat)

council of europe fund for film co-productions

Co-production support for feature-length films; amounts are set by the committee per project and session

Who pays

Europarat – Eurimages

Who qualifies

Fiction, animation and documentary from 70 minutes in a co-production of at least two member states. Co-producers must be independent of broadcasters and platforms, and the co-production contract must be signed by all partners BEFORE submission.

First step

Assemble the co-production package with a signed contract and submit via the Eurimages Submission Platform by the session deadline.

Deadline

Several sessions per year — dates at coe.int/eurimages

This is the „after your second film“ level: without established production companies in two countries and a largely closed financing package the application has no chance.

European Solidarity Fund for Ukrainian Films (ESFUF)

european fund for ukrainian film co-productions

Up to €90,000 for documentaries and up to €200,000 for fiction or animation; fund budget for 2026 ≈€1.46m

Who pays

European Solidarity Fund for Ukrainian Films (ESFUF) / EFAD

Who qualifies

The applicant is a production company established in one of the contributing countries (Germany is one), co-producing with a Ukrainian company as co-beneficiary. The film must be initiated by a Ukrainian director and intended for theatrical release.

First step

Find a Ukrainian co-producer, sign the co-production contract and apply via esfuf.eu during an open round (before shooting starts).

Deadline

Two rounds per year — current dates at esfuf.eu

The fund unites 19 partners from 18 countries and has already supported over 70 projects. The application must be submitted BEFORE shooting begins.

Europäisches Solidaritätskorps (ESK) — Freiwilligendienst

paid volunteering across europe

Coverage of travel, accommodation, meals, and insurance + pocket money (amount per host-country rates)

Who pays

Europäische Kommission / JUGEND für Europa

Who qualifies

Young people aged 18-30, including newcomers/refugees and people with disabilities

First step

Register on the European Solidarity Corps portal and look for a hosting project organization via jugendfuereuropa.de

Deadline

Next project application deadline expected February 2027, individual project entry ongoing

Strict age limit of 18-30 years. Duration 2 weeks to 12 months; a good option for younger family members of the applicant.

FIRST STEPS – the German emerging talent award

FIRST STEPS – Der Deutsche Nachwuchspreis

german award for film school graduation films

Total prize money €132,000 across ten categories (directing, producing, cinematography, acting, screenwriting); a nomination alone is worth €1,000

Who pays

FIRST STEPS – Der Deutsche Nachwuchspreis

Who qualifies

Graduation films by students of film schools in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and South Tyrol who have not yet been nominated. Fiction formats of all genres: short (7–30 min), mid-length (30–60 min) and feature (60+ min).

First step

Register online at firststeps.de, upload a viewing link of the finished film and a Director's Note by the March deadline.

Deadline

Submission from 16 Feb to 18 Mar (2026 cycle)

The condition is explicitly a film school graduation film. Without study the award is out of reach; the counterpart for self-taught filmmakers is the Kuratorium junger deutscher Film.

Feature film production funding – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Produktionsförderung programmfüllender Talentfilm – Kuratorium

grant for a first or second feature film

Up to €500,000 as a grant, in justified exceptional cases up to €1,000,000; production costs of the film up to €2m

Who pays

Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Who qualifies

First or second feature-length fiction or documentary film. It is enough that the director or lead producer holds German citizenship, permanent residence in Germany, or citizenship of an EU/EEA state or Switzerland.

First step

Draw up the budget according to standard FFG rules, secure an own contribution of at least 5% and submit in the feature film window.

Deadline

Several rounds per year — dates on the Kuratorium website

Feature films must secure a regular first theatrical release in Germany. Since 01.01.2026 the Kuratorium is fully responsible for federal and state talent film funding.

Federal Foundation for the Reappraisal of the SED Dictatorship – film funding

Bundesstiftung Aufarbeitung der SED-Diktatur – Filmförderung

federal foundation funding films about east germany

Project-based funding; supports documentaries with a length of up to 45 minutes

Who pays

Bundesstiftung Aufarbeitung der SED-Diktatur

Who qualifies

Documentary projects about the division of Germany, the SED dictatorship and its reappraisal.

First step

Submit the project through the foundation's project funding scheme, checking the historical relevance of the topic.

Deadline

Submission according to the foundation's deadlines — check the website

The length limit (up to 45 minutes) makes this pot suitable for mid-length documentaries rather than features.

Federal games funding (Computerspieleförderung)

Games-Förderung des Bundes (Computerspieleförderung)

federal grant for computer game development

Up to €8m per project (cap raised from €2m); minimum project size €300,000. Rate: 50% for SMEs/start-ups up to 3 years old, 45% for SMEs, 25% for large companies

Who pays

BMFTR / Projektträger DLR

Who qualifies

Computer game developers in Germany; both prototypes and full production are funded.

First step

Check the current application round with the project agency DLR and prepare a project of at least €300,000 including a financing plan.

