Funding of projects to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs

Funding for projects to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs in Vienna supports business initiatives aimed at sustainably improving the market position of small and medium-sized enterprises and strengthening entrepreneurial commitment. Since 01.01.2013, SMEs with a registered office or place of business in Vienna can submit grant applications at any time. Projects are funded that do not already fall under the services of Section I of the Federal Ministry for Economy, Energy and Tourism and comply with the General Framework Guidelines for the Granting of Subsidies from Federal Funds (ARR 2014). The scope ranges from consulting and concept development to investment projects as well as measures for digitalization and process optimization, provided that these lead to a noticeable increase in competitiveness.

The target group comprises entrepreneurs who have not previously received funding under Section I and wish to expand their innovative capacity and market viability. The one-time grant provides financial relief, creating leeway for strategic projects. The continuously open application deadline allows for needs-based planning and implementation without being bound to fixed deadlines. The responsible funding authority is Section I, Department 4 – SMEs at the Federal Ministry for Economy, Energy and Tourism. Further information can be found in the legal framework provisions, especially the ARR 2014.