Go-to-Market Voucher: up to €35,000 for your prototype

Do you have an idea for a digital product and need external expertise to turn it into a prototype? The State of NRW and the EU cover up to 70% of your costs.

What is funded

The Go-to-Market Voucher (ERDF/JTF program NRW 2021–2027) funds the development of a prototype for a digital product, with up to €50,000 of eligible expenses and a funding rate of 70%. That means a maximum grant of €35,000, non-repayable.

Eligible costs include:

  • Software development, hardware development, product design, UI/UX
  • Business model development, market and target group analyses
  • Marketing and sales strategy
  • Coaching and consulting services during implementation

Who can apply

  • Non-listed micro-enterprises
  • Founded no more than 3 years ago
  • Registered office in North Rhine-Westphalia

Why most applications fail

Not because of the idea, but because of the application and the lack of coaching during implementation. Coaching is a mandatory part of the funding: without an accompanying coach and industry mentor there is no voucher.

What Innovation Club DACH takes on

Through our partner network of vetted advisors we guide you through the entire process:

  • Application — advice on eligibility and application via the EFRE.NRW portal
  • Coaching during the prototype phase — the funded, mandatory part of the measure
  • Development partners — access to vetted partners for software, hardware and product design

Deadline

Applications are processed on a rolling basis — submission deadline: October 31, 2026.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the Go-to-Market Voucher

How high is the grant?
Up to €35,000. This corresponds to a funding rate of 70% on up to €50,000 of eligible expenses. The grant is non-repayable.

Who can apply?
Non-listed micro-enterprises based in North Rhine-Westphalia that were founded no more than three years ago.

What is funded?
The development of a prototype for a digital product, for example software and hardware development, product design, market analyses as well as coaching and consulting during implementation.

Until when can I submit the application?
Applications are processed on a rolling basis; the submission deadline is October 31, 2026.

Contact

Consulting for the Go-to-Market Voucher

Book a free initial consultation

Request consulting: send us a message and we will get back to you

More programs can be found in the funding programs overview.