Grants for Business Succession, Start-ups, or Active Participation in Crafts in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (Master Craftsman Bonus)
One-time non-repayable grant of €7,500 for master craftsmen or industrial masters upon first full-time self-employment through business takeover, start-up, or active participation in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania; an additional €2,500 for the creation of a social security-obligatory job; applications possible until 31.12.2028.
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Grant criteria
Funding objective
The state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania supports master craftsmen and industrial masters in the initial establishment of a full-time independent business in the skilled trades through business succession, start-ups, or active participation, and furthermore promotes the preservation and creation of jobs.
Eligible expenses
- Living expenses
Eligible to apply
- Founders
Funding requirements
- Business location in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
- Master craftsman or industrial master examination or equivalent university degree (§7 HwO)
- First-time establishment of a self-employed full-time existence through business succession, start-up, or active participation in a craft according to HwO
- Citizenship of an EU/EWR country or Switzerland or valid residence permit (valid for at least 18 months)
- Consultation with the responsible Chamber of Crafts regarding concept and viability
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Documents required for application
- Fully completed application form
- Proof of passed master craftsman examination or equivalent qualification
- Double-sided copy of valid identity card
- Professional statement from the responsible Chamber of Crafts
- Self-declaration of business takeover, start-up, or active participation
- De-minimis declaration
- Valid residence permit (if required)
- Employment contract (for level 2)
- Proof of paid social security contributions (pay slips, level 2)
Description
Funding Opportunity for Crafts and Industrial Masters in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania
The state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania grants a one-time, non-repayable subsidy of €7,500 for living expenses upon the first full-time self-employment in crafts through business takeover, start-up, or active participation. Additionally, a further €2,500 can be applied for if at least one new full-time job subject to social security contributions is created and filled for at least twelve months within one year after the founding. Eligible for funding are natural persons with a master craftsman’s certificate or an equivalent university degree according to § 7 HwO, who have their business location in the state and can provide proof of the required consultation with the responsible Chamber of Crafts. The funds are intended to secure mandatory jobs and promote new positions in the crafts sector.
Requirements and Application Details
Applications must be submitted to the State Development Institute M-V before the start of the project and no later than 31.12.2028. In addition to the application form, the following must be attached: proof of the master craftsman’s certificate or equivalent qualification, copy of the identity card, professional statement from the Chamber of Crafts, De-minimis declaration, and – for job promotion – employment contract and proof of social security contributions paid. EU/EEA citizenship or a corresponding residence permit with at least 18 months validity is required. The aim is the long-term preservation of existing jobs subject to social security contributions and the creation of new employment relationships. Proper application submission and prior consultation offer applicants planning security and facilitate a successful start into self-employment.