Deadline

Application rounds — check budget status before applying

€120m is budgeted for 2026, but funds run out during the year — apply early in the round. Administration sits with the BMFTR (project agency DLR).

Fonds Darstellende Künste – project funding

Fonds Darstellende Künste – Projektförderung

federal fund for independent performing arts

Depending on the line: e.g. revival funding from €10,000 to €25,000; other lines have their own ceilings

Who pays

Fonds Darstellende Künste e.V.

Who qualifies

Applicants must have worked professionally in the independent performing arts for at least two years and have their residence/workplace and main focus of work in Germany.

First step

Choose the relevant line on fonds-daku.de, read its regulations and submit online by the deadline.

Deadline

Several deadlines per year depending on the line (e.g. 26 Jan and 1 Jul)

Relevant for hybrid formats — performance with video, documentary theatre, media installations.

Frankfurter Stiftung maecenia – support for women's projects

Frankfurter Stiftung maecenia – Förderung von Frauenprojekten

foundation supporting women's documentary projects

€5,000–7,000 for a documentary film

Who pays

Frankfurter Stiftung maecenia

Who qualifies

Projects by women in science and the arts, including documentaries.

First step

Contact the foundation directly with a project description and budget.

Deadline

no fixed deadline

A small amount, but little competition — such foundations often close exactly the budget gap that stalls a project.

Freiwilligendienste Kultur und Bildung (FSJ Kultur / BFD Kultur)

paid volunteer year in culture

Taschengeld (allowance) up to €676/month (average ~€400) + social insurance, sometimes accommodation

Who pays

BKJ (Bundesvereinigung Kulturelle Kinder- und Jugendbildung) via the state LKJ organizations

Who qualifies

Young people and adults (age limits depend on state/provider), 6-12 months of service at a theater, museum, library or cultural center

First step

Choose a placement location on the map at anmelden.freiwilligendienste-kultur-bildung.de/karte and apply online

Deadline

applications for the September 1 start are accepted from February; open spots are available year-round

The Taschengeld is not taxed and not counted against Bürgergeld the same way a salary would be — check the interaction with the Jobcenter before starting

GVL – Wahrnehmungsvertrag für ausübende Künstler:innen

royalty payouts for performers

variable annual payout (from broadcast and private-copying levies) — not a grant, but royalties

Who pays

Gesellschaft zur Verwertung von Leistungsschutzrechten (GVL)

Who qualifies

Anyone who performs, narrates, or otherwise appears in an audio or video production (actors, voice-over artists, musicians) as a performing artist, regardless of nationality.

First step

Register for free online via the Wahrnehmungsvertrag at gvl.de, uploading an ID document.

Deadline

ongoing (registration accepted year-round, retroactive payments up to 4 years)

Not a grant but a royalty system for performances/voice work — relevant if Heidar or someone on the team narrates or appears in video production projects (Watty, Business Encyclopedia). Registration is free and doesn't require proof of activity at the time of sign-up.

Games BW funding – MFG Baden-Württemberg

Games BW Förderung – MFG Baden-Württemberg

state funding for games and interactive media in bw

Funding categories: concept, prototype and production; amounts depend on category and project size

Who pays

MFG Medien- und Filmgesellschaft Baden-Württemberg

Who qualifies

Developers of high-quality digital games and innovative interactive media projects with game-like characteristics that are culturally, educationally or cross-sectorally significant, including gamification outside games. A link to Baden-Württemberg is required.

First step

Choose the category (concept / prototype / production) on games-bw.mfg.de and apply by the next submission deadline.

Deadline

Twice a year — next known date 28.01.2027

The programme replaced Digital Content Funding (DCF). The phrase „innovative interactive media projects“ is broader than classic games — XR and AI interaction fit here.

General project funding – Fonds Soziokultur

Allgemeine Projektförderung – Fonds Soziokultur

federal fund for community-based cultural projects

From €5,000 to €30,000, but no more than 80% of total project costs. Separate U25 line for ages 18–25: up to €4,000 and up to 90% of costs

Who pays

Fonds Soziokultur e.V.

Who qualifies

Time-limited socio-cultural projects that actively involve local people in the concept and implementation and address social topics through cultural means — including film, media and documentation.

First step

Wait for the application window to open (usually April–May), register in the fund's online portal and submit a project description with a budget.

Deadline

Application window usually April–May annually

One of the few federal funds that fits projects at the intersection of art and community — with no requirement of previous film credits.

German Short Film Award

Deutscher Kurzfilmpreis

national award money for short films

€30,000 for the best short film, €20,000 for the best mid-length film, €15,000 to the producer for a nomination

Who pays

Beauftragte der Bundesregierung für Kultur und Medien (BKM)

Who qualifies

Nominations are submitted by German film associations and institutions. Filmmakers may submit their own film but must prove pre-selection by an entitled body.

First step

Ask a professional association (e.g. AG Kurzfilm) about pre-selection and submit the film via the award portal by 1 July.

