Promoting Security - Protecting Digitalization

Advancing digitalization presents new challenges for companies and public institutions in the area of IT security. Cyberattacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making investments in cybersecurity technologies and measures essential. According to a study commissioned by the digital industry association Bitkom, the cost of cyberattacks in Germany is projected to reach approximately 289.2 billion euros by 2025.

To strengthen digital security, there are numerous funding opportunities available for innovative projects and security solutions. The various funding programs have different objectives and target audiences. Funding is available at the EU, federal, and state levels. In this overview, we aim to provide you with an overview of the most important programs for Bavarian companies and institutions. Due to the wide variety of funding options, this compilation does not claim to be exhaustive.

The Bayern Innovativ funding advisors and other agencies are happy to provide you with specific guidance.

The development of new security solutions is supported by special funding programs. Universities, research institutes, and companies can apply for public funding for innovative projects. Currently, there is particularly high demand for concepts aimed at preventing cyberattacks, secure cloud solutions, and AI-based security systems.

Funding at the Bavarian State Level

• As part of the R&D Program for Information and Communication Technology, the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development, and Energy (StMWi) promotes application-oriented, technological innovations in the field of IT security across a wide range of application domains. For more information, see the announcement titled “Cybersecurity.”

Bayern Innovativ supports entry into this funding program through an annual matchmaking event.

Federal Funding

• The “Digital. Secure. Sovereign” research program of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) is the German federal government’s framework program for excellence in IT security research . For more information, see the “Digital. Secure. Sovereign” research framework program.
  

Funding at the EU Level

• The European funding program Horizon Europe is the European Commission’s largest research and innovation framework program, with a total budget of approximately 95.5 billion euros and a duration of seven years (2021–2027).
  The National Coordination Center for Cybersecurity (NKCS) can advise you on the multifaceted funding opportunities available through NKCS – Horizon Europe
  
• Cybersecurity also plays a central role in the military sector. The European Defense Fund (EDF), with a budget of approximately 8 billion euros, aims to strengthen the European defense industry. Individual calls for proposals also include cybersecurity aspects. EDF homepage

A number of funding agencies provide direct support to companies in establishing and expanding innovative and secure digitalization projects.

Funding at the Bavarian State Level

• Through the “Digitalbonus Bayern” funding program, the StMWi primarily supports smaller companies in their digital transformation. Under funding category 2.2, funding is available for both the implementation and improvement of IT security. Detailed information about the program can be found at Digitalbonus Bayern.
  

Federal Funding

• Through the “IT Security in Business” initiative, the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) supports companies in improving their IT security. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular are made aware of the issue and supported in raising their IT security levels through concrete assistance programs. IT Security in Business
  
• KfW Development Bank offers extensive support if you are investing in innovation and digitalization to make your business ready for the future
  KfW Loan for Digitalization
  

Funding at the EU Level

• The “Digital Europe” (DEP) program aims to drive forward the digital transformation in Europe. To achieve these goals, the “Digital Europe” program has allocated a total of 7.6 billion in investments. NKCS is happy to advise you on submitting applications NKCS – Digital Europe

“StartUpSecure” is the BMFTR’s flagship support initiative for aspiring entrepreneurs and startups. In collaboration with the three centers of excellence for IT security research—CISPA in Saarbrücken, ATHENE in Darmstadt, and KASTEL in Karlsruhe—startups receive extensive support in bringing their ideas to life.

Information about the program

Cybersecurity is a key issue for Germany's digital future. Thanks to numerous funding programs, companies, research institutions, and organizations can make targeted investments in IT security projects. The combination of financial support and expert advice helps minimize security risks and ensure long-term competitiveness.