Digital projects are well funded – if the degree of innovation is documented

For software, platforms and digital media there are more programmes than in almost any other industry. But they all hang on one question: is this a genuine innovation or a proven business model in digital form? Both are eligible, just through different routes. Anyone who classifies themselves wrongly applies for programmes they will never get – and misses the ones they would get straight away.

For software, platforms and digital media there are more programmes than in almost any other industry. But they all hang on one question: is this a genuine innovation or a proven business model in digital form?

What gets clarified first

1

How innovative is your project really?

We distinguish between technological novelty with a research share, digital innovation without research, and a proven model. That classification decides which programmes are open to you at all.

We distinguish between technological novelty with a research share, digital innovation without research, and a proven model.

2

Is there a university or research partner?

Many innovation programmes require a partner. If one is missing, that is a named gap with a time requirement – not an exclusion.

Many innovation programmes require a partner.

3

Have development contracts already been awarded?

A signed development contract counts as a project start. After that, innovation funding is permanently gone for this project.

A signed development contract counts as a project start.

Which types of funding apply here

The method in detail
  • GrantInnovation and digitalisation programmes fund development, prototypes and market launch directly.
  • Coaching & adviceSubsidised innovation and technology consulting – often the fastest first match.
  • CompetitionCreative industry and digital prizes are common here and are treated as equals.

Typical funding purposes

  • Software development
  • Prototype & MVP
  • Research & development
  • Digitalisation
  • Market entry
  • Intellectual property

Who funds here

  • National innovation agencies
  • Digitalisation programmes of canton and region
  • EU programmes for research and innovation
  • Creative industry funds and media funding

Official sources: Innosuisse, Cantonal business development, Guarantee cooperatives, SECO, Fedlex, Swiss foundations

Which package fits

Find funding

The free check tells you whether your project belongs on the innovation track or the digitalisation track. For programme names, application windows and the question of what you are still missing, you need Find funding.

The free check tells you whether your project belongs on the innovation track or the digitalisation track. For programme names, application windows and the question of what you are still missing, you need Find funding.

Pricing
FAQ

Frequent questions from the industry

Yes. For proven business models in digital form, digitalisation and advisory programmes apply instead of research funding. The report classifies your project honestly and shows the right track.

Only with a realistic strategic fit. EU programmes run over long periods with heavy competition. The report only recommends them in that case and otherwise says openly why not.

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Find the funding

Between your idea and your own company there is often nothing but money that is already waiting for you. The free check shows you which – and what you must not sign until then.

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