The German Federation of Industrial Research Associations (AiF) has suspended the acceptance of funding applications for the ZIM (Central Innovation Program for SMEs) program indefinitely since October 7, 2021 at 8:00 p.m. The suspension was due on the one hand to the unclear allocation of funds by a possible new federal government and on the other hand to an already excessive distribution of funds in 2021. The MEDIAN experts do not expect the program to be continued before April/May 2022.
The ZIM program offers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) a relatively uncomplicated way of obtaining funding (in some cases up to 100% of the costs incurred). As a result, the ZIM program is now a key pillar in the research and development of medium sand in Germany. The simplicity of the program and the high funding and approval rates have led to many companies relying exclusively on this program and neglecting other funding sources. In recent years, a large number of “funding consultancy firms” have also emerged that have focused exclusively on the ZIM program.
From MEDIAN’s point of view, the funding projects should be broadly diversified with regard to the funding providers and not unilaterally committed to one program. If you are looking for alternatives to the ZIM funding program, please contact us. We have many years of experience with various federal and state programs. Work together with MEDIAN, we will be happy to advise you with the aim of broadening your position with regard to the acquisition of funding.
