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

The GRW-G funding guideline of the State of Brandenburg is specifically aimed at small commercial enterprises, including the tourism industry, that implement investment projects in business premises within the state. Funding is provided for the establishment, expansion, production diversification, fundamental process changes, and takeovers of closed or threatened-to-close businesses by independent investors. The goal is to create and secure permanent jobs as well as to compensate for locational disadvantages in structurally weak regions. Eligible investments range from EUR 60,000 up to a maximum of EUR 3 million. Funding is granted as a subsidy towards acquisition and production costs (construction measures, machinery, intangible assets) amounting to up to 35% of eligible expenses in C funding areas or up to 20% in D funding areas (an additional 10 percentage point bonus in C areas bordering Poland). A minimum equity contribution of 25% is required from companies defined as SMEs by the EU, as well as proof of regional economic effects through an increase in annual depreciation by at least 50% or an increase in permanent jobs by 10%. A professional statement from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce or Chamber of Crafts, as well as consultation on "Good Work," are mandatory application prerequisites.

For the application review, among other documents, a detailed project description, list of investment goods, business and financial plan, business evaluations, market positioning, as well as permits and funding decision documents must be submitted as relevant planning documents. The investment project may be started at the applicant's own risk before receiving the funding decision and must be implemented within 36 months. Newly created permanent jobs and investments must be maintained for at least five years. A follow-up approval may be granted if the targets (number of jobs, investment volume) are met and quality criteria, for example in the tourism sector (accessibility, environmental certifications), are complied with. The ILB is responsible for approval, consultation, and disbursement of the grants, which can also be applied for transformation and sustainability investments within the current fiscal year.