SMEs are reluctant to invest in an ERP system. What many don't know is that you can apply for government funding for your project.
Many small and medium-sized companies do not consider investing in a new ERP system because they think the software is too expensive. As a provider of SAP software in particular, we often encounter potential buyers who believe that all solutions are backed by system giants with correspondingly high prices. Costs assume. Yet there is affordable standard software such as SAP Business One with many add-on options that make the software very flexible for different industries. The range is also growing in the area of SAAS and thus offers a financially viable option for SMEs. Nevertheless, an ERP project is of course not a cheap endeavour.
Just to ensure an efficient Consulting companies have to invest in the new system. However, this is necessary if the new system is to achieve the desired success. This investment is often too risky for SMEs. However, many smaller companies do not take this into account: EU, federal and state governments support companies with ERP consultations with subsidies. However, ONLY the consultancy, NOT the software itself.
However, especially in the case of a Standard software In the case of software solutions such as SAP Business One, technical implementation is only a small part of the project. Consultancy also includes the process analysis and the Preparation of a specification sheet. Once you have familiarised yourself with the process of ERP projects, you will know that this is the bear part. However - how could it be otherwise - the regulation of funding in this area is very opaque. Searching the web is a challenge. The development bank of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy provides a reasonably good overview.
State subsidies at federal level
In the case of funding at federal level, the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control is responsible. Applications are available on their website, which companies can also submit directly online. The prerequisite is that the company has already been in existence for a year and also wishes to take advantage of advice on other topics (business, technology, organisation, etc.). This may also include ERP consulting.
State subsidies at state level
At state level, as with pretty much everything, it varies from state to state. The investment and development banks are a (good) source of information here. They also set out the respective criteria that the applicant must fulfil.
Another option for subsidies for a ERP project For example, it is possible to obtain loans that are particularly favourable and long-term. These "subsidised" loans are offered by the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau. You can normally apply for these loans via your house bank.
Either way: In the case of an ERP project, good research is worthwhile. Regarding the first steps Please do not hesitate to ask us.
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