Austria FFG General Programme

Program Overview

The FFG General Programme (Basisprogramm) is Austria's flagship R&D funding program for startups and companies. Operated by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG), it provides substantial equity-free funding for innovative projects without requiring founders to give up company shares.

Funding Amount

Maximum funding: Up to €3 million

Startup coverage: Up to 70% of eligible project costs

Standard coverage: Up to 50% of eligible project costs

Structure: Equity-free public funding

Eligibility Requirements

Project type: Innovative idea with clear implementation plan

Company type: Austrian companies and startups

Application timing: Rolling applications (any time)

Innovation requirement: Must demonstrate innovation and R&D

Program Scale

FFG is the largest provider of startup funding in Austria

Annual investment: Over €100 million in new ideas

Support: Industry-related research and development

Application Process

Step 1: Develop innovative R&D project with clear plan

Step 2: Prepare project proposal and budget

Step 3: Submit application online (rolling applications)

Step 4: Undergo FFG evaluation and review

Step 5: Receive funding decision and begin project

Key Advantages

No equity required: Keep 100% ownership

Substantial funding: Up to €3M available

Startup-friendly: 70% coverage for young companies

Rolling applications: Apply anytime

Largest provider: FFG's flagship program

Related FFG Programs

Projekt.Start: Preparation funding to evaluate project potential before application

Markt.Start: Up to €250,000 loans for market launch of FFG-funded R&D

Impact Innovation: Up to €75,000 (50% costs) for new products/services

2026 Focus Areas

Soil Deal for Europe Mission

Supporting Cancer Mission implementation

Restore our Ocean and Waters Mission

General industry-related R&D across all sectors

Contact Information

Organization: FFG (Österreichische Forschungsförderungsgesellschaft)

Website: www.ffg.at/en

Program information: www.ffg.at/en/programme/general-programme

Funding overview: www.ffg.at/en/fundings