Founding Grant NRW

The NRW Start-up Grant supports innovative start-ups in North Rhine-Westphalia and is aimed at founders who wish to develop future-oriented technologies or services. Over a period of up to twelve months, participants receive monthly support of up to 1,200 euros as well as tailored coaching through an accredited start-up network. The goal is to ensure financial security during the early project phase while simultaneously guiding the entrepreneurial endeavor with experienced mentors and experts. The support includes regular reflection on the business plan, assistance with capital acquisition, and the identification of milestones for the successful implementation of the business idea.

Applications can be submitted at any time via one of the recognized start-up networks in NRW. A prerequisite for funding is an innovative start-up idea in a forward-looking technology or service sector, as well as proof of a registered office or residence in North Rhine-Westphalia. After a successful application, the start-up network, together with the scholarship holders, establishes an individual coaching and support plan. The selection of the funded candidates is overseen by a qualified jury consisting of at least three members with a balanced gender ratio. This ensures that critical developments are identified early and strategies for optimizing the business model are jointly developed.