Who Is Eligible for Funding?

The BAFA programme “Funding for Business Consulting for SMEs” supports small and medium-sized enterprises — both newly established and established businesses — that want to optimise their business structures, develop new strategies, or strengthen their competitiveness. This support is also available several months or years after a business has been founded.

When is BAFA-funded consulting particularly useful?

• After starting a business (6–36 months)

• During periods of growth or strategic realignment

• When launching new offers or targeting new customer groups

• When business decisions become more complex

• When an external perspective helps you set priorities

If you’re looking for a structured, objective perspective on your business, it’s worth exploring whether you qualify for funding.

How Much Funding Can You Receive?

The grant amount depends on the maximum eligible consulting costs (the assessment basis) and the location of your business.

• Western Germany (excluding the Lüneburg and Trier regions), Berlin, and the Leipzig region: 50% funding, up to €1,750.

• Eastern Germany (excluding Berlin and the Leipzig region), as well as the Lüneburg and Trier regions: 80% funding, up to €2,800.

How Do You Apply?

Applications are submitted online via the official BAFA application portal. Once the application has been reviewed by the relevant administrative office, the applicant business will be informed of the outcome.

You must wait for approval before signing the consulting contract or starting the consultation. Retroactive applications are not permitted.

Businesses that have been operating for less than one year at the time of application must first attend a free information session with a regional partner of their choice. You can arrange an initial conversation here.

The consulting must be completed within a maximum of six months. After completion, proof of the services provided must be submitted online via the BAFA application portal.

The applicant business must also provide proof that the consulting fees have been paid in full. The grant is approved and paid out after BAFA has completed its final review.

Your Consultant for BAFA-Funded Business Consulting

I have successfully completed the BAFA approval process and am registered under consultant number #209876 — a number you’ll need when submitting your application.

A free initial consultation to discuss your specific needs is included as standard. My approach is tailored to you and your business, with a focus on practical support that helps you make meaningful progress.

Funding Period and Process

The funding period is a maximum of six months. The consulting must be completed and settled within this period. I charge only for services actually delivered.

If you don’t use the full grant amount, you may be able to submit further applications within the following five years, subject to the applicable funding rules. A total of up to five applications may be submitted.

Applications are submitted online through the official BAFA portal.

Newly established businesses must attend a free information session with a regional contact before consulting begins. The responsible administrative office will review your application and notify you of the outcome. Only after receiving formal authorisation to begin may you sign the consulting contract and start the engagement.

Funding cannot be granted retroactively, so make sure to apply in good time.

An Important Note on Choosing Your Consultant

Unfortunately, funding is sometimes misused when consultants charge high, flat-rate fees without delivering the corresponding level of service.

A trustworthy consulting engagement should always begin with a free initial conversation to clarify your needs, goals, and expectations. Rather than following a standardised process, you should receive individual guidance tailored to your business and its specific challenges.

You can find further details about the funding guidelines and application process in the official federal funding guidelines (PDF).

Ready to apply?

Submit your application through the official BAFA application portal.