SEO with Government Funding

Operational SEO with Government Funding (Digital Jetzt 2023)

The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) launched the “Digital Jetzt” program to support the digitization of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs). This funding program offers exceptionally attractive grants with relatively flexible criteria for what qualifies as eligible. For SMEs with up to 499 employees, it’s worth exploring if digital projects can be co-financed under this initiative. Larger enterprises are not eligible.

What Can Be Funded?

Module 1: Investments in Digital Technologies

This module covers investments in digital technologies and the associated processes and changes within the company. It includes hardware and software that enhance internal and external networking, such as data-driven business models. This explicitly includes eCommerce and related search engine optimization (SEO), as well as the development of online shops, websites, and more.

Key points:

• SEO must be operational and not purely advisory.
• For software, it should not merely be off-the-shelf purchases but involve customization or new development.

For instance, if you’re planning to transition to a new content management system (CMS) with SEO considerations, the development of a new WordPress website would qualify for funding. However, this must be completed by the end of 2023, as future extensions of such generous rules are uncertain.

Module 2: Employee Qualification

This module supports investments in training and upskilling employees. This includes:

• Training programs for content managers, in-house SEOs, or team workshops.
• Virtual workshops via tools like Skype or Teams.

Comprehensive SEO consulting with a training component is eligible for funding.

Funding Details

• Maximum grant per company: €50,000
• For investments in value chains/networks: up to €100,000
• Minimum grant amounts:
  • €17,000 for Module 1 or combined Modules 1 & 2
  • €3,000 for Module 2

Tip: Secure High Funding in 2023!

The grant amount is proportional to the company’s investment costs and varies by company size:

Number of Employees	Funding Rate (% of Costs)
Up to 50 employees	Up to 40%
Up to 250 employees	Up to 35%
Up to 499 employees	Up to 30%

Smaller companies benefit from a higher percentage grant.

How to Apply for Funding

• Initial Consultation: Contact us to assess your eligibility.
• Process Overview: We’ll guide you through the next steps.

Important: The grant is disbursed only after project completion, so full pre-financing of the budget is required.

Final Note

Submit your application for Digital Jetzt funding before the end of 2023, as the program is unlikely to be extended!

We look forward to your inquiry.