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

ZIM Innovation Networks

Supports German innovation ecosystems by funding management of networks that connect multiple companies and institutions.

ZIM Innovation Networks fund the external management services required to coordinate a thematically focused R&D network of German companies and research institutions. The programme is administered by the Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWE) through ZIM. Unlike other ZIM tracks where funding flows directly to the R&D project executor, Innovation Networks funding goes to the external network management organisation — typically a specialised innovation services firm or industry association — which uses the grant to provide coordination, project development, partner-matching, and joint R&D initiation services to the network's members. National networks must comprise at least six German companies; international networks must include at least four German companies plus at least two foreign companies and one foreign institution. Awards are estimated to range from €200,000 to €600,000, reflecting multi-year multi-staff network management scope.

Eligibility to receive Innovation Networks funding belongs to the network management organisation, which may be a for-profit company or a non-profit entity — universities and research institutions are excluded from the management role. Member companies of the network are not bound by SME criteria to participate, meaning larger companies may join as network members. International networks attract higher funding rates than national networks. The network must have a clear thematic R&D focus — not a general industry forum — and a multi-year roadmap of concrete joint R&D projects that members intend to pursue under ZIM Individual or Cooperation tracks. Applications are submitted on a rolling basis to VDI/VDE Innovation + Technik GmbH, the designated project management agency for Innovation Networks under the 2025 reorganisation.

The strategic value of the Innovation Networks track is that it creates a structured pipeline: the network management organisation attracts members, identifies joint R&D opportunities, and facilitates follow-on ZIM Cooperation or Individual applications by network members. For technology clusters, regional innovation agencies, and SME associations managing cross-company R&D agendas, ZIM Innovation Networks provide both operational funding and a formal governance structure. The Innovationstag Mittelstand on June 11, 2026 is the main national event for ZIM network stakeholders.