Trade Fair Funding: What grants are available for trade fair appearances?

As of: May 2026

A trade fair appearance is an investment – but part of the costs can be recovered through funding programs. Young and innovative companies in particular receive targeted support. This guide provides an overview of the most important programs, the requirements, and the next steps. For an overall assessment, it is also worth taking a look at the guide How much does a trade fair appearance cost in total?

Note: Funding programs, conditions, and amounts change regularly. Always check the current conditions with the respective funding agency (BAFA, AUMA, your federal state) before submitting an application.

The “Young Innovators” Federal Program

The most important nationwide program is the “Promotion of the participation of young innovative companies in leading international trade fairs in Germany” – Young Innovators for short. It is supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), coordinated by AUMA, and processed by the Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA). The program has been extended until the end of 2028.

What is funded?

60% of the eligible costs for stand rental and stand construction are reimbursed (50% from the third participation onwards), up to a maximum of €7,500 per trade fair and exhibitor. Funding is provided for participation in a joint stand under the umbrella brand “Innovation made in Germany” at around 60 selected leading international trade fairs in Germany.

Who is eligible for funding?

Criterion	Requirement
Company size	Small enterprise according to EU definition (fewer than 50 employees, max. €10 million turnover/balance sheet total)
Age	Generally younger than 10 years
Location	Headquarters and business operations in Germany
Innovation	New or significantly improved products, processes, or services
Frequency	Max. 3 participations in the same trade fair are eligible for funding

Funding programs of the federal states

In addition to the federal program, many federal states offer their own trade fair funding – often for participation in trade fairs abroad, and sometimes domestically. The amount, conditions, and eligible companies differ depending on the state. A current, central overview of all federal and state programs is maintained by AUMA (Association of the German Trade Fair Industry) and the federal funding database. It is worth taking a look there before any trade fair planning.

How to proceed

• Check early: Funding must generally be applied for before registration – not retroactively.
• Select program: Check Young Innovators (nationwide) and the programs of your federal state.
• Match requirements: Size, age, location, and degree of innovation of your company.
• Observe deadlines: Registration deadlines for funded trade fairs are often months in advance.
• Use advisory services: AUMA, BAFA, IHK, and state development banks provide free advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much grant is available for a trade fair appearance?

Via the federal Young Innovators program, up to 60% of the costs for stand rental and stand construction, maximum €7,500 per trade fair. State programs provide funding in varying amounts.

Who can apply for trade fair funding?

In the federal program, primarily small, innovative companies based in Germany that are generally younger than ten years old. State programs have their own criteria.

Where can I find an overview of the funding programs?

At AUMA (Association of the German Trade Fair Industry), at BAFA, and in the federal funding database. IHK and state development banks can also help.

Do I have to apply for funding before the trade fair?

Yes. Funding is always applied for before registration, not retroactively. Plan with sufficient lead time, as deadlines are often months in advance.

Conclusion

There are real grants available for trade fair appearances: Young, innovative companies can receive reimbursement for up to 60% of the costs for stand rental and stand construction via the federal Young Innovators program, plus state programs. It is important to check early and apply in good time before registration. AUMA provides a current overview. We would be happy to advise you on a trade fair appearance with a suitable modular exhibition stand that fits your budget and your goals.