Funding for social enterprises is scattered and hard to keep track of. The Funding Finder brings it together in one place: grants, loans, guarantees, equity, scholarships, prizes and free advisory services.
Filter by funding type, target group and phase, and find the programmes that fit your venture in just a few clicks. All programmes listed here are available in Berlin, either as a Berlin offer or as a nationwide programme open to Berlin organisations too. Use the „NaWi programmes“ checkbox to show only the offers from the ESF+ programme „nachhaltig wirken“.
We do our best to keep the information up to date, but we cannot guarantee that it is current or accurate. Deadlines and conditions change regularly, so it is always worth checking the relevant programme website before applying.
-
Aktion Mensch Funding
Germany's largest private funding organisation supports non-profit organisations with projects for inclusion, participation and accessibility. The micro-grant covers up to 5,000 euros in material and fee costs without requiring own funds, while larger project grants with significantly higher amounts are available through further programmes. Applications are submitted on a rolling basis via the digital application system.
up to €5,000 (micro-grant), higher amounts depending on the programmeDeadline: rollingGrantAssociation/gGmbHSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
AVGS Start-up Coaching
With the activation and placement voucher (AVGS, section 45 SGB III), the Federal Employment Agency covers the full cost of start-up coaching with an AZAV-certified provider. Content includes, among other things, the business plan, financial planning, marketing and preparation of the start-up subsidy application. Eligible are people receiving ALG I or citizen's benefit (Bürgergeld) or those at risk of unemployment.
up to 100% of coaching costsDeadline: rollingAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Solo self-employedPre-launchView details -
BBBsocial
Default guarantees specifically for public-benefit enterprises in Berlin, expressly including non-profit legal forms such as gGmbH and e.V. The guarantee bank secures up to 70% (in exceptional cases 80%) of a bank loan, up to a maximum of 2 million euros. This makes bank financing possible for start-up, working capital, investment and acquisition purposes that would otherwise fail due to a lack of collateral.
guarantee up to €2m, up to 70% of the loanDeadline: rollingGuaranteeLoanSocial enterpriseSocial startupAssociation/gGmbHCooperativeSolo self-employedLaunchGrowthView details -
BBBwelcome
Default guarantees for start-ups and projects by refugees and non-EU nationals in Berlin, for example for working capital and investment. The guarantee makes bank loans possible that would otherwise fail due to a lack of collateral.
guarantee up to €2m, up to 70% of the loanDeadline: rollingGuaranteeFounders (pre-launch)Solo self-employedSocial startupSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
Berlin Innovativ PLUS
A development loan for innovative, sustainable and creative Berlin-based companies, applied for through the applicant's own bank. It finances investments and working capital of up to 3 million euros; the IBB assumes a 70% indemnity towards the applicant's bank. Companies must meet one of the innovation, creative or sustainability criteria, which makes access easier for many social enterprises.
up to €3mDeadline: rollingLoanSocial enterpriseSocial startupCooperativeGrowthView details -
Berlin Kredit Transformation
Loan for investment and growth of Berlin SMEs, explicitly including social enterprises with market income. Sustainable projects receive a repayment discount of 2 to 7%. Applications go through your bank.
usually €100,000 to €10mDeadline: rollingLoanSocial enterpriseGrowthView details -
Berlin Start
Low-interest loan for start-ups, takeovers and young companies up to seven years old. The guarantee bank covers up to 70%, so little collateral is needed. Applications go through your bank.
€5,000 to €1.5mDeadline: rollingLoanGuaranteeFounders (pre-launch)Social startupSocial enterpriseSolo self-employedLaunchGrowthView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – Avant Now
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus: impact-tech start-ups addressing social and environmental challenges, with particular attention to diverse and majority women-led teams.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupSocial enterprisePre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – Berlin Innovation Agency
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus: climate and smart-city innovation via the ClimateX Hub (climate and sustainability technologies).