Deadline

1 July annually

This is money AFTER the film, not for production — the award effectively acts as a second financing tranche for the next project.

Grenzgänger research stipend (Robert Bosch Stiftung / LCB)

Grenzgänger – Recherchestipendium (Robert Bosch Stiftung / LCB)

stipend for research trips in eastern europe

Lump-sum research stipends of €2,000 / 4,000 / 6,000 / 8,000 / 10,000 / 12,000 depending on scope and duration

Who pays

Robert Bosch Stiftung / Literarisches Colloquium Berlin

Who qualifies

Authors of German-language publications and media work (including documentaries) about Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe. A letter of interest or contract from a publisher, broadcaster, agency or production company in the German-speaking area is required.

First step

Obtain a letter of interest from a production company or editorial team and submit the form with a synopsis and a research plan (route, duration).

Deadline

Annual call — dates at bosch-stiftung.de/grenzgaenger and lcb.de

One of the few programmes that funds the trip and the research itself rather than a finished product — a good first grant for a documentary project about Eastern Europe.

HessenFilm und Medien – film funding

HessenFilm und Medien – Filmförderung

film fund of the state of hesse

Story development up to €30,000; other amounts depend on the funding area and project (production, short film, experimental, post-production, distribution, package funding)

Who pays

HessenFilm und Medien GmbH

Who qualifies

Film and media projects linked to Hesse. Two declared priorities are emerging talent and documentary film, especially formats for theatrical release.

First step

Apply online at hessenfilm.de BEFORE the project starts; questions to foerderung@hessenfilm.de.

Deadline

Apply before the project starts; rounds listed on the HessenFilm website

Documentary is not an afterthought here but one of two declared priorities — rare among the state funds.

Innovationsfonds Kunst – State of Baden-Württemberg

Innovationsfonds Kunst – Land Baden-Württemberg

state grant for innovative art projects in baden-württemberg

From €10,000 to €30,000 per project; own contribution of at least 20% of costs (own funds, third-party funds or ticket income)

Who pays

Ministerium für Wissenschaft, Forschung und Kunst BW

Who qualifies

Innovative arts projects in Baden-Württemberg. Cultural institutions may apply, as may freelance artists and sole proprietorships without their own legal form. Eligible fields include film, internet and new media.

First step

Apply exclusively via the online form at mwk-kunstfoerderung.de/innovationsfonds; clarify your eligibility by phone with the ministry beforehand.

Deadline

Annual call, deadline usually in early September

The project must be time-limited and must not receive other state funding. Previous rounds funded over 600 projects with more than €17m.

Innovative audiovisual content / New Media funding – Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg

Förderung Innovative Audiovisuelle Inhalte / New Media – Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg

berlin funding for games, xr and immersive formats

Funds games, XR and immersive formats; in one round the Medienboard awarded €2m to 19 games, XR and series projects

Who pays

Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg

Who qualifies

Projects with a seat or production effect in Berlin or Brandenburg — immersive, interactive and innovative audiovisual formats.

First step

Check the New Media funding deadlines on medienboard.de and submit by the round's deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year

The largest German pot specifically for XR and immersive work — but only for those based in Berlin/Brandenburg.

Jury-based cultural production funding for feature-length films (FFA)

Jurybasierte kulturelle Produktionsförderung programmfüllender Filme (FFA)

federal grant for producing a feature film

Up to €500,000 for the production of feature-length fiction or documentary films

Who pays

Filmförderungsanstalt (FFA)

Who qualifies

Applicants must have residence or business seat in Germany (or a German branch if based in another EU/EEA state) and a proven track record of feature-length work.

First step

Check that you meet the reference-work conditions, register in the FFA service portal and submit online by the round's deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year — dates on ffa.de

This is the „cultural“ line, separate from automatic reference funding and the DFFF. The reference condition effectively excludes first films — for debuts there is the Kuratorium.

Jury-based cultural project development funding (FFA)

Jurybasierte kulturelle Projektentwicklungsförderung (FFA)

federal grant for film project development

Up to €100,000 as a non-repayable grant per project; up to €150,000 for particularly complex animation productions

Who pays

Filmförderungsanstalt (FFA)

Who qualifies

Producers may apply; for documentaries also authors and directors. Requires a previously produced and released feature-length film of at least 79 minutes (children's film 59) in Germany or the EU/EEA (cinema, TV, streaming or festival).

First step

Register in the FFA service portal and submit exclusively online by 11:59 p.m. on the deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year (fiction/documentary and children's film separately) — dates on ffa.de

With the FFG reform the BKM's cultural film funding moved to the FFA. The project must have substantial German cultural character (language, director's residence, German producer, financial majority).

