Digitalization Grant ERDF – Introductory Projects
Funding to support micro-enterprises in Saxony in approaching digital transformation topics. Grant up to 60% (up to 70% with tariff bonus), maximum €10,000 for projects up to 12 months. Applications can be submitted continuously via the SAB funding portal.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
Introduction of micro-enterprises to topics of digital transformation through planning, designing, preparation, and technical implementation, procurement of necessary hardware and software, as well as the introduction of the solution including training.
Eligible expenses
- Planning, conceptualization, preparation, and technical implementation
- Procurement of necessary hardware and software
- Implementation of the solution including training
Non-eligible expenses
- Acquisition of pure standard hardware as the sole project objective
- Purchase of standard software (e.g., office software, operating systems)
- Devices, equipment, and machinery including associated software
- Value-added tax
Eligible to apply
- Companies
Funding requirements
- Commercially active micro-enterprise or members of the liberal professions according to the EU SME definition with headquarters/establishment in Saxony
- First-time implementation of a digitization project without prior comparable funding from state or federal government
- Demonstrable improvement of the digitization level within the company
- Minimum eligible expenditure of €5,000
Documents required for application
- Completed and signed application form
- Project description
- Financing plan
- Proof of SME status (e.g., SME information sheet)
- Confirmation of payment of collectively agreed wage or equivalent remuneration
Description
The Digitalization Grant EFRE – Initiation Projects is aimed at commercially active micro-enterprises and members of the liberal professions with headquarters or business premises in Saxony who wish to implement a digitalization project for the first time. Projects for the planning, conception, preparation, and technical implementation as well as the acquisition of necessary hardware and software are eligible for funding. Also covered is the introduction of the solution including training to build digital potential. The funding amount is up to 60% of eligible expenses; in cases of collectively agreed or equivalent remuneration, the rate increases to up to 70%. A maximum of €10,000 can be approved over a period of up to twelve months. Applications can be submitted continuously until the program ends (31.12.2027) via the SAB funding portal.
A prerequisite is classification as a micro-enterprise according to the EU SME definition and the first-time implementation of a digitalization project without prior funding grants from state or federal sources. A minimum volume of eligible expenses amounting to €5,000 must be demonstrated. The goal is a verifiable increase in the level of digitalization within the company. The SAB – regional development bank of the Free State of Saxony – reviews applications for completeness and fulfillment of funding criteria. This program supports companies in developing digital expertise, optimizing operational processes, and securing long-term competitive advantages through technological innovation.