go-digital: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Small businesses in Germany can receive financial support to help with digital transformation and IT security through the go-digital scheme.
The go-digital scheme provides financial assistance to help small businesses modernize their technology, improve their digital processes, and secure their business operations.
Who it's for
This program is specifically designed to support small businesses within Germany. To qualify for this support, your business must employ fewer than 100 people. This makes it a targeted resource for smaller enterprises looking to modernize without the heavy financial burden of full-price digital upgrades.
What you get
You can receive financial support to help fund your business's digital transformation. This assistance is intended to cover the costs of various technological advancements, such as setting up a professional online shop to reach more customers or implementing secure IT systems to protect your business from digital threats. The goal is to help your business stay competitive in a modern economy through better digital tools and improved security.
What it costs you
While the scheme provides financial relief, it does require a specific approach to how you spend your budget. You cannot simply purchase software or hardware on your own and ask for reimbursement; instead, you must work with a consulting firm that has been officially authorized to provide these digital transformation services. Your primary investment is the time and coordination required to work alongside these professional consultants to implement your new digital systems.
The catch to know
The most important detail to understand is how the money moves. The subsidy is paid directly to the authorized consultant rather than being paid directly to you as a lump sum of cash. You should factor this into your planning, as you are coordinating the project through the service provider rather than managing the subsidy funds yourself.
How to apply
- Determine which digital transformation needs your business has, such as new IT security or a new online sales platform.
- Locate a consulting firm that is officially authorized to provide services under this specific scheme.
- Collaborate with your chosen consultant to plan the scope of your digital project.
- Follow the application procedures provided by your consultant or via the official portal: https://www.bmwi-go-digital.de