Public Loan Programs for Innovation-Focused Companies
Explore government-backed loan options with low interest, flexible terms and no equity dilution ideal for startups and SMEs in Germany and the EU.
Why Public Loans Matter
Public development loans are also part of non-dilutive funding, but follow a fundamentally different logic than grants. Instead of competitive selection, they are typically tied to financial viability, repayment capacity, and risk allocation.
For startups and SMEs, these loans often provide access to capital on terms that are significantly more favorable than commercial financing, including lower interest rates, extended repayment periods, and, in some cases, partial guarantees or interest subsidies from public development banks.
Used correctly, public loans can complement grants or replace equity financing in phases where cash flow predictability and downside risk management are critical.
Featured Loans
Berlin Start
Loans up to €1.5 million with 100% payout and no equity required. Ideal for new businesses, takeovers, or startups up to 7 years old.
ERP-Gründerkredit – StartGeld
Loans up to €200,000 with no minimum or equity required. Ideal for startups financing equipment, working capital, or buying a business.
ERP-Förderkredit Gründung und Nachfolge
Loans up to €500,000 for founders, successors, and young businesses under 5 years. Terms: up to 15 years with optional grace periods and fixed interest for up to 10 years.
How We Support
What you get with NDF’s loan application support.
Eligibility Check
We review the selected loan and validate your eligibility before moving forward.
Structuring
We clarify funding needs, eligible costs and loan setup tailored to your financials and the bank’s requirements.
Document Preparation
We prepare everything your bank or funding portal requires, from business plan and financials to investment overview and project justification.
Bank Coordination
We coordinate with your financing partner or bank and ensure a smooth communication and handover process.
FAQs
What our clients often ask before they get started.
How are grants different from loans or investor funding?
Grants are non-repayable and don’t require equity. You keep control and reduce your financing risk.
Which companies can apply?
We work with registered companies in Germany and the EU , mostly startups and innovation-driven SMEs. Some programs are pre-seed friendly.
Can you help me apply for a specific loan?
Yes. If you already know which program you want, we can start with the application phase directly.
What if I have no idea where to start?
Then we recommend our funding strategy solution were we analyze the best fitting programs for you.
