In a rapidly evolving business landscape, innovation is the key to success.

01 What is ZIM ?

The Central Innovation Programme for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (ZIM) is a nationwide funding programme of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) designed for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and research institutions. At Peak Orange Consulting, we assist you in realising your innovation projects with ZIM funding. Our experienced team guides you from the initial concept to the successful completion of your project.

02 Who can get the research allowance?

The ZIM Promotion is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with fewer than 500 employees, as well as business-oriented research facilities in Germany. Companies with up to 1,000 employees may also qualify for support under certain conditions, provided that their projects demonstrate innovation and contribute to enhancing competitiveness.

03 What is being funded?

The ZIM Promotion programme provides financial support for a wide range of innovation projects, including individual, cooperative and network projects. Funding is available for research and development activities that lead to the creation of new products, processes or services. Additionally, the introduction of innovative solutions and the conduct of feasibility studies can also be financially supported. The objective is to strengthen the innovation capacity and competitiveness of companies on a sustainable basis.

04 How much is the subsidy?

The amount of research allowance is calculated based on your qualified F&E expenditures. Your company is eligible to receive up to 25% of these costs. This also includes commissioned research, enabling the costs of external research services to be reimbursed on an incremental basis. The legislation defines an upper limit to ensure a consistent level of funding, which includes a wide range of companies and projects and thus strengthens the innovation capacity at the location in Germany over the long term.


To determine the potential subsidy amount, please refer to the following example:
Two internal employees worked on a research project from January 2021 to December 2022, each contributing 50% of their time. Additionally, you engaged an external firm with a personnel budget of €80,000 for the project.

05 Discover your funding potential

Peak Orange Consulting is committed to providing flexible and individualised solutions. To explore the potential for your project, we invite you to take advantage of our complimentary feasibility assessment, tailored to your schedule. Together, we will identify the opportunities that align with your objectives.

For further information or to discuss your project, please do not hesitate to contact us via email or telephone. We are dedicated to understanding your needs and objectives.

Check your potential now