EN 
DE 
UK In Germany, there are various funding programs available to founders with a migration background to provide financial support for their self-employment. These programs offer a range of financial assistance, from grants to loans, provided the founders have the appropriate residence permit.
1. Start-up grant
The Federal Employment Agency's start-up grant is a non-repayable grant that supports the unemployed in the initial phase of self-employment. The monthly payments, depending on the level of entitlement to unemployment benefit 1, extend over a maximum of 15 months. Applicants must, among other things, demonstrate professional and personal suitability and submit a verified business plan.
2. Entry fee
The entry-level allowance, a social benefit from the job center, is available to citizens' benefit recipients who plan to become self-employed full-time for at least 15 hours per week. This subsidy is paid in addition to the monthly citizen's allowance for up to 24 months. The amount depends on individual factors, and the application must be submitted to the responsible job center before you start self-employment.
3. ERP start-up loan start-up money
The ERP start-up loan Startgeld grants a loan of up to EUR 125,000 for investments and working capital. Repayment-free start-up years are possible and proof of equity is not required. The application is submitted via the house bank to KfW. Founders with a temporary residence permit could consider alternatives through their bank or through loans from Family & Friends.
4. Advisory program for the economy of North Rhine-Westphalia (BPW)
The BPW in North Rhine-Westphalia supports people aged 18 and over in setting up or taking over companies. Special advice is provided for 1st generation migrants, as well as for people with disabilities. Digital application makes the process easier and enables faster processing.
These diverse funding opportunities offer founders with a migrant background the financial basis to successfully shape their path to self-employment.
If you come from another country and want to become self-employed in Germany, there are a few important things to consider:
Plan your start-up carefully with a well-thought-out business model and a convincing business plan. This not only serves as the basis for government funding, but also for your residence permit.
Check your German language skills and, if necessary, attend a language course to optimally prepare for business requirements.
Make sure that your professional training is recognized in Germany so that you can identify potential hurdles early on.
Find out about mandatory registrations, for example with chambers of crafts or chambers of industry and commerce, as well as necessary permits, such as the requirement to be a master craftsman, and applicable regulations, such as health regulations from the health authority, that are relevant to your start-up project.
The most important requirement for setting up your business in Germany is checking whether you need a residence permit. If this is the case, submit an application for a residence permit for the purpose of conducting an independent business to the responsible German diplomatic mission.
With these steps nothing will stand in the way of your success in Germany. Start planning your self-employment today! We at the New Work Association support you every step of the way.