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupPre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – HTW Berlin
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. HTW's focus: knowledge- and technology-based ventures in GreenTech, Digital Technologies & AI and Impact Entrepreneurship.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: next round 23.11.2026 to 10.01.2027ScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupSocial enterprisePre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – Ignore Gravity / Grace Berlin Accelerator
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus: female entrepreneurship, exclusively for majority women-led teams (at least 51% women).
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupPre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – MotionLab.Berlin
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus: hardtech innovation, i.e. hardware, robotics, deep tech and manufacturing, with access to workshops and prototyping.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupPre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – Science & Startups
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Provider for science-based teams from FU, HU and TU Berlin; the thematic focus changes with each batch.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupSocial enterprisePre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – SIBB
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus: technology-oriented early-stage start-ups, including trustworthy AI, cyber-resilient technologies and software innovations.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupPre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – Startup Colors / Vision Health Pioneers
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus: health tech and digital health, with ideas validated in a clinical setting together with patients.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupPre-launchLaunchView details -
Berliner Startup Stipendium – WISTA / Adlershof Startup Lab
The Berliner Startup Stipendium supports early-stage founding teams with up to €2,500 per month (for up to 12 months), plus a workspace, coaching and mentoring. Focus in Adlershof: energy transition and energy efficiency, environmental and GreenTech, smart city & mobility, IoT, AI, IT security, social enterprises as well as Women in Tech & Science.
up to €2,500/month, max. 12 monthsDeadline: applications in batches, deadlines vary by providerScholarshipAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupSocial enterprisePre-launchLaunchView details -
Business Plan Competition Berlin-Brandenburg (BPW)
Competition for founders from all sectors with free seminars, workshops and written feedback from juries. The best concepts are awarded in three phases, with more than 50,000 euros in total prize money.
more than €50,000 in prize moneyDeadline: Phase 1: 10.11.2026, Phase 2: 16.02.2027, Phase 3: 27.04.2027PrizeAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Social startupPre-launchLaunchView details -
Cooperative Marketing for Public-Benefit Enterprises
Project by Civocracy in which eight to twelve social enterprises join forces for shared campaigns. They pool resources and communities behind one message on everyday topics and reach more people than they could alone.
Deadline: on requestNaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupGrowthView details -
EduConnect: Public-Benefit Entrepreneurship for Impactful Education
Networking programme by beWirken gGmbH for public-benefit enterprises in education. It brings together actors who usually work side by side, creates transparency and strengthens cooperation so that new forms of learning reach the education system.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupLaunchGrowthView details -
EqualStart Berlin – GründerinnenBONUS
One-off grant for companies founded or majority-owned by women. Applicants must have received GründungsBONUS Plus funding approved on or after 1 September 2025.
up to €10,000Deadline: applications until 31.10.2027GrantSocial startupSocial enterpriseLaunchView details -
EquiNet: Networks for a Diverse Ecosystem
Programme by BIWOC* Rising for a diverse and inclusive social entrepreneurship ecosystem. It focuses on marginalised founders, who receive intersectional DEI advice and access to networks that are otherwise hard to reach.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchView details -
ERP-Gründerkredit StartGeld (067)
A development loan for start-ups and young companies up to 5 years after launch, applied for through the applicant's own bank. Since December 2025, up to 200,000 euros in external financing is available, of which up to 80,000 euros may be used for working capital. The KfW assumes 80% of the risk towards the applicant's bank, making even ventures without substantial collateral financeable. Since February 2026, non-profit companies are eligible to apply again.
up to €200,000Deadline: rollingLoanSocial startupSocial enterpriseFounders (pre-launch)Solo self-employedCooperativeAssociation/gGmbHLaunchGrowthView details -
EXIST Business Start-up Grant
A scholarship for students, graduates and researchers interested in founding a company who want to realise an innovative, technology-oriented or knowledge-based business idea originating from a university. Depending on qualifications, it provides 1,000 to 3,000 euros per month for 12 months, plus material resources and coaching. The application is submitted via the university or research institution, and the company must not yet have been founded.
