Start-ups usually go through the following development phases:
- Pre-seed phase: Evaluation of initial ideas preceding start-up.
- Seed phase: Establishment of the company with the aim to implement a specific idea; search for investors.
- Development phase: Implementation of the research and development project to realise the idea or innovation.
- Prototype phase: Development and production of first prototype; involvement of pilot customers and friendly customers.
- Market entry: Market introduction, production start-up and start of intensive marketing.
The FFG offers tailored support for innovative business ventures in any phase of the start-up process:
- RSA: Assistance in the establishment of spin-offs for the exploitation of development results obtained from university projects.
- Placements: Funding of R&D related placements for pupils.
- COIN networks: Support in establishing interdisciplinary cross-sector networks.
- AplusB: Austrian start-up programme for the support of academic spin-offs.
- Projekt.Start: Assistance in preparing applications for start-up funding.
- Innovation Voucher: Promotion of cooperation between companies and university or non-university research institutions.
- Start-Up Funding: Support in the implementation of a research and development project, starting from the idea through to the prototype stage.
- Feasibility Studies: Assistance in examining the technical feasibility of an idea or development approach.
- Markt.Start: Support in the production and market introduction (including distribution) of products developed as part of an FFG-funded R&D project.
- Clinical trials (KLIPHA): Funding of phase I and II clinical trials for the development of new medicines and treatments.
- Thematic programmes: Calls for proposals for projects on clearly defined topics, which are mainly targeted at consortia.