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Central Innovation Programme for SMEs (Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand, ZIM)

ZIM Feasibility Studies

Funds German small businesses preparing technology concepts for future project development and commercialization planning.

OpenBundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWE)Germany
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About

ZIM Feasibility Studies is the entry-level track of the Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand (ZIM), Germany's principal SME innovation grant programme administered by the Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWE). The track funds preparatory technical and market studies that an SME intends to take forward into a full ZIM Individual or Cooperation R&D project. Under the revised 2025 …

What this grant funds

Preparatory technical and market studies for an R&D project that the applicant intends to take forward through ZIM Individual or Cooperation tracks. Technology-neutral — any sector or technology area is eligible.

Key facts
CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.Rolling
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.10 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.12 months
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.50%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.€50M
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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: www.bundeswirtschaftsministerium.de