Berlin has established itself as a dynamic and innovative startup hub, and with programs such as ProNTI (Program to Promote Non-Technical Innovations), the city offers founders valuable support. This program aims to promote the development of business models and concepts based on non-technical innovations. For startups, this means the opportunity to receive financial support in the form of grants that do not have to be repaid, and thus bring their innovative ideas to market faster and more efficiently.
What is the ProNTi funding program?
ProNti is a funding program initiated by the Berlin Senate Administration, which is aimed at supporting non-technical innovations in Berlin's economy in particular. Eligible areas include innovative business models, cultural and creative industry innovations, and projects with a high social impact. The program is open to startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the social economy based in Berlin.
Funding criteria and application process
In order to benefit from ProNti, certain criteria must be met:
- The project must be carried out in the state of Berlin.
- It must have a clear unique selling point.
- The financing of the company must be secured.
- Without the subsidy, the project should not be able to be implemented or should only be implemented with a delay.
- The ecological, economic and social sustainability of the project must be demonstrated.
The application is made via the electronic application system of IBB Business Team GmbH. It is important that all required information and documentation is submitted carefully and completely.
Project phases and funding amounts
ProNti covers three project phases:
- Validation: In this phase, the feasibility and basic applicability of the innovation is examined. Startups can receive up to 60,000€ in subsidies here.
- Pioneering: This is about the transferability and scalability of innovation. The funding can amount to up to 120,000€.
- commercialization: Projects that bring their innovation to market during this phase can also be supported with up to 120,000€.
For projects that extend over two phases, funding of a maximum of 140,000€ is even possible.
Funding quotas and own contribution
The program provides that young companies (under 5 years of age) can receive up to 75% of total eligible expenditure and older companies up to 50%. An appropriate financial buffer must be proven in order to ensure the financing of the project, as with all grant programs, pre-financing must first be carried out before the subsidy is then refunded.
Current situation and outlook
At present, the funding provided by the Berlin Senate Administration for 2023 has already been exhausted. However, it is planned to continue the program in Q1 2024. For startups, this means that early planning and preparation of applications for the coming year can be decisive in order to end up right at the top of the pile and receive the funding notice quickly.
Added value through collaboration with Dimler&Karcher
Applying for funding can be complicated and time-consuming. Working with Dimler&Karcher offers startups the following benefits:
- Expert advice on the requirements and criteria of the PRONTI program.
- Support in the structured and efficient application process.
- Insights into best practices and strategies for success for an optimized funding opportunity.
Dimler&Karcher has extensive experience in the area of public funding and can help startups get the most out of programs such as ProNti.
conclusion
The ProNti funding program offers startups in Berlin an excellent opportunity to drive forward non-technical innovations and receive grants that can accelerate their development and growth. Although funding for 2023 has already been spent, interested companies should keep an eye on the announcement for early 2024 and prepare to submit an application. If you notice, we will be happy to inform you as soon as it starts again. With the support of experts such as Dimler&Karcher, the process can be simplified and the chances of success improved.
