Funding for R&D: 5 common mistakes in the application

Mistake 5: The Funding Is Not Used Strategically

Many companies view funding as a one-time opportunity. However, experts recommend that it should rather be a fixed component of the innovation and financing strategy. An approved funding project does not exclude further funding. On the contrary, companies can even have multiple research, development, or investment projects funded simultaneously, as long as the projects are clearly separated from one another. Only double funding of the same project is excluded. In practice, however, only individual projects are often reviewed for funding options, leaving potential in other company areas untapped. Yet, new fundable projects continuously arise—from research and development projects to digitalization measures to investments in sustainability, energy efficiency, or new production methods. Particularly innovative companies should therefore see funding not as an exception but as an integral part of their corporate planning. Those who regularly review funding opportunities and integrate them into project planning early on create additional financial flexibility, strengthen innovation capabilities, and reduce the need for equity for future investments. The question should not be whether a project is eligible for funding but which projects within the company are eligible for funding. This requires clear internal processes. Additionally, funding applications should not be treated as an afterthought but should follow fixed responsibilities, standardized procedures, and regular reviews of new funding potentials.

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Date: 08.12.2025

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This is How to Do It Right!

Mistake 5: The Funding Is Not Used Strategically

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