Young Entrepreneur Support Initiative of the State of Salzburg

The Young Entrepreneurs Support Program of the State of Salzburg assists economically independent small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through targeted interest subsidies for start-ups and business takeovers within the state of Salzburg. The program supports both natural persons and companies that have not previously been self-employed and requires the termination of prior dependent employment. Within a timeframe of six months after the start of the founding or investment, a subsidy on interest payments can be applied for. The aim of the funding is to strengthen the regional economic structure and to facilitate market entry for innovative founders and successors. The payment is made as a one-time premium, and proof of use must be provided by the beneficiaries or the financing bank.

Eligible to participate are only those holding a trade license with their main office in the state of Salzburg and membership in the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce. The application must include, among other documents, a CV with education and professional background, a current data extract from the responsible social insurance carrier, as well as the trade license. Depending on the project progress, additional documents such as creditworthiness reports, cost estimates, proof of other funding commitments, and in the case of business takeovers, the transfer agreement including the balance sheet may be required. Applications must be submitted no later than December 31, 2026, with the deadline being six months after the initial self-employment or investment commencement. This funding measure thus offers an attractive financing opportunity for founders and successors who wish to advance regional economic growth in Salzburg.