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The Research Bonus

We want ideas to not only be developed in Germany, but to be turned into new products, processes and services here in Germany, too. The Federal Government's High-Tech Strategy has the aim of strengthening the willingness and ability of universities and research institutions to cooperate with the private sector. The research bonus, which consists of the Research Bonus for public research institutions and the new Research Bonus Two for non-profit research institutions, sends out a clear signal that cooperation pays off, especially cooperation with small and medium-sized enterprises.

The objective

The aim of the research bonus is to mobilize additional potential for broad cooperation with industry, particularly with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). A bonus is a particularly good way of giving higher education and research institutions (and the researchers who work in them) a specific incentive to become more involved in research subjects that are relevant to industry at an earlier stage. As a result, the scientific community can make a stronger contribution to ensuring that the results of research and development (R&D) are translated into innovations quickly.

A simple principle

An application for a Research Bonus can be submitted for every R&D contract with a volume of over €10,000 that is awarded to a company with up to 1,000 employees. The amount of the bonus is 25% of the contract volume (with a limit of €100,000 per R&D contract).

Institutions of higher education, research institutions and individual researchers (through their institutions) are eligible to submit applications.

What can the research bonus be used for?

The bonus can be used for other projects in all areas of research and development, with the aim of strengthening the transfer of knowledge and technology. For example, the funds can be used for new R&D projects, the validation of R&D results, feasibility studies, technology transfer projects, or even continuing training measures, staff exchanges, trade fairs and public relations work. 

Application in just three steps

1. Notification of the project management agency that an R&D contract has been concluded with an SME.
2. Submission of an application for the research bonus within six months of completion of the R&D contract (including payment). It is possible to pool several notifications in one application.
3. Payment of bonus in one instalment at the start of the project for which the bonus has been requested.

Applications can be made continuously until 30 September 2009.

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  The research bonus for public research

  If you work for a public or state-recognized institution of higher education or a research institution which is co-financed by the Federal Government and the Länder you can apply for a research bonus for collaborations with industry.
  more (URL: http://www.hightech-strategie.de/en/520.php)
   
  
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  Research Bonus Two for non-profit research institutions

  If you work for a legally independent, non-profit, non-university research institution which is not co-financed by the Federal Government and the Länder, you can apply for the Research Bonus Two for cooperation with industry.
  more (URL: http://www.hightech-strategie.de/en/523.php)