There are numerous subsidy programmes for restaurateurs that subsidise investments in modern technology, energy efficiency and digitalisation. We show you which subsidies are available and how you can apply for them.

Overview: Subsidies for the Gastronomy Sector

Restaurateurs can benefit from various funding sources. The main areas are:

Energy Efficiency: Grants for energy-saving equipment and renovation
Digitalisation: Support for POS systems, online presence, software
Start-ups: Start-up capital and low-interest loans for founders
Accessibility: Conversion measures for accessibility
Regional Support: State-specific programmes

Federal Support for Energy Efficiency (BEG)

The Federal Support for Efficient Buildings (BEG) promotes energetic renovation and efficient system technology. Particularly relevant for restaurateurs:

What is supported?

Efficient heating systems (heat pumps)
Ventilation systems with heat recovery
LED lighting systems
Building insulation and windows
Energy consultancy and concepts

Funding amount

Measure	Grant	Max. Amount
Heat pump	25-40%	No upper limit
Ventilation system	15%	€60,000 per unit
Building envelope (insulation)	15%	€60,000 per unit
Energy consultancy	80%	€1,300

Application

Applications are submitted via KfW or BAFA – always BEFORE the measure starts! An energy consultant must confirm the measure.

Digitalisation Support

Many federal states and the federal government promote the digitalisation of small businesses, including gastronomy establishments.

Eligible investments

Modern POS systems
Inventory management systems
Online ordering systems and reservation software
Website creation and online marketing
IT security and data protection
Digital accounting and workforce planning

Programmes by federal state (examples)

Federal State	Programme	Support
Bavaria	Digitalbonus	Up to 50%, max. €10,000
North Rhine-Westphalia	Mittelstand Innovativ	Up to 30%, max. €15,000
Baden-Württemberg	Digitalisierungsprämie	Up to 50%, max. €10,000
Lower Saxony	Digitalbonus.Niedersachsen	Up to 50%, max. €10,000
Federal	Go-digital	Up to 50%, max. €16,500

Start-up Funding

Special funding opportunities exist for founders in the gastronomy sector:

KfW Start-up Loan

Loan amount up to €125,000
Low interest and grace period on repayments
80% liability release (bank bears less risk)
For founders and young companies (up to 5 years)

ERP Capital for Start-ups

Subordinated loan (acts like equity)
Up to €500,000
7 years repayment grace period
Improves creditworthiness for further financing

Start-up Grant (Employment Agency)

For founders from unemployment:

6 months: unemployment benefit I + €300 per month
Further 9 months: €300 per month (optional)
Requirement: viable business plan

Support for Equipment Investments

Investment deduction allowance (IAB)

No direct subsidy but tax benefit:

Deduct up to 50% of planned acquisition costs in advance
Lowers tax burden in the year BEFORE the investment
Equipment must be purchased within 3 years
Max. total €200,000

Special depreciation according to §7g EStG

20% special depreciation in the year of acquisition possible
Additional to the regular depreciation
Accelerates tax relief

Example: Combi steamer for €15,000

IAB in prior year: €7,500 (50%) profit reduction
Special depreciation: €3,000 (20%)
Regular depreciation (year 1): ~€1,500
Total claimable in year 1: €12,000 for tax purposes

Regional Subsidies

Many cities and regions have their own funding pots for gastronomy, especially:

City Centre Support: Grants for businesses in pedestrian zones
Monument Protection: Support for conversion of historic buildings
Tourism Regions: Quality initiatives for hotels and gastronomy
Structurally Weak Areas: Increased funding rates in rural regions

Tip: Ask your Chamber of Industry and Commerce, economic development agency or local DEHOGA about regional programmes.

How to Apply for Subsidies

Identify Needs

What do you want to purchase or renovate? Estimate and document costs.

Research Programmes

Use funding databases: foerderdatenbank.de, KfW, BAFA, state bank

Get Advice

Engage Chamber of Industry and Commerce, tax advisors or subsidy consultants. Often free of charge!

Submit Application

ALWAYS before starting the measure! Only order/buy after approval.

Implement Measure

After approval: purchase, document, keep invoices.

Proof of Use

After completion: submit receipts, receive funding.

Common Mistake: Applied Too Late!

Most subsidy programmes require the application to be submitted BEFORE purchase or contract. Those who first buy and then apply receive nothing!

Useful Links and Contacts

KfW Bank: kfw.de – Start-up loans, energy efficiency
BAFA: bafa.de – Energy consultancy, BEG funding
Funding Database: foerderdatenbank.de – Searchable programmes
Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK): Regional contacts for advisory
DEHOGA: Trade association with subsidy tips for gastronomy

Invest with Gastro-Nik

Whether eligible energy-efficient refrigeration technology or modern gastro equipment – at Gastro-Nik you will find everything for your investment. We are happy to provide offers for your subsidy application.

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Subsidies for Restaurateurs 2024 - Energy Efficiency & More