aws Preseed - Deep Tech

aws Preseed - Deep Tech supports entrepreneurial pre-start-up and early-stage start-up projects based on applied research and development aimed at commercial realization through an initial proof of concept or prototype. Eligible projects must demonstrate a significant technological and scientific challenge, provide a substantial technology leap beyond incremental innovation, and possess the potential to build an international competitive advantage protected by intellectual property. The program offers non-repayable grants of up to €267,000 (covering up to 80% of eligible costs), which can increase to up to €300,000 (covering up to 90% of eligible costs) if a gender bonus applies where women hold more than 25% of company shares. The target group includes natural persons and microenterprises in the pre-foundation phase or up to six months after commercial registration. Along with funding distributed in milestone tranches over one to two years, recipients receive sector-specific consulting, intellectual property protection advice, and coaching.

Applications must be submitted online via the aws Fördermanager portal with required identification documents and team CVs. Complete applications undergo formal, content, and economic evaluation, followed by an ethics review (for life science projects) and a pitch before an external jury.