€1,000 to €3,000 per month plus material resources, 12 monthsDeadline: rollingScholarshipFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchView details -
FASE Impact Financing
FASE supports growth-ready social enterprises in their search for capital and connects them with suitable impact investors, from business angels and foundations to impact funds. Hybrid models such as mezzanine capital or convertible loans are also used, with typical funding rounds ranging between 100,000 and 3 million euros. A viable business model with demonstrable social impact is a prerequisite.
typically €100,000 to €3mDeadline: rollingEquityAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupGrowthView details -
Founders Bay Accelerator
Six-month accelerator for early-stage impact start-ups with a focus on rural regions. Participants receive 1:1 coaching, masterclasses and workspace in locations such as Rügen, Sylt or Wismar. The goal is pilot projects with established SMEs.
Deadline: applications for batch 10, starting January 2027NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchView details -
Funding Programmes of the German Foundation for Civic Engagement and Volunteering (DSEE)
The federal foundation supports non-profit organisations with changing programmes centred on volunteering, civic engagement and structural development. Since January 2026, the micro-grant programme has again been awarding up to 1,500 euros per project on a rolling basis (with a focus on structurally weak and rural regions), alongside larger thematic programmes. Applications are submitted via the foundation's online funding portal.
depending on the programme, e.g. up to €1,500 micro-grantDeadline: depends on programme, see funding portalGrantAssociation/gGmbHLaunchGrowthView details -
GenerationenWohnen Impuls – Living Sustainably Together: Multipliers for Intergenerational Housing Projects (Germany-wide)
Project by inGemeinschaft for intergenerational living. A digital matching platform connects older people with spare living space and young people looking for a home. It also offers advice and training for organisations that want to set up such housing projects.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupAssociation/gGmbHFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchView details -
Gründerinnenzentrale Berlin
Independent orientation and development advice for women who want to start a business or already have. It also offers mentoring, peer success teams and events such as the financing forum.
advice, costs vary by offerDeadline: rollingAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Solo self-employedPre-launchLaunchGrowthView details -
GründungsBONUS Plus
A start-up grant for innovative, sustainable, creative or social business models in Berlin. It funds 50% of the start-up costs (staff, investments, operating expenses, external services) up to a maximum of 50,000 euros. Companies based in Berlin that are no more than 18 months old are eligible to apply; commercially active social enterprises are expressly eligible. Since April 2026, there has additionally been the EqualStart Berlin / GründerinnenBONUS: companies founded predominantly by women receive a further 10,000 euros.
50% of costs, up to €50,000Deadline: rollingGrantSocial startupSocial enterpriseSolo self-employedLaunchView details -
Impact VC Fund for Social Entrepreneurs
Venture capital for Berlin start-ups that combine commercial success with a measurable contribution to social or environmental challenges, from pre-seed to Series A.
initial investment from approx. €200,000Deadline: rollingEquitySocial startupSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
INQA Coaching
Subsidised coaching for SMEs with fewer than 250 employees on digitalisation, HR, securing skilled workers and organisational development. A certified coach supports the process and involves the employees.
80% subsidy for up to 12 consulting daysDeadline: rollingAdvice & CoachingGrantSocial enterpriseAssociation/gGmbHCooperativeGrowthView details -
INVEST – Venture Capital Grant
Tax-free grant for private investors who buy shares in young innovative corporations or cooperatives. Start-ups can have their eligibility confirmed in advance, which makes it easier to attract business angels.
15% acquisition grant, max. €100,000 per personDeadline: rolling (guideline until 31.12.2026)EquityGrantSocial startupCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
Invest4Impact
Project by the German Impact Investing Association to build knowledge and transparency around impact investing. It offers market studies, case studies, training and a digital knowledge platform, including for social enterprises preparing for impact investment.
