Innovation Promotion

The innovation funding of the State of Salzburg is aimed at small commercial enterprises with a business location and membership in the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce that wish to implement operational research and development projects. Projects from the areas of industrial and commercial research, pre-competitive development, the development of new products, services, and production processes, as well as significant improvements to existing solutions, are supported. Thematically, particular focus is placed on the areas of construction and renovation, wood products and technologies, the creative industries, biosciences and applied health research, as well as ICT and new media. Funding is provided as a direct grant of up to 20 % of eligible costs (maximum €20,000), with the possibility of additionally claiming two bonuses of 5 % each (each up to €5,000) for environmentally and resource-conserving effects, projects from southern regions of the state, or cooperative ventures. Submissions are possible within three months from the project start; proof of use is provided by the applicants themselves.

For the application, a cost and financing plan, a valid trade license, evidence of applications or commitments from other funding bodies, as well as the current annual financial statement are required. The aim of this funding initiative is to initiate, expand, and noticeably accelerate innovation processes in order to strengthen the competitiveness and future viability of the Salzburg economy. The measures can be applied for continuously, allowing companies to respond flexibly to market demands. The legal basis and detailed guidelines are set out in the “Innovation Funding Guideline” of the Office of the Salzburg State Government.