Innovative Shipbuilding Secures Competitive Jobs

The funding program aims to sustainably increase the innovation capacity and competitiveness of German shipbuilding companies and thereby secure high-quality jobs in the long term. For the fiscal year 2026, a total of €34.2 million in grant funds is available, which can be accessed through continuously open application procedures. In particular, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with headquarters or operations in Germany that implement innovative development or modernization projects in shipbuilding benefit from this support. Through targeted investments in manufacturing facilities, research and development, as well as modernization measures, both production processes can be optimized and future-oriented technologies established.

Key requirements include proof of a concrete innovation project in shipbuilding as well as the ability to secure or create jobs with the proposed project. In the evaluation process, particular consideration is given to the project's level of innovation, its economic viability, and the expected market potential. The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) provides these funds through the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA), which acts as the grant authority responsible for technical review and support. Companies and start-ups can submit applications at any time to make a significant contribution to strengthening German shipbuilding and consolidating attractive employment conditions.