​​(Translated with ChatGPT without further editing)

Money for good ideas: The Federal Government’s “Research and Innovation” Funding Advisory Service supports companies in finding suitable funding programs for their innovation projects. In this interview, Ms. Bender explains how the advisory service works and why making a call is often well worth it.

Ms. Bender, you have been an advisor at the Funding Advisory Service for many years. What exactly does the service do and how does it support companies?

The Federal Funding Advisory Service for “Research and Innovation” is a central point of contact for companies seeking financial support for their projects in the fields of research, development, and innovation. Our task is to help companies – especially small and medium-sized enterprises – find the right funding programs. We provide tailored advice on various funding opportunities offered by federal ministries and, if necessary, refer to programs provided by individual federal states and the EU. Anyone who contacts us will receive quick and effective guidance to help them move forward.

Why should members reach out to the Funding Advisory Service?

Our advisory service offers valuable and practical tips to help navigate the complex world of funding. Entrepreneurs in particular face a wide range of challenges, which vary across sectors. That’s why there is no one-size-fits-all solution – instead, we offer a broad portfolio of funding opportunities. Our role is to provide targeted support, helping companies save time and resources while identifying the most suitable funding sources. For SMEs, we offer a special service called the “Business Navigator” (Lotsendienst für Unternehmen) tailored to their specific funding needs. For those involved in hydrogen technologies, our “Hydrogen Navigator” is available. So that’s three services in one – and the best part: everything is free of charge!

What kind of information can interested parties expect from you?

We advise on research and technology programs from the BMWK, the BMBF, and other relevant ministries. The more precisely a project is described to us, the more accurately we can identify suitable funding opportunities. We offer sound advice, whether you are looking for general information or detailed insights into specific funding measures – regardless of whether you are experienced in funding or completely new to the field. We can be reached in many ways. The easiest and most direct way is often by calling our hotline at 0800 2623 008 or by emailing us at beratung@foerderinfo.bund.de. We also attend trade fairs and events throughout Germany, where we give expert talks and offer personal consultations. For example, you can meet us annually at Hannover Messe or at the BMWK’s SME Innovation Day in June in Berlin. Additionally, our website www.foerderinfo.bund.de provides comprehensive information and a helpful first overview.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

The most important thing is: the earlier you contact us, the better. The financial risks of research and development can be significantly reduced through funding. We recommend checking during the project planning stage whether funding is an option. It’s definitely worth having a conversation with us! And for those who want to stay regularly informed about new funding opportunities, we recommend subscribing to our newsletter. It is published approximately every two weeks, depending on the release of new funding information. You can sign up easily on our website:

Alexandra Bender has many years of experience as an advisor in the team of the Federal Government’s “Research and Innovation” Funding Advisory Service. She advises, among others, small and medium-sized enterprises on funding opportunities for research and development projects. She studied Public Service Management and Public Administration. Her professional career began in the chemical industry. For more than 20 years, she has been dedicated to the field of research and innovation funding.

Further information