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Financing digitalisation with the KfW loan 511/512

Margarita · Kosmo Team · 24 October 2026 · 4 min read
In shortWith the ERP digitalisation loan (KfW 511/512), small and mid-sized businesses can finance up to 100% of the cost of a digitalisation project, including external consulting and implementation. Projects in IT security or AI on your own data also get a grant. Important: you apply through your bank, and you must apply before the project starts.

What is funded?

Digitalisation projects are funded, for example:

There is no minimum amount. You choose the service provider yourself; there is no list of approved consultants.

Which stages are there?

  1. Stage 1: Basics. IT infrastructure, standard software, moving to the cloud, training. Loan only. Before you apply, you complete KfW’s free digitalisation check.
  2. Stage 2: IT security. For example ISO 27001 or a full security concept. Loan plus grant.
  3. Stage 3: Large projects and AI. For example big data or AI on your own data. Loan plus grant.

KfW publishes the current grant rates on its terms page. They change, so we check them again before every meeting.

Who can get the loan?

Small and mid-sized businesses, including the self-employed and freelancers. Stages 2 and 3 are also open to larger mid-sized companies. There is no minimum company age.

How does the application work?

  1. Plan the project: what will be done, and what does it cost?
  2. Apply through your bank before you sign a contract with a service provider.
  3. After approval: carry out the project.

A well-reasoned project plan with costs makes the meeting with your bank easier.

How does Kosmo Team help?

Frequently asked questions

Does the service provider have to be registered with KfW?

No. You choose the service provider freely.

Can I apply for the loan after the project has started?

No. You must apply before the project starts. Signing the contract usually already counts as the start.

Do I get a grant for every project?

No. The grant is available for stages 2 and 3, that is IT security and larger projects or AI on your own data.

Do consulting costs count as eligible costs?

Yes. External consulting and implementation can be co-financed.

Want to know which funding fits your project?

General information, not financial advice. The current KfW terms and your bank’s review apply. As of 24 October 2026.

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