Berlin is one of Europe’s most dynamic deep tech ecosystems. It is a hub for outstanding research, international talent and a vibrant start-up scene – creating innovations that are transforming the economy and society in the long term. However, targeted funding is crucial, particularly in the deep tech sector, where the development of new technologies is often capital-intensive and risky. it creates planning security, reduces financial risks and accelerates the path from idea to marketable product.
The Investitionsbank Berlin (IBB) and IBB Ventures offer a wide range of funding and financing instruments specifically tailored to technology-oriented start-ups and growing companies. From grants and low-interest loans to venture capital investments, there is a suitable programme for every stage of development.
The most important funding programmes for Berlin-based deep tech companies
Pro FIT – Early-stage financing
A combination of grants and low-interest loans for technology-oriented start-ups in the early stages of development. Support is provided for the development of infrastructure, personnel and initial development projects up to €500,000.
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Pro FIT – Project financing
For research, development and innovation projects in existing companies. Both industrial research and experimental development are supported – with grants and loans of up to €1 million.
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GründungsBONUS Plus
Grant programme for young Berlin-based companies up to 18 months after founding. Supports innovative, sustainable business models with up to 50% of eligible expenses (max. £50,000).
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Berlin Start – Start-up and growth loans
Low-interest loans for Berlin-based companies up to seven years after founding. Supports investments and working capital with loan amounts of up to €1.5 million and guarantees from BBB.
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Berlin Startup Scholarship
The Berlin Startup Scholarship supports founders and research teams with innovative, technology-oriented business ideas in the pre-startup phase. Funding is provided for up to 18 months with a monthly scholarship (currently €2,000 per person) as well as coaching, mentoring and work infrastructure through partner universities and incubators.
Ideal for deep tech founders who want to develop their idea from research to market maturity.
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BerlinInnoGrowth (‘BIG’ programme)
The BIG programme supports growth-oriented Berlin-based SMEs and start-ups in scaling innovative products and services. The aim is to facilitate the transition from development to market penetration – with grants, advice and individual financing modules.
Particularly relevant for deep tech companies entering a growth phase or looking to tap into international markets.
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If you would like a comprehensive overview of all funding programmes, grants and financing options in Berlin, the IBB’s funding guide provides a concise summary of all relevant information, conditions and contact persons.
To the funding guide: https://www.ibb.de/de/ueber-uns/publikationen/foerderfibel.html
The most important financing programmes for Berlin-based deep tech companies
IBB Ventures is one of Berlin’s most active early-stage investors. In addition to the three existing VC funds – Technology (€60 million), Creative Industries (€40 million) and Impact (€30 million) – B# (‘Be sharp’) is now adding a pre-seed fund for deep tech start-ups (€10 million). IBB Ventures has already invested more than €300 million in over 300 Berlin-based companies. Its portfolio currently includes more than 100 companies, including well-known start-ups such as Babbel, Qdrant and aignostics.
B# – ‘be sharp’ pre-seed fund
The new pre-seed fund is aimed at scientific spin-offs and early-stage deep tech start-ups in Berlin.
IBB Ventures provides teams in the pre-seed phase with €100,000 to €400,000 in the form of convertible bonds and also supports them with coaching and network access to bridge the critical gap between research and start-up. The aim is to promote excellent technology ideas at an early stage and prepare them for market entry.
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VC fund technology
The financing offer for tech start-ups with scalable business models. IBB Ventures invests equity capital of €200,000 to €1 million with a focus on the seed phase – with the possibility of follow-up financing of up to €6 million.
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The right fit for every need
Berlin offers deep tech companies a unique combination of research, capital and political support. With IBB’s targeted support programmes and IBB Ventures’ financing offers, founders receive the start-up assistance they need to turn technological excellence into economic success – thereby further strengthening the capital’s innovative power.