Consulting on Funding in Germany: Programs & Tips

Good consulting can be a real accelerator – especially when you want to advance digitalization, IT security, processes, or the use of AI. Topics such as sustainability, energy and resource efficiency, decarbonization, or new business models also benefit from external expertise. Funding programs help make these consulting services affordable – particularly for SMEs, startups, and sometimes also non-profit organizations and social enterprises.

In Germany, consulting funding is often organized as a grant: through consulting vouchers or as partial cost reimbursement after the consultation is completed. Typical are clear rules – for example, requirements for qualified or listed consultants, eligible content, and documentation such as consulting reports, invoices, and proof of payment. Many SME programs also involve the de minimis regulation. This sounds formal but can be well managed with good preparation.

It is important that you clearly describe your consulting objective: initial situation, specific question, work packages, milestones, and expected results (e.g., IT security concept, sustainability roadmap, or market entry plan). Also, pay attention to the deadline logic "before the start of measures" – often you may only commission bindingly after application or approval.

To help you find the right program faster, the Reflecta Funding Compass supports you: you can match funding opportunities by location, target group, and topic and be guided step-by-step through the application process. This way, a good idea becomes a fundable project – and consulting becomes an actionable plan.