push! – The Scholarship for Your Start-up in Hesse

push! – the scholarship for technology-oriented and knowledge-based start-ups in Hesse is aimed at founders and young companies that have been active for a maximum of five years with an innovative, economically viable, and sustainable business model. Within twelve months of the grant approval, the program provides a one-time, non-repayable subsidy of up to €40,000. Eligible expenses include personnel costs as well as other operating expenses such as rent or fees. Start-ups must be based in Hesse or establish their headquarters there no later than three months after approval and meet the SME criteria. A prerequisite for application is a comprehensive project description including a pitch deck, project plan, and financing overview, as well as the CVs of the founders. The program explicitly supports business models that contribute to pressing future challenges and take sustainability goals into account.

The selection process consists of a two-stage evaluation: In the first phase, an expert jury reviews the submitted project descriptions based on innovation content, sustainability aspects, market and growth potential, and team quality. Successful project descriptions receive a funding recommendation and are invited to submit a formal application to the HA Hessen Agentur. After formal and substantive review, approval is granted, after which the funds can be drawn in partial amounts. Deviations from the planned expenditures are possible within the overall budget. A final usage report including a factual report, list of receipts, and proof of the company’s continued existence must be submitted within two months after project completion. The funding measure is implemented on behalf of the Hessian Ministry of Economics by HA Hessen Agentur GmbH in cooperation with StartHub Hessen.