Using the BAFA subsidy for management consulting
Consulting costs money, and Germany's Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control covers part of it. The programme targets small and medium-sized companies. The path to the subsidy is regulated and plannable.
Who qualifies
Small and medium-sized companies under the EU definition qualify, as do liberal professions. Young companies and firms in difficulty have their own conditions. Headcount and revenue decide whether your company is in.
What is subsidised
The subsidy covers consulting on economic, financial, personnel and organisational questions of running a company. Pure tax or legal advice is excluded. Current rates and caps are published on bafa.de and change with the programme guidelines.
How the application works
The application is filed online with BAFA before the consulting starts. After approval the consulting takes place, then you submit report and invoice. The subsidy is paid out after review. The order matters, consulting that has already started is not eligible.
The role of the listed consultant
The consulting has to be delivered by a consultant registered with BAFA. Steffen Herr is listed there under ID 193982. Guiding the application is part of his engagement.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to repay the subsidy?
No. It is a grant, not a loan. You carry your own share and advance the full amount until BAFA pays out.
How long does approval take?
Expect a few weeks between application and approval. Consulting may only start afterwards, so plan the lead time.
Can I get several consultations subsidised?
Yes, within the limits of the guideline. How many per period is published by BAFA and can be clarified in a first meeting.
Does the subsidy apply to founders?
Young companies are part of the programme's target group and have their own conditions. Before incorporation the programme does not apply, other funding routes exist for that.
