Denmark’s national business grant strategy

Funding for

Business development, innovation, and green or digital transformation in Danish SMEs and startups

Grant amount

Varies by program; typical grants range from DKK 500,000 to DKK 10 million

Deadline

Multiple calls each year; next deadlines expected in spring and autumn 2025

Answer

Most programs respond within 2–4 months after application deadline

What is Denmark’s Business Development Strategy?

“Virksomhedsudvikling i hele Danmark 2024–2027“ is Denmark’s national strategy for business development and funding, managed by the Danish Board for Business Promotion (Danmarks Erhvervsfremmebestyrelse). It focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurs, and innovation ecosystems across the entire country—urban and rural alike.

The strategy outlines how public grant programs can help companies navigate major transformations in digitalization, green transition, and global competitiveness. It also strengthens Denmark’s position as a nation of innovation, productivity, and sustainable growth.

The current strategy builds on years of regional and national efforts to make business support more coordinated, simple, and impactful.

Who can apply?

Companies of all sizes, especially SMEs and startups, can apply for support under this strategy. Most programs are also open to partnerships that include research institutions, clusters, or public actors—particularly when projects aim to create wider regional or sectoral impact.

Applicants must be based in Denmark, and projects must be relevant to the business development needs of Danish companies. Strong emphasis is placed on companies that are ready to grow, innovate, export, or invest in green or digital upgrades.

What kinds of projects are supported?

The strategy funds a wide range of business development activities—from strengthening core competencies to scaling internationally or investing in sustainable practices.

Programs are designed to meet companies where they are: some support early-stage startups, others focus on mature SMEs needing help with transformation or growth. Companies can receive funding for investments, advisory services, test and demonstration activities, cluster development, workforce upskilling, and much more.

There is also a strong focus on helping businesses adapt to rapid change (e.g. energy, supply chains, global markets); investing in Denmark’s strengths (e.g. green solutions, advanced manufacturing, tourism); making support simple and available across the whole country

How does the funding system work?

Funding is distributed through national programs, each designed to meet one or more of the strategy’s goals. These include:

  • The Business Program, offering co-financing for company investments and development.
  • The Entrepreneurship Program, supporting the launch and scaling of new startups.
  • The Cluster Program, helping knowledge sharing and innovation across sectors.
  • Green Transition and Circular Economy initiatives, promoting sustainability.
  • Workforce development projects, ensuring access to skilled employees.
  • Tourism initiatives, