Government Schemes in Germany
Verified government initiatives supporting skill development, vocational training, and entrepreneurship in Germany.
Duales Berufsausbildung (Dual VET System)
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Germany's world-famous dual vocational training system. Apprentices split their time between working at a company (70%) and attending a vocational school (Berufsschule) (30%). Available in over 300 officially recognized professions (IT, nursing, mechanics, baking, etc.). Highly attractive for non-EU citizens.
EXIST Business Start-up Grant
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)
Supports students, graduates, and scientists from universities and research institutes who want to turn their business idea into a business plan. The innovative idea should be a technology-oriented or knowledge-based product with significant unique features.
KfW Start-up Loan (ERP Start-up Loan)
KfW Bankengruppe
Germany's state-owned development bank offers subsidized loans to founders and young companies (up to 5 years after founding). Instead of applying to KfW directly, founders apply through their regular commercial bank.
ILO Skills and Employability Programme
International Labour Organization (UN)
While not a direct-to-consumer grant, the ILO partners with national governments to establish recognized vocational training systems, apprenticeship frameworks, and fair labor policies worldwide. Users benefit by engaging with ILO-certified national programs.
United Nations Volunteers
United Nations
Contribute to peace and development worldwide. UN Volunteers work in over 130 countries in human rights, climate change, healthcare, and disaster relief. Excellent stepping stone into the UN ecosystem.
World Bank Group Young Professionals Program
World Bank Group
The premier pathway into the World Bank Group. It recruits highly qualified young professionals who demonstrate a passion for international development, outstanding academic credentials, and leadership potential.