Projekt.Start - The Initiative

Frau in weißer Bluse und dunkler Hose springt in einem Serverraum und hält dabei ein aufgeklapptes Laptop in den Händen.

Support of preparatory work for a concrete research project

Projekt.Start supports preparatory work that leads to a consistent project and thus to a consistent funding application. Funding is available for the potential assessment of a planned research and development project to be submitted by SMEs or startups.

+++ Current notice +++

The Projekt.Start call for proposals 2026 closes on May 04, 2026 (12:00 p.m.). There is no more budget available.

What is Projekt.Start about?

Projekt.Start can increase your chances of receiving subsequent project funding.

However, Projekt.Start funding does not prejudge the funding decision to be made for the subsequent research and development project.

Not sure whether your organization qualifies as an SME? With our SME quick check (in German), you can carry out a non-binding initial assessment in just a few steps. 

Projekt.Start key data

  • Funding is open to all topics and technologies
  • Evaluations are conducted by experts of the FFG (swift approval processes)
  • Costs max. 10,000 EUR (min. 60 % personell costs, third-party costs, travel costs)
  • Grant up to max. 6,000 EUR (funding intensity is therefore 60 %)
  • 1 Projekt.Start per year and company (duration 12 months)
  • Project application within 6 months, otherwise the conditional grant approval expires!
  • Ready for use: General Programme, Small Scale Project, Frontrunner, Life Sciences, Eureka/Eurostars

The essential in brief

Initiative for
Single researchersSmall and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)Start Up
Funders
Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure
FFG - Austrian Research Promotion Agency

Contact

GANSS Sarah

Sarah GANSS

+43 577 55-1517 E-Mail

Gabriele KÜSSLER

+43 577 55-1504 E-Mail

About the FFG

The Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) is the national funding institution for industry-related research and development in Austria. FFG funding plays a key role in generating new knowledge, developing new products and services, and thereby becoming more competitive in the global market.
Learn more

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