Joint Task "Improvement of the Regional Economic Structure" – Support for Commercial Enterprises (GRW-G) – Growth Program for Small Businesses

The Growth Program for Small Businesses specifically supports commercial investment projects in Brandenburg to create or secure permanent jobs and to offset regional locational disadvantages. Eligible for funding are construction and expansion investments, diversification of production, as well as the takeover of closed-down businesses. Eligible applicants are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the commercial sector, including the tourism industry. Financing is provided as a non-repayable grant with a funding rate of 20% to 35% of the eligible expenses; in areas bordering Poland, a 10% bonus may be granted. The investment amount must be between EUR 60,000 and EUR 3 million, with funding limited to the portion that does not exceed EUR 750,000 per newly created permanent job and EUR 500,000 per secured permanent job.

A prerequisite for funding is compliance with the EU SME definition, a non-aid own contribution of at least 25%, and a maximum share of temporary agency workers of 30%. Prior to the start of the investment, mandatory consultation by the Brandenburg State Economic Development Agency (WFBB) on the topic of "Good Work" is required. Further admission criteria include proof of significant regional economic effects in accordance with the GRW coordination framework. Companies in difficulty and those relocating operations from Berlin to Brandenburg are excluded. Completed application documents must be submitted to the Investment Bank of the State of Brandenburg (ILB) by September 30 of a fiscal year to enable a timely funding decision.