Discover which investments – from machinery and digitalization to decarbonization – currently receive the highest subsidies and how your company can make the most of these opportunities.
Investing with a Tailwind
Many investments in Germany are specifically subsidized. Companies that take advantage of these opportunities secure not only financial grants but also strategic benefits. In this article, we present the 5 most important subsidized investments for companies, from modern production to digitalization and sustainable projects. Knowing these funding areas allows companies to make more targeted investment decisions and maximize grant funding.
Funding Focus 1: Machinery and Equipment for Modern Production
Investments in machinery and technical equipment are classic targets for investment subsidies. Both new production lines and individual devices that improve efficiency or save resources are supported. Particularly attractive is the EEW program, which subsidizes energy-efficient process conversions with up to 60%. Other programs, like GRW or state-level initiatives, also support machinery investments, especially if they contribute to securing the company’s location.
Funding Focus 2: Digitalization and Industry 4.0
Digital transformation is now a major area for subsidies. Support extends not only to software solutions but also to the implementation of digital production processes, cloud infrastructures, or platform technologies. Federal or state-level digitalization grants make digital transformation financially feasible. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) especially benefit from simplified conditions and high subsidy rates.
Funding Focus 3: Energy Efficiency and Resource Conservation
Climate protection is a matter of investment and is therefore also subsidized. The Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG) supports measures such as ventilation, cooling, heat pumps, and building automation. The Energy and Resource Efficiency in Industry (EEW) program funds industrial process conversions, electrification, or heat recovery. Companies that invest specifically in reducing their CO₂ footprint can receive subsidies of up to 60%.
Funding Focus 4: Sustainability and Decarbonization
Currently, there is strong demand for investments that help achieve climate targets. In addition to EEW, the Federal Government’s Climate and Transformation Fund investment package provides support. Focus areas include switching to renewable energy, decarbonizing production processes, converting vehicle fleets to electric, and energy-efficient retrofitting of industrial buildings.
Funding Focus 5: Market-Oriented Innovations
Investments in research and development, such as new products, processes, or platforms, can be subsidized through the research allowance. This funding is structured via tax incentives and can be claimed retroactively. It is particularly suitable for companies driving internal innovation, regardless of project success. Since 2025, the program has been significantly expanded, with higher thresholds and allowances for overhead costs.
Use Funding Where It Provides the Greatest Leverage
Not every investment is automatically eligible for funding, but many can be structured to qualify. The key is to consider funding opportunities during the planning phase. With the right partner, companies can strategically align investment decisions and secure grants ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of euros.
Source: www.de.epsa.com