Application instructions

  2. futureSAX - Innovation platform of the Free State of Saxony
  4. Reasons
  6. Start-up funding InnoStartBonus
  8. Application instructions

Prepair to launch!

Great that you want to take off with the InnoStartBonus and your business idea!

Please note the following information when completing the application form:

  • The application deadline is September 15, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.!
  • Before you begin, please review the funding guidelines for the InnoStartBonus startup grant and the FAQs, and contact the team (innostartbonus@futuresax.de) if you have any questions.
  • Please note that proposals focusing on consulting or coaching services are ineligible for funding.
  • Please mark the following dates in your calendar as soon as you submit your application, as they cannot be rescheduled!
    • Evaluation Round 2 on October 28–29, 2026; in-person session in Dresden
  • Every 10 minutes and when you move to the next step of the form, your information is automatically saved, and you can continue working on your application during the application period.
  • You can access applications that are in progress or have been completed via your “My futureSAX” area.
  • For technical reasons, you will be automatically logged out of the system after a prolonged period of inactivity . Your most recently saved progress will generally be preserved.
    We nevertheless recommend that you actively close the application form if you interrupt your work for an extended period or reload it after a long break.
  • Applications that have been submitted cannot be edited.

Our tip:

  • Use the linked PDF to get an overview of the required information on the application form.
  • Take your time to prepare your information
  • and then enter them into the online application form.

Only submissions via the online application form will be accepted!

Notes on the further formal procedure

The next meetings of the expert panel will take place as follows:

  • 16th Regular Call for Proposals:
    • Evaluation Round 2: October 28–29, 2026, in-person session in Dresden, 7-minute pitch & 7-minute Q&A; the date and exact time will be communicated to you after successful completion of Evaluation Round 1 (application review by a jury)
    • Please note that if you’re forming a team, both applicants must attend the meeting!

If the expert committee votes in favor of funding eligibility and you subsequently submit an application to the Sächsische Aufbaubank , the following documents must be provided:

  • Copy of ID card or passport with certificate of residence
  • (if applicable) Documentation for individuals who are not EU citizens (residence permit, registration confirmation, work permit, etc.)
  • The work permit must be valid at least until the end of the funding period.
  • Copy of the birth certificate(s) of the child(ren) for whom child support is required, if claiming the child bonus
  • If starting a business as a side business, additionally: business registration or notification to the tax office as supporting documentation when submitting the application