Jury-based cultural treatment and screenplay funding (FFA)

Jurybasierte kulturelle Treatment- und Drehbuchförderung (FFA)

federal grant for writing a screenplay

Treatment up to €15,000; screenplay in two phases up to €40,000 (€20,000 per phase), up to €50,000 for complex animation; consultancy additionally up to €2,500 (treatment) or €10,000 (screenplay). All non-repayable grants

Who pays

Filmförderungsanstalt (FFA)

Who qualifies

Only the authors themselves (natural persons) with residence or business seat in Germany (or a German branch if based in the EU/EEA). A proven professional track record is required: a produced film or series, a published book (not self-published) or a nomination at a recognised festival.

First step

Collect proof of your track record, register in the FFA service portal and submit online by 11:59 p.m. on the deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year — dates on ffa.de

This covers living costs while writing, not a screenplay fee. Production companies cannot apply — only the authors themselves.

Jurybasierte kulturelle Produktionsförderung Kurzfilm (FFA)

grant to produce a short film

up to €40,000 per project (a minimum own contribution of 5% is required)

Who pays

Filmförderungsanstalt (FFA)

Who qualifies

Producers of short films (up to 30 min.) resident/based in Germany (or in the EU/EEA with a German branch), the film must have a "significant German cultural character" (language or a core team with a German connection).

First step

Register on the FFA portal (portal.ffa.de) and assemble a package: script, budget, financing plan, team composition — all in German.

Deadline

Standard track — applications due 25.08.2026 (jury 4–5.11), children's short films — due 01.09.2026 (jury 9–10.11)

Realistic for anyone already doing video production who is willing to make an auteur short film (not an ad or social-media content) with a clear cultural component. All correspondence and the application are in German — consultation with a native speaker or a document translator will be needed.

KUNSTFONDS_Publikation – Stiftung Kunstfonds

grant for publishing an art book or catalogue

Up to €24,000 for a single publication (catalogue, artist's book). Alongside: KUNSTFONDS_Werkverzeichnung €10,000–30,000 (10% own contribution) and KUNSTFONDS_Stipendium

Who pays

Stiftung Kunstfonds

Who qualifies

Visual artists and artist duos (and their legal successors) whose work has supra-regional significance. The publication must be an artistic work or a catalogue of the artist's practice, not a promotional publication.

First step

Prepare the layout/concept of the publication and a budget with the publisher, and submit online by 15 January (midnight).

Deadline

15 January annually, midnight

One of the few pots for a PHYSICAL publication — photo book, catalogue, artist's book. Not suitable for film, but yes for visual practice.

Kultur macht stark. Bündnisse für Bildung

funds culture projects for disadvantaged kids

project-based funding (amount depends on the project, program totals up to €50 million/year across all alliances)

Who pays

BMBFSFJ (Federal Ministry for Education, Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth)

Who qualifies

Not for private individuals directly — requires a local "alliance" (min. 3 partners: cultural institution + school/youth center + social partner) that submits a project for children/teens aged 3-18 with limited access to education

First step

Find a local partner (library, music school, youth center in Freiburg) and jointly submit a project application via kumasta3.buendnisse-fuer-bildung.de

Deadline

phase 2023-2027, deadlines per the calendar (Terminkalender) on the website

The money goes not directly to the family but to the organizing alliance — so it's valuable if the child already attends some club/art school: you can ask them to apply for a funded cultural project

MFG Baden-Württemberg film funding – development, preparation, production

Filmförderung der MFG Baden-Württemberg – Stoffentwicklung, Produktionsvorbereitung, Produktion

film funding of the state of baden-württemberg

Success-dependent repayable loans: authors up to 100% of calculated costs for story development, production companies up to 75%. MFG's annual budget ≈€18m

Who pays

MFG Filmförderung Baden-Württemberg

Who qualifies

Producers and authors with a cultural or other link to Baden-Württemberg. The key condition is the „BW effect“: costs actually spent in the state must be at least 120% of the funding amount.

First step

First book a free MFG orientation consultation, then apply in the MFG database (production applications digital only).

Deadline

Several rounds per year — current dates at film.mfg.de/service/einreichfristen

These are loans, not grants — the calculation is not „how much do I get“ but how much must be spent in the state and repaid from revenues.

MOIN Film Funding Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein

MOIN Filmförderung Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein

film fund of hamburg and schleswig-holstein

Lines: short film, NEST Development, High End, Director's Cut and Innovativ (XR/360°); amounts depend on the line

Who pays

MOIN Filmförderung Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein

Who qualifies

Film projects linked to Hamburg or Schleswig-Holstein — a regional spend effect is required. The Innovativ line funds XR and 360° formats.

First step

Choose the line on moin-filmfoerderung.de, check the round's deadline and apply online.

Deadline

Several rounds per year per line

State funds finance their own region — without a local seat or production share the application fails, even with a strong project.

