The Small Project Funding Program is seeking applications to support SMEs and startups for efficient research and development, focusing on innovation and prototype creation.
The focus areas and objectives of this program include research and development, prototype and product development, MVP and proof of concept creation, innovation promotion, startup growth, SME competitiveness, digital innovation, sustainability goals, social responsibility, diversity, and technology-neutral research support.
The program is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises and startups in conducting research and development activities up to the prototype stage. It aims to strengthen the innovation base of the SME and startup sector while encouraging new business creation and responsible innovation practices.
Funding supports projects that lead to usable products, services, processes, or digital innovations, including experimental development such as Minimum Viable Products and Proof of Concept outcomes. Companies are free to define their own research themes and technological focus areas.
The maximum project volume under this program is 150,000 euros, with a grant of up to 88,500 euros per project provided by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency. The program is designed to give companies a competitive advantage by enabling faster and more efficient innovation development.
Eligible applicants include small and medium-sized enterprises and startups, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis. Cooperation with academic institutions is optional and may provide additional benefits, although it is not mandatory for eligibility.
The program supports innovation-driven growth and helps businesses transform ideas into practical, market-ready solutions.
For more information, visit FFG.
