Innovative Projects for the Improvement of Bicycle Traffic in Germany

Innovative initiatives to promote cycling nationwide are funded, testing and evaluating novel concepts, technical solutions, and planning approaches. The target groups include municipalities and public authorities as well as research institutions, companies, start-ups, non-profit organizations, and founders. The objective is to increase the attractiveness, safety, and efficiency of cycling through pilot and model projects or research undertakings. Funding is provided as a non-repayable grant and covers, among other things, planning and engineering services, construction measures, evaluation and monitoring, as well as personnel and material costs. Acquisition costs for vehicles or ongoing operational and administrative expenses are, however, not eligible for funding.

A continuously open application submission process allows for applications to be submitted at any time, provided key requirements are met: the project location must be in Germany, the initiative must aim for a tangible improvement of cycling, and demonstrate its innovative character. The evaluation focuses on the degree of innovation, traffic safety-relevant aspects, ecological and sustainable impacts, and economic viability. For the application, a fully completed application form, a concise project description, a cost and financing plan, as well as evidence of the innovation content and the project management’s CV must be submitted. The measure is accompanied and administratively managed by the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV) and the executing Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM). This funding opportunity is aimed at all those who develop pioneering cycling solutions and wish to test their practical applicability under real conditions.