Deadline: rolling, until 11/2027NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseGrowthView details -
KfW Award Gründen
Annual KfW start-up competition with 35,000 euros in total prize money: 16 state winners, one national winner, an audience award and a special award for business succession. Companies headquartered in Germany that were founded or taken over in the last five years can apply, including social enterprises.
€35,000 total prize moneyDeadline: annually, 1 April to 1 JulyPrizeSocial startupSocial enterpriseCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
KfW IKU Investment Loan for Municipal and Social Enterprises (148)
A low-interest, long-term promotional loan for non-profit organisations and municipal enterprises investing in social infrastructure, such as nurseries, educational, care or cultural facilities. Up to 100% of eligible costs can be financed, including working capital; terms of up to 30 years are available. Non-profit status is evidenced by the tax office's exemption notice, and applications are made through the applicant's own bank.
up to 100% of investment costs, up to €50 million per projectDeadline: rollingLoanAssociation/gGmbHSocial enterpriseCooperativeGrowthView details -
Komm:Transform – Municipal Transformation for the Energy Transition
Programme by Endeva for clean-tech SMEs that want to work with municipalities and public utilities on the energy transition. Participants build skills for scaling and partnerships and are connected with energy suppliers, public administration and industry.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseGrowthView details -
LCoops Digital +
Advice and start-up support by Platform Coops eG for cooperatives and platform cooperatives. A "climate check-in" shows where organisations can become more climate-friendly.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingCooperativeSocial startupLaunchGrowthView details -
LOTTO-Stiftung Berlin
The foundation supports social, charitable, cultural, youth-oriented and environmental projects in Berlin with grants that can be considerable in size. Legal entities are eligible to apply provided their project is carried out in Berlin and is in Berlin's interest; institutional funding is also possible. Applications should be submitted around nine months before the project starts via the online application portal.
project-dependent, no fixed upper limitDeadline: rollingGrantAssociation/gGmbHSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
Microloan from the SME Fund
A loan of up to €50,000 for start-ups and smaller growth projects with a place of business in Berlin, without standard bank collateral. Social enterprises are eligible to apply provided they are at least 50% commercially active. The term is six years with one repayment-free year, and it can be combined with the GründungsBONUS Plus for innovative or sustainable business models.
up to €50,000Deadline: rollingLoanSocial startupSocial enterpriseSolo self-employedCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
Mikromezzaninfonds Deutschland
Silent partnerships of up to €150,000 strengthen the economic equity of small businesses and start-ups without the need for collateral or the surrender of voting rights. This improves creditworthiness and makes additional bank financing easier to obtain. Companies that provide vocational training, were founded out of unemployment, or are run by women or people with a migration background are among those specifically addressed.
silent partnership up to €150,000Deadline: rollingEquitySocial startupSocial enterpriseSolo self-employedCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
Nachhaltig wirken (ESF Plus)
The largest federal programme for public-benefit enterprises. It does not fund individual companies but project providers such as accelerators, impact hubs and universities that offer free advice, training and networking. New project applications are no longer possible, but the funded projects run until mid-2029 at the latest.
free advisory and qualification servicesDeadline: project offers run until 06/2029 at the latestAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupAssociation/gGmbHCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
Nachhaltig Wirken Akademie
A free academy for public-benefit enterprises as part of the Nachhaltig wirken funding programme. It offers workshops and short advisory sessions on climate protection and social innovation, peer-to-peer learning, networking events and a digital learning platform with tools and best practices. The offers are accessible nationwide and completely free of charge.
free continuing-education and networking servicesDeadline: rollingNaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupAssociation/gGmbHCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
NaWi – Climate Action Accelerator
Three-month hybrid accelerator by Impact Hub Berlin for start-ups with climate solutions. Participants receive coaching, mentoring and access to the Impact Hub network.
