Corporate Innovation Funding

The Business Innovation Support program targets SMEs in Upper Austria and Vienna that are members of the Industry, Trade and Crafts division or selected specialist groups of the Information and Consulting division at the Upper Austrian Chamber of Commerce. From 01/01/2024 to 12/31/2026, innovative investment projects in tangible (e.g., buildings, machinery) and intangible assets will be supported. Funding is provided in the form of non-repayable grants or interest subsidies, which have a positive leverage effect on research, digitalization, and sustainable growth. Applications must be submitted prior to project commencement and require a detailed project description including cost, financing, and timeline plans, as well as proof of SME status. Additionally, eligible project-related costs must amount to at least 2.5 times the average standard depreciation (Normal-AfA) of the last three financial years and demonstrate a high degree of innovation.

The grant secures or creates qualified jobs, unlocks market potential, and advances eco-friendly, energy- and resource-efficient technologies and products. Evaluation criteria include, besides the degree of innovation, sustainability aspects in particular. For submission, the funding application according to the guidelines, a comprehensive project description, cost breakdowns, and the trade license are required. Processing is carried out by the Department of Economy and Research of the Office of the Upper Austrian State Government. After complete review and positive decision, funds are disbursed as a non-repayable grant or interest subsidy. This funding instrument creates an incentive effect for companies to strengthen their innovative capacity and sustainably develop the economic location of Upper Austria.