Made in NRW – development initiative of Film- und Medienstiftung NRW and WDR

Made in NRW – Development-Initiative der Film- und Medienstiftung NRW und des WDR

nrw grant for early project development

Up to €50,000 grant per project; the initiative's annual budget is €300,000, up to six projects per year

Who pays

Film- und Medienstiftung NRW / WDR

Who qualifies

Producers with a seat or business location in North Rhine-Westphalia together with NRW talent (script and/or direction). Supports the early development phase of film and series projects, documentaries and other formats for digital distribution — especially the ARD media library.

First step

Find an NRW production partner (or have your own seat in NRW) and apply by the round deadline on filmstiftung.de.

Deadline

Annual initiative — deadline in May (20 May in 2026), jury decision in June

Overall the Film- und Medienstiftung NRW covers up to 80% of documented costs depending on the area; for feature production the quota is regularly capped at 50%.

Medienförderung RLP – stipends, games, audio and audiovisual works

Medienförderung RLP – Stipendien, Games, Audio und audiovisuelle Werke

media stipends and project funding in rhineland-palatinate

Stipend: €1,500 per month; one-year duration, after 6 months first results must be presented, then up to €1,250 per month. Games and audio/audiovisual projects are funded separately

Who pays

Medienförderung RLP (MF RLP)

Who qualifies

Innovative digital media projects linked to Rhineland-Palatinate: broadcast and broadcast-like content, series, films, videos and games. In the tenth round 26 projects were funded — 18 audiovisual, 5 games and 3 stipends.

First step

Choose the funding area on mf-rlp.de, check the procedure and submit by 12:00 noon on the round's deadline.

Deadline

Twice a year (spring and autumn), deadline at 12:00 noon; eleventh round from 1 July to 16 October 2026

One of the few states where a living-cost stipend sits alongside project funding — and where games are a fully fledged funding area.

Mitteldeutsche Medienförderung (MDM) – general project funding

Mitteldeutsche Medienförderung (MDM) – Allgemeine Projektförderung

film fund for saxony, saxony-anhalt and thuringia

General project funding in rounds; the committee sets the amount per project

Who pays

Mitteldeutsche Medienförderung (MDM)

Who qualifies

Film and media projects with a regional effect in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia — development, production, distribution.

First step

Check the round calendar on mdm-online.de and submit by the relevant deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year

MDM traditionally works closely with international co-productions from Eastern Europe — relevant if your project has an Eastern European partner.

Nipkow Programm – residency stipend for media professionals in Berlin

Nipkow Programm – Stipendium für Medienschaffende in Berlin

berlin residency stipend for international filmmakers

€1,500 per month for up to three months; travel and accommodation are not covered

Who pays

Nipkow Programm e.V.

Who qualifies

Media professionals worldwide — writers, directors, producers, animators — with at least one feature film (70+ min) credited in that role. Alternatively: a short film awarded at a major festival (Berlin, Cannes, Venice, Sundance).

First step

Prepare at least a first draft screenplay or developed treatment in English, a producer's letter and two industry recommendation letters, and submit by the early-January deadline.

Deadline

deadline in early January annually

The fellowship is once in a lifetime — you cannot reapply. The residency takes place in Berlin between June and November in one uninterrupted block.

Project development funding – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Projektentwicklungsförderung – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

loan for developing a film project

Up to €50,000 as a loan; in individual cases paid in two stages (up to €15,000 for script redevelopment). Producer's own contribution at least 5% of recognised net production costs

Who pays

Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Who qualifies

Producers of the first and second feature-length film (or max. 300 minutes total in other formats). Fiction and documentary, animation from 24 minutes.

First step

Check against the guidelines that the project has not yet started, then submit with a budget and financing plan at the next deadline.

Deadline

Several rounds per year — dates on the Kuratorium website

The project must not have started at the time of application. Shooting may only begin after written confirmation („Inaussichtstellung“).

Project funding by Stiftung Kulturwerk – VG Bild-Kunst

Projektförderung der Stiftung Kulturwerk – VG Bild-Kunst

project funding from the visual arts collecting society

Amounts are set by the board per area; applications twice a year per professional group

Who pays

Stiftung Kulturwerk der VG Bild-Kunst

Who qualifies

Only members of the relevant VG Bild-Kunst professional group who received at least one distribution in the last two rounds. Film is group III, photography/illustration/design group II.

First step

First join VG Bild-Kunst and sign a rights administration contract; after the first distribution, apply via kulturfoerderung-antrag.bildkunst.de.

Deadline

Film: 31 Mar and 30 Sep; photography/illustration/design: 15 May and 15 Nov

A long but cheap route: VG Bild-Kunst membership costs little, pays royalties and opens this funding pot permanently.

Projektförderung der Senatsverwaltung für Kultur und Gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt

grants for berlin cultural projects

Amount not fixed — depends on the project; there is a separate Hauptstadtkulturfonds for large projects (applications due 01.10 annually)

Who pays

Senatsverwaltung für Kultur und Gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt Berlin

Who qualifies

For artists/creatives and collectives living or working in Berlin; the project must take place in Berlin, be non-commercial, in fields such as visual art, theatre, music, literature, media art, etc.

