HRGE - Hannover Region Green Economy

The “Hannover Region Green Economy (HRGE)” grant program supports companies in developing or implementing sustainable innovations or optimizing internal processes. The goal is to accelerate the transition to a more environmentally and socially sustainable economy.

Eligible applicants:

• small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
• larger medium-sized enterprises
• Expert organizations in cooperation with companies. These include research institutions, freelancers, planning firms, startups, and newly established companies

Requirement: Headquarters or business location in the Hannover region.

Funding is available for projects that:

• develop or introduce more sustainable products, services, or processes
• strive for environmental and/or social improvements in internal processes and organizational workflows
• are active in the field of research and development (R&D)
• exceed the current state of the art in their respective fields

Funding amounts to up to 10,000 euros per project. The funding rate is a maximum of 50%.

The funds are intended in particular for:

• Technology and knowledge transfer
• Collaboration with:
• Research institutions
• Start-ups
• External experts
• Development and implementation of innovation projects

Implementation of internal projects to optimize business processes in a way that strengthens environmental, economic, and social sustainability.

The HRGE pursues several strategic goals:

• Promotion of sustainable innovations
• Improving resource efficiency and climate protection
• Securing and creating jobs
• Strengthening the Hannover region as a sustainable business location 

Companies benefit from:

• Financial support for innovation projects
• Access to external expertise and networks
• Preparation for larger funding programs (state, federal, EU)

Reduced development risks

It makes sense to submit an application if:

• An innovative project idea with a sustainability focus is available.
• Internal resources or expertise are lacking.
• Initial steps are needed to implement or evaluate the idea.

• The application is submitted online
• The project idea is submitted and reviewed
• Details are described in the official funding guidelines

Sustainability is key:
Funded projects should contribute to achieving the Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and bring about environmental and social improvements.

Under the HRGE funding guidelines, both collaborative projects and projects carried out by individual businesses may be implemented.

If collaboration is deemed appropriate, it may involve the following stakeholders:

• Universities
• research institutes
• Specialized service providers

The goal is effective knowledge and technology transfer.

The HRGE can serve as initial funding to:

• To develop projects
• Assess feasibility
• To prepare for follow-up funding at a higher level (e.g., EU programs)