"Saxony-Anhalt's Economic Minister, Sven Schulze, initiates the third phase of the business competition"
The CROSS INNOVATION funding program, a key component of the DIGITAL AND CREATIVE ECONOMY program family, is set to return for its third round in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt, starting on July 7, 2025. This program, which has been supporting interdisciplinary innovation networks since 2015, funded by the state of Saxony-Anhalt and the EU, invites applications from business networks until August 8, 2025.
This year, the program has made some changes to its eligibility criteria. As few as three participating partners are now sufficient for funding, instead of the previous five. Networks must consist of at least 50% companies from the creative industry or creative crafts.
The funding available for the third round amounts to a total of 1.6 million euros. Projects should involve digital possibilities and a blend of creative ideas with entrepreneurial practical knowledge. Successful applicants will be awarded funding, with the best concepts receiving up to 170,000 euros per network, depending on the project duration, which can be up to three years.
For those seeking guidance and advice on their applications, the Investment Bank Saxony-Anhalt offers assistance and a half-day workshop for application preparation during the ongoing process. Additionally, the Creative Portal Saxony-Anhalt provides best practice examples of successful network projects from previous rounds, offering valuable insights into the program's expectations and success factors.
Applications can be submitted informally by email to [email protected]. For detailed and official information about the CROSS INNOVATION program for 2025, it is recommended to consult the official Saxony-Anhalt state government or relevant business development agency websites directly.
The CROSS INNOVATION funding program has previously supported various projects, including digital matching platforms and design material innovations in crafts. By fostering collaborations between businesses from various sectors and companies from the creative industry or creative crafts, it aims to drive innovation and economic growth in Saxony-Anhalt.
An entrepreneur from the creative industry might consider applying for the CROSS INNOVATION funding program, as it offers finance to businesses that blend digital possibilities with entrepreneurial practical knowledge. Successful applicants could receive up to 170,000 euros, and networks as small as three partners are now eligible, as long as they consist of at least 50% companies from the creative industry or creative crafts.
