Saarland: 65 Million Euros for SMEs and Start-ups - Saarland Unveils €65 Million Boost for SMEs and Startups in 2025
Saarland has rolled out a €65 million funding package to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups grow. The initiative is part of a wider €200 million support scheme launched in 2025, which has already seen strong demand from businesses across the region.
The new funds will target three main areas: interest rate cuts, flexible loans, and equity investments for high-risk projects. Officials say the programme offers more financing options than ever before for local companies.
The €65 million allocation breaks down into three key pillars. A total of €7 million will go toward reducing interest rates by up to one percent annually for firms investing in digital or eco-friendly upgrades. Another €35 million will provide subordinated loans of up to €1.5 million, helping businesses strengthen their credit ratings and cash flow. The remaining €22.6 million will be available as equity capital, supporting innovative startups and high-risk projects with investments between €250,000 and €1.5 million.
Since the broader €200 million SME package began last year, around 420 companies have secured funding. The largest share—about 400 applications—focused on digitalisation, with €2 million already paid out. In the hospitality sector, 16 businesses applied for modernisation grants, receiving nearly €3 million in subsidies for projects worth around €6 million in total.
A separate €15 million innovation bonus has also drawn interest, with four applications submitted so far. This fund aims to link SME projects with research institutions. Both programmes receive co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), with 60% coming from state funds and 40% from the EU.
Doris Woll, chairwoman of the Saarland Investment and Credit Bank (SIKB), noted that the region now offers its best-ever range of financing tools for businesses. The schemes cover everything from digital upgrades to sustainability projects, with hospitality and tech sectors seeing the highest uptake so far.
The funding packages are already making an impact, with hundreds of applications processed and millions disbursed. Digitalisation and hospitality remain the top priorities, while equity capital and low-interest loans aim to boost innovation and financial stability.
Both programmes will continue to accept applications, with ERDF support ensuring a mix of state and EU backing for eligible projects.
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