INVEST – Grant for Venture Capital

The INVEST grant for venture capital promotes private and entrepreneurial investments nationwide in innovative, growth-oriented start-ups in Germany. The aim is to strengthen the expansion of venture capital in young technology and growth companies by granting investors a proportional subsidy of 20% on assumed equity risks. Eligible for funding are equity investments starting from a minimum amount of €10,000 in start-ups based in Germany that are not yet profitable. Thus, the program is equally targeted at business angel networks, investment companies, and enterprises that wish to invest specifically in future-oriented business models. The ongoing application process at the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) enables flexible planning and short-term capital provision to support dynamic founding phases.

For submission, a fully completed BAFA form, proof of capital provision, and a description of the specific investment object are required. The funding guideline stipulates that only financings in start-ups in the growth phase are considered; the acquisition of shares in already profitable companies remains excluded. The grant is paid promptly after positive review and relieves the investment budget when entering venture capital participations. As the responsible administrative body, BAFA handles the application processing on behalf of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) to ensure transparent and efficient implementation. Through this government support, a decisive contribution is made to making innovative ideas marketable and sustainably strengthening the German start-up ecosystem.