Leipzig, 22.02.2023: Digital transformation presents a challenge for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In order for SMEs to tap the full economic potential of digitalisation, the German Federal Government has launched the “Digital Jetzt” funding programme. This programme supports investments for digital technologies and the qualification of employees. In addition, the state of North Rhein-Westphalia is offering further support of targeted measures to improve information security with the “MID-Digitale Sicherheit” programme. 

With “Digital Jetzt”, the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action is offering a comprehensive funding programme for SMEs from all industries with 3 to 499 employees. Funding is provided for investments in software and hardware, especially for the internal and external networking of the company. Investments in qualification measures for employees will also be supported.  

This includes, in particular, qualification and further education measures for digital transformations, digital strategy and digital technologies as well as information security and data protection. The maximal funding amount is 50,000 EUR per company or up to 100,000 EUR for investments in value chain and value networks. The funding quota is scaled according to the company size and covers up to 40% of the investment costs. Applications can be submitted at www.digitaljetzt-portal.de until the end of 2023.  

With the “MID-Digitale Sicherheit” programme, the state of North Rhein-Westphalia is supporting companies in their defence against cybercrime. Funding will be provided for analyses, training, and selected software for resilient information security. The funding programme covers up to 80% of the eligible costs for micro and small enterprises, and up to 60% of the eligible costs for medium-sized companies, with the minimum being 4,000 EUR and maximum at 15,000 EUR. Application eligibility is limited to companies based in North Rhein-Westphalia. Funding is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with a monthly quota available. Once the quota has been reached, the system closes until the following month, when applications can be submitted again. Submissions can only be made online at www.mittelstand-innovativ-digital.nrw.  

Both funding programmes offer companies the possibility to realise their digital transformation with financial support and thus position themselves for the future and competitiveness.