First step

Go to berlin.de/sen/kultur/foerderung, choose the relevant programme (art field) and apply online via fms.verwalt-berlin.de/egokuef.

Deadline

depends on the programme; for the Hauptstadtkulturfonds 2026 — deadline 01.10 at 14:00

This is an umbrella for many sub-programmes — you need to find your own field (not a universal grant). The money goes only to non-commercial projects without profit intent — if you have a Gewerbe and a commercial project, this doesn't fit directly; look for a separate business line.

Projektförderung des Kulturamtes der Stadt Köln

grants for cologne cultural projects

individual per project, no publicly fixed upper limit

Who pays

Kulturamt der Stadt Köln

Who qualifies

Professional artists, creative groups, independent institutions and initiatives with a public cultural offering for Cologne residents; amateur projects are NOT funded

First step

Go to stadt-koeln.de/leben-in-koeln/kultur/kulturfoerderung, find the relevant department (4 disciplinary areas) and submit the application before the deadline.

Deadline

fixed deadlines twice a year: 30.06 (for the 1st half of the following year) and 31.12 (for the 2nd half)

Strict: professional level only, not for hobby projects. Deadlines are fixed six months in advance — plan ahead, missing one means waiting for the next round.

Projektförderung im Kulturbereich – Kulturreferat der Landeshauptstadt München

grants for munich cultural projects

Amount is individual per project, no exact upper limit published — depends on budget and field

Who pays

Kulturreferat der Landeshauptstadt München

Who qualifies

Individuals, groups, initiatives or associations implementing an innovative cultural project relevant to the Munich city community

First step

Go to stadt.muenchen.de/infos/projektfoerderung-kultur.html, choose the relevant department (visual art / Stadtteilkultur / cultural education, etc.) and write to antrag-kunstfoerderung@muenchen.de.

Deadline

different deadlines depending on the sub-programme — clarify by phone at 089 233-24382

A very fragmented system — dozens of sub-programmes with different criteria and deadlines; best to call the info line directly to avoid getting lost on the website.

Projektförderung – Abteilung Kulturförderung, Kulturamt Stuttgart

grants for stuttgart cultural projects

up to €5,000 for the "kleinere Projektförderung" (small project support, no fixed deadlines); larger amounts via separate programmes

Who pays

Kulturamt der Landeshauptstadt Stuttgart

Who qualifies

Artists, cultural associations and institutions with their main activity in Stuttgart; covers visual art, dance/theatre, film/media, music, socio-culture, culture in public space

First step

Go to stuttgart.de/kultur/kulturfoerderung/foerdermoeglichkeiten, choose the "kleinere Projektförderung" (up to €5,000, no deadline) or the relevant programme, and submit the application at least 8 weeks before the project starts.

Deadline

ongoing for small projects (up to €5,000); individual programmes (e.g. cultural education) have a deadline of 15.05

The easiest entry point among the six cities — the "kleinere Projektförderung" up to €5,000 can be applied for at any time, not tied to a competition window. Main condition: submit the application at least 8 weeks before the project starts.

Robert Bosch Stiftung film prizes for co-productions

Filmpreise der Robert Bosch Stiftung für Koproduktionen

foundation prizes for german-arab film co-productions

Three annual film prizes of €60,000 each for German-Arab co-productions

Who pays

Robert Bosch Stiftung

Who qualifies

Emerging filmmakers from Germany and the Arab world working in joint co-production. The foundation also runs „Grenzgänger“ — research stipends for authors writing about Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe.

First step

Check current calls in the Förderung section of bosch-stiftung.de and prepare the project together with a partner from the second country.

Deadline

Annual calls — dates on bosch-stiftung.de

Private foundations usually work without forms or hard deadlines — a person reads your letter and decides. A short, concrete enquiry works better than a formal application.

Schöpflin Stiftung – funding

Schöpflin Stiftung – Förderung

private foundation in southern baden-württemberg

Project-based funding; the foundation works within its own programme areas, including „Lernen & Partizipation“

Who pays

Schöpflin Stiftung

Who qualifies

Projects on social participation, education and democratic culture — mostly linked to the Lörrach / southern Baden region.

First step

Read the programme areas on schoepflin-stiftung.de and get in touch directly if your project fits one of them.

Deadline

no fixed deadline

For people in southern Baden-Württemberg this is the physically closest private foundation — geography genuinely matters here.

Short film production funding – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Produktionsförderung Kurzfilm – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

grant for producing a short film

Up to €40,000 as a non-repayable grant for films of no more than 30 minutes

Who pays

Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Who qualifies

The producer applies. Up to two short films to date (shorts made without public funding do not count). Self-taught filmmakers without film school are explicitly included; for shorts a festival screening counts as theatrical release.

First step

Watch the application webinar (the Kuratorium publishes a recording), download the forms afterwards and submit online by 6 p.m. on the deadline.

