IBB Berlin Start – Low-Interest Loan for Berlin
A favorable startup loan program in Berlin, for startups and SMEs, with up to €1.5 million and 80 % guarantee support.
Target group
Startups, SMEs
Deadline
Year-around
Location
State Berlin
Table of contents
IBB Berlin Start is a public development loan designed to support startups and SMEs in Berlin with early-stage financing. While it involves repayment, it is considered part of non-dilutive funding, as it allows companies to access capital without giving up equity.
Are you eligible?
Berlin Start is aimed at:
Start-ups and small businesses (SMEs) with a business address in Berlin.
Founders and entrepreneurs who have been operating for less than seven years.
Individuals who require external financing (debt) for their business activities.
Projects that are expected to be economically viable and demonstrate solid repayment capability.
Businesses with no negative SCHUFA entries or outstanding tax/social insurance liabilities.
What is Berlin Start?
Berlin Start is a publicly subsidized loan program provided by IBB (Investitionsbank Berlin), designed to support start-ups and entrepreneurs in their early stages with attractive loan conditions.
Funding Amount
Minimum: €25,000
Maximum: €1,500,000
Disbursement is subject to business plan and creditworthiness
Funding Structure
100% debt-based financing
No equity (non-repayable grant) included
Personal collateral or guarantees may be required
Duration and Interest
Repayment term: up to 10 years
Interest-only phase: up to 2 years
Interest rate: fixed (as of last update approx. 3.2%–5.3%, depending on rating)
Important
Follow-up financing is easy to apply for, if your business grows or needs more capital, additional applications under the Berlin Start program are possible.
Terms & Conditions
Loan funds can be used for:
Investments (equipment, machines, facilities)
Operating costs (wages, marketing, rent, etc.)
Working capital and liquidity
Disbursement is via your main bank (Hausbankprinzip)
Requires a sound business and financial plan
The IBB checks eligibility, but the loan is ultimately granted in cooperation with your bank
When is the deadline?
Year-round. Applications are accepted continuously, there is no deadline.
How does the application work?
Preparation:
- Create a business plan with financial projections
- Check your personal and company creditworthiness
Hausbank process:
- Choose a commercial bank as your financial intermediary
- Submit your application via your bank (not directly to IBB)
- The Hausbank evaluates your business plan and financial plan. If approved, they forward it to IBB.
IBB assessment:
- The IBB evaluates your business plan and financial plan. If approved, they forward the offer back to your bank
Approval & payout:
- Once approved, the loan is paid out via your bank
- Loan repayment begins after the grace period
You need support?
Would you like to learn more about how we can increase your companies chances of success with this funding program?
FAQs
What our clients often ask before they get started.
Can I combine IBB Berlin Start with grants or venture capital?
Yes, IBB Berlin Start can be combined with grants or venture capital financing. However, the total funding package must comply with EU de minimis regulations and applicable state aid rules.
Do I need collateral or personal guarantees for IBB Berlin Start?
Depending on the company’s credit rating, collateral or personal guarantees may be required. In most cases, guarantees are provided through partner banks or public guarantee schemes.
Is the interest rate fixed or variable?
The interest rate under IBB Berlin Start is fixed for the entire loan term and is determined based on the borrower’s risk category at the time of approval.
What can the IBB Berlin Start loan be used for?
IBB Berlin Start can be used to finance business setup, growth investments, working capital, and operational expenses related to establishing or expanding a company in Berlin.
Who is eligible for IBB Berlin Start?
IBB Berlin Start is designed for startups, founders, and small and medium-sized enterprises based in Berlin that require public loan financing for business development or expansion.
Still have questions?
