Checklist: Documents for the Start-Up Grant

1. Application Forms & Personal Data

• Application for the start-up grant (Gründungszuschuss) on the form of the Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit)
• ID card or registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung)
• Résumé in tabular form
• Proof of entitlement to unemployment benefit I (ALG I): approval notice showing remaining entitlement
• Proof of qualifications and work experience (diplomas, references, certificates)
• Prepared business registration (Gewerbeanmeldung), but submit it only after approval

2. Business Plan & Financial Planning

• Business plan (written narrative section)
• Capital requirements and financing plan
• Revenue and profitability forecast (usually 3 years)
• Liquidity plan (monthly, at least the first year)
• Overview of personal living expenses
• Market analysis / competitor overview (if relevant)

3. Official Documents & Expert Opinions

• Expert opinion (fachkundige Stellungnahme) on the viability of the business idea
• Proof of the qualified body (fachkundige Stelle): Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK), Chamber of Crafts (HWK), tax advisor, BAFA consultant
• Professional licenses or permits (if required)
• Proof of chamber membership (if required)
• Lease agreement or proof of location (if available)
• Concessions / industry-specific permits (if required)
• Proof of health insurance and social insurance

Tip: Make sure all the numbers match across all documents: the business plan, financial plan, and application form must not contradict each other. This is exactly what the Employment Agency looks at first.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Application Checklist

Which document is forgotten most often?

The expert opinion on viability (§ 93 para. 2 SGB III). It needs lead time and is a mandatory part of the application.

Does the business registration have to be included already?

No. Prepare it, but register the business only after approval; otherwise, the self-employment is considered to have started before the application was submitted, and the entitlement generally lapses.

How up to date must the documents be?

The business plan, financial plan, and expert opinion should match each other and be current. Contradictory numbers across the documents are the most common reason for rejection.

Are copies enough, or do they have to be originals?

Copies or uploads are usually enough; you generally submit the expert opinion as an original. Clarify the exact form with your Employment Agency.