Deadline

23.09.2026, 6 p.m. (2026 round); further rounds in the following year

The lowest-threshold entry into German film funding without film school: the FFA requires two previous funded works for the same €40,000, the Kuratorium does not.

Sport mit Geflüchteten – Badischer Sportbund Freiburg

free sports club for refugees

the club receives €10/person/month in start-up funding — participants often get free or reduced membership and gear

Who pays

Badischer Sportbund Freiburg (part of the DOSB program "Integration durch Sport")

Who qualifies

People with a migration/refugee background in the Südbaden/Freiburg region who want to join a sports club (swimming, football, etc.)

First step

Contact the BSB Freiburg coordinators (Benjamin Sutter / Elena Grüner, +49 761 15246-29) or choose a Stützpunktverein nearby

Deadline

ongoing

Over 5,000 people have already been integrated through this network of clubs in Südbaden — a good local option specifically for the Freiburg region, where Heidar lives

Story development stipend – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Projektbezogenes Stipendium Stoffentwicklung – Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

stipend for developing a film story

Up to €25,000 as an interest-free conditionally repayable loan; repaid at start of shooting or when the rights are sold

Who pays

Kuratorium junger deutscher Film

Who qualifies

Authors and creators (individuals or several co-authors jointly) for original ideas, concepts, treatments, screenplays and research — up to and including the second feature film. Self-taught filmmakers without film school are explicitly eligible.

First step

Download the current Förderrichtlinie and the Stoffentwicklung info sheet from kuratorium-junger-film.de, prepare at least a description of the idea and submit during the application window.

Deadline

Several submission rounds per year — exact dates on the Kuratorium website

Guidelines in force since 01.01.2026. Max. two project sketches per application. Short films made without public funding do not count towards the first/second film limit.

VFF Nachwuchsförderung (Stipendien)

stipend for film school students

€600/month, usually for 1-2 semesters

Who pays

VFF Verwertungsgesellschaft der Film- und Fernsehproduzenten mbH

Who qualifies

Students at German film schools in producing/media economics who remain enrolled for the entire funding period (studying abroad is not supported).

First step

Compile everything into one PDF: CV with photo, filmography, transcript of grades, a letter of recommendation from a lecturer (sent directly by the institution), and email it to stipendien@vff.org.

Deadline

deadlines 31 Jan (for October-September) and 30 Aug (for April-March)

There is no legal entitlement — the decision is made by an advisory board. BAföG recipients must declare the scholarship; it is taxable and can affect BAföG payments.

World Cinema Fund (Berlinale)

World Cinema Fund (Berlinale / Kulturstiftung des Bundes)

german fund for films from ukraine, africa, asia and latin america

Up to €60,000 production support (max. 50% of production costs) and up to €40,000 post-production support; production costs between €200,000 and €1,400,000

Who pays

Kulturstiftung des Bundes / Berlinale (World Cinema Fund)

Who qualifies

Feature-length fiction and creative documentaries from the fund's regions. WCF Europe adds Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine — provided there is a co-production with a company from a MEDIA country. The German or European production company is the administrative recipient of the funds.

First step

Check on the WCF page whether the project's country is on the regions list, find a partner production company and submit during the open window.

Deadline

Several submission windows per year — dates at berlinale.de/wcf

A rare construction: a German company can receive funding for a film by a director from Ukraine, Moldova or Belarus. There is a separate line of up to €10,000 for German distribution.

ZDF „Das kleine Fernsehspiel“ – project submissions

ZDF / Das kleine Fernsehspiel – Projekteinreichungen

zdf editorial unit that finances debut films

The editorial unit has around €5m per year and produces some 26 productions; financing is agreed project by project

Who pays

ZDF / Das kleine Fernsehspiel

Who qualifies

Emerging directors with no more than one funded feature film. German-language fiction projects of all genres (streaming, TV, cinema) and documentaries with a clear content link to Germany.

First step

Send the project as a single PDF to dkfprojektvorschlaege@zdf.de — no form, no deadline.

Deadline

rolling submission

Not a grant but a broadcaster's editorial unit: instead of an application and jury, an editor reads the project. The lowest-threshold entry, but slow and without formal feedback.

nordmedia – film and media funding for Lower Saxony/Bremen

nordmedia – Film- und Medienförderung Niedersachsen/Bremen

film fund of lower saxony and bremen

Up to 50% of eligible costs, maximum €100,000 per project. The fund's annual volume is ≈€13m

Who pays

nordmedia – Film- und Mediengesellschaft Niedersachsen/Bremen

Who qualifies

Small and medium-sized enterprises including start-ups with a seat in the funding region. Areas: story and project development, production, distribution and subtitling, screenings and festivals, investment, prizes and stipends.

First step

Check the relevant area and round deadline on nordmedia.de and apply online.

Deadline

Several rounds per year — dates on nordmedia.de

Regional effect: at least 1.5 times the funding amount is expected to be spent in Lower Saxony and/or Bremen.