Deadline: applications currently closedNaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupLaunchGrowthView details -
NaWi – Climate Action Ecosystem
Open programme by Impact Hub Berlin for sustainable entrepreneurship: events, workshops, trend reports and a digital learning platform. A good way to build knowledge and connect with the climate community.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
Next Economy Award
An award for start-ups driving social and ecological change with innovative business models, presented as part of the German Sustainability Award. Companies founded in Germany that are no more than five years old are eligible; applying via an online questionnaire is free of charge. Finalists and winners benefit from high visibility and access to Germany's largest sustainability network.
no prize money; value: finalist status, visibility, network access (Germany's largest sustainability network)Deadline: annual, applications usually close end of JunePrizeSocial startupSocial enterpriseCooperativeLaunchGrowthView details -
nxt level accelerator
Accelerator by M&M Consultants for public-benefit enterprises. Five stages take participants from business plan and start-up advice to growth, sales and fundraising. The team consists of experienced founders and brings contacts to investors, banks and funders.
free of chargeDeadline: applications per batch, see websiteNaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupSocial enterpriseFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchGrowthView details -
Pre-Start-up Coaching (Coaching vor der Gründung)
Free coaching for prospective founders living in Berlin, especially people who are currently unemployed. After an orientation meeting and an assessment, participants receive up to 30 hours of individual coaching. The business must not be registered yet. The programme is in German.
free, up to 30 hours of coachingDeadline: rollingAdvice & CoachingFounders (pre-launch)Solo self-employedPre-launchView details -
Pro FIT Project Financing
Berlin's central programme for promoting research, innovation and technology across the entire innovation process, from development to market launch. Since January 2026, non-repayable grants of up to €500,000 and interest-reduced loans of up to €1 million have been available. It is suitable for technology-oriented social enterprises with a registered office or place of business in Berlin that are developing innovative products or services.
grants up to €500,000, loans up to €1 millionDeadline: rollingGrantLoanSocial startupSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
re:connect – Hybrid incubator for public-benefit start-ups and companies
Incubator by fiveP eG for start-ups and SMEs that want to operate in a more regenerative and public-benefit oriented way. It offers in-person and online workshops, individual coaching and process support. The second cohort has been running since September 2026; joining is possible on request.
Deadline: join on request, until 11/2027NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupSocial enterpriseLaunchGrowthView details -
Ready for Impact-Linked Finance: Better Terms for Better Impact
Programme by the Social Finance Academy of Roots of Impact for social enterprises that want to measure and manage their impact better. Through analysis, online bootcamps and coaching they get ready for impact-oriented financing such as impact-linked finance, where proven impact leads to better terms.
free of chargeDeadline: next cohort from 11/2026NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupGrowthView details -
Social Enterprises in Succession (Sozialunternehmen in Nachfolge)
Free advice for public-benefit enterprises looking for a successor and for people who want to take over a business. It also offers online formats and workshops on the handover.
free of chargeDeadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchGrowthView details -
SOGUT 2.0 – Re-use strengthens the circular economy
Free support by Re-Use Deutschland for second-hand businesses and used goods stores. Experts advise on sales space, marketing, staff and finances and train managers. The goal is economically stable businesses that avoid waste.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseGrowthView details -
Start-up Advice Social Economy Berlin (GrüBe)
Free, subsidised start-up and development advice for social enterprises in Berlin. A network of experienced advisory organisations provides support with the business model, legal form, financing and impact. The process begins with a short initial conversation with the SEB team.
free advisoryDeadline: rollingAdvice & CoachingSocial startupSocial enterpriseAssociation/gGmbHCooperativeFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchGrowthView details -
Start-up Subsidy (Gründungszuschuss)
Support for starting full-time self-employment while receiving unemployment benefit I. During the first 6 months, the previous unemployment benefit plus 300 euros per month is paid for social security, after which a further 9 months at 300 euros per month is possible. The requirements are a remaining ALG I entitlement of at least 150 days and an expert assessment of the business plan.