Budget für Arbeit (§ 61 SGB IX)

helps disabled workers get regular jobs

subsidy to the employer of up to 75% of the wage + reimbursement of costs for on-the-job guidance/training, unlimited duration

Who pays

Integrationsamt / Träger der Eingliederungshilfe

Who qualifies

People with a severe disability/special support needs entitled to services under §58 SGB IX (typically from a Werkstatt for people with disabilities) who receive an offer for a regular, collectively-bargained job

First step

Contact the local Integrationsamt or the Träger der Eingliederungshilfe together with the prospective employer and submit an application for Budget für Arbeit

Deadline

ongoing

Rarely used — both employers and people with disabilities often don't know about the subsidy of up to 75% of the wage. Can significantly ease the transition from a sheltered workshop to the open labor market.

Entlastungsbetrag (§ 45b SGB XI)

monthly money for home care

up to €131/month (up to €1,572/year), unused amounts carry over until 30.06 of the following year

Who pays

Pflegekasse (at your health insurance provider)

Who qualifies

Anyone with a recognized Pflegegrad 1-5 who is cared for at home (not in a facility)

First step

Apply for a Pflegegrad (if not already assigned) via MDK/MEDICPROOF, then contact the Pflegekasse for the list of recognized care services eligible for reimbursement

Deadline

ongoing

The money is not transferred automatically — a recognized service (Alltagsbegleitung, day care, etc.) must first be paid for, then the invoice submitted for reimbursement. Many families don't use this amount at all.

Kraftfahrzeughilfe (KfzHV)

car help for disabled workers

up to €22,000 for purchasing a car (income-dependent), 100% for adapting the vehicle to specific needs, up to 100% for a driver's license (also income-dependent)

Who pays

Deutsche Rentenversicherung / Agentur für Arbeit / Integrationsamt (depending on status)

Who qualifies

A person with a disability who cannot otherwise (public transport, on foot, rides) reach work/training and needs a car of their own on a non-temporary basis

First step

Submit form G0143/G0140 to the Deutsche Rentenversicherung (or the Agentur für Arbeit or Integrationsamt — depending on status) BEFORE buying the car or starting driving lessons

Deadline

ongoing

Critical: submit the application and wait for approval first, only then buy the car or start driving lessons — otherwise retroactive reimbursement will be refused.

Persönliches Budget (§ 29 SGB IX)

cash instead of care services

calculated individually based on need, not exceeding the value of in-kind services, usually paid out monthly in cash

Who pays

Rehabilitation provider (Rentenversicherung, Pflegekasse, Integrationsamt, Sozialamt — depending on need)

Who qualifies

Anyone entitled to rehabilitation/participation (Teilhabe) services from several sources at once (medical rehab + care + workplace support, etc.)

First step

Submit an application for a "Persönliches Budget" to any of the relevant service providers (e.g. Rentenversicherung or Sozialamt) — they coordinate the other providers themselves

Deadline

ongoing

Allows recipients to hire their own assistant instead of receiving a fixed service package from an agency — more flexible, but requires a Zielvereinbarung (goal agreement) with the service provider.

Pflegehilfsmittel zum Verbrauch (§ 40 Abs. 2 SGB XI)

free monthly care supplies

up to €42/month, no co-payment and no prescription needed

Who pays

Pflegekasse

Who qualifies

Anyone with a recognized Pflegegrad 1-5, cared for at home

First step

Call the Pflegekasse (number on the back of the insurance card) and request the Pflegehilfsmittel-Pauschale or a Pflegebox

Deadline

ongoing

An unused month expires — it does not accumulate. Many providers (Pflegebox) send the package automatically every month after a single call.

Pflegekurse für Angehörige und ehrenamtliche Pflegepersonen (§ 45 SGB XI)

free caregiving courses for relatives

€0 (completely free, including in-person and online courses)

Who pays

Pflegekasse / Pflegestützpunkte

Who qualifies

Relatives or volunteers caring for a person with a Pflegegrad, regardless of their own status

First step

Contact the Pflegekasse or the nearest Pflegestützpunkt and ask for the current list of free courses (in-person/online)

Deadline

ongoing

The course can even be held at the care recipient's home if that's more convenient. Few people know this is a legal entitlement, not a paid service.

Wohnumfeldverbessernde Maßnahmen (§ 40 Abs. 4 SGB XI)

money to adapt home for care

up to €4,180 per measure (up to €16,720 with multiple care recipients in the same household)

Who pays

Pflegekasse

Who qualifies

Pflegegrad 1-5 (in exceptional cases also without a Pflegegrad), when renovation is needed (ramp, door widening, bath lift, etc.)

First step

Submit a written application to the Pflegekasse describing the required renovation measures; if needed, consult a Pflegeberater or an independent home-modification advisor

Deadline

ongoing, can be reapplied for if the care situation changes

The application must be submitted BEFORE work begins — otherwise reimbursement may be refused.