ALG I plus €300 per month (6 months), then €300 per month (9 months)Deadline: rollingGrantFounders (pre-launch)Solo self-employedPre-launchLaunchView details -
Startnext SONAR
A growth programme for social innovations and public-benefit enterprises on the Startnext crowdfunding platform, funded as part of Nachhaltig wirken. SONAR projects receive free advice, coaching and greater visibility for their crowdfunding campaign. Entry is via a short eligibility check and a free monthly initial consultation.
funding via the crowd; programme participation free of chargeDeadline: rollingNaWi-fundedCrowdfundingAdvice & CoachingSocial startupSocial enterpriseAssociation/gGmbHCooperativeFounders (pre-launch)LaunchGrowthView details -
startsocial Advisory Scholarships
A nationwide competition for social initiatives: 100 projects receive a four-month advisory scholarship with two experienced coaches from the business world, covering areas such as financing, public relations and organisation. Individuals, teams and organisations from the idea stage through to established initiatives are eligible, provided volunteers are involved. Award-winning initiatives also receive prize money.
four-month advisory scholarship; prize money of €5,000 for the best initiativesDeadline: next application phase expected May to July 2027Advice & CoachingPrizeAssociation/gGmbHSocial startupFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchGrowthView details -
State Subsidy for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
Grant for Berlin SMEs that hire long-term unemployed people, recipients of citizen's benefit or marginally employed people in jobs subject to social insurance. A good fit for social enterprises that help people into work.
€12,400 to €17,000 per permanent positionDeadline: rollingGrantSocial enterpriseSocial startupGrowthView details -
Strengthening the Social and Solidarity Economy – through Networking and Transfer
Programme by Verbund Kooperatives Wirtschaften for public-benefit enterprises. Workshops, short consultations and peer learning cover practical examples and social-ecological tools for solidarity-based business models.
Deadline: rolling, until 07/2028NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseCooperativeGrowthView details -
Train4Impact
Webinars, workshops and coaching by the Borderstep Institute for public-benefit start-up projects. Participants learn to set impact goals, measure their impact and quantify their climate protection potential, for example as an argument for investors.
Deadline: participation until 11/2026NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial startupFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchView details -
Wandel wirksam gestalten (Wawi)
Support programme by swapwork for organisations that want to become more public-benefit oriented and grow their impact. It combines workshops on the Economy for the Common Good, support with the Common Good Balance Sheet and organisational development. Participation is 85% funded, with an own contribution of 2,800 euros.
85% funded, €2,800 own contributionDeadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupAssociation/gGmbHGrowthView details -
Waves of Change – Advice on Sustainable Water and Energy Solutions for Public-Benefit Enterprises
Advice and training by Boreal Light for public-benefit enterprises on sustainable water and energy solutions, such as solar-powered water treatment. Participants develop practical approaches to implement their projects in a resource-efficient way.
Deadline: rolling, until 05/2027NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseGrowthView details -
Wirkungsbooster Insights
Online series by Social Impact gGmbH on impact measurement: 90-minute insights with impact managers from social enterprises and NGOs, plus small-group practice sessions to work on your own indicators and measurement plans.
Deadline: rolling (ESF+ 'nachhaltig wirken')NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupAssociation/gGmbHGrowthView details -
Zukunftsorte Lab
Learning and advice platform by Netzwerk Zukunftsorte for anyone who wants to create spaces for public-benefit enterprises in rural and structurally weak regions, for example in vacant buildings. The platform lets you book offers and find suitable experts.
Deadline: rolling, until 11/2027NaWi-fundedAdvice & CoachingSocial enterpriseSocial startupFounders (pre-launch)Pre-launchLaunchGrowthView details
No programme matches this selection. Reset individual filters or contact us, we are happy to help.
Looking for more funding? The Germany-wide Gründerplattform: Finanzieren & Fördern lists further financing and funding options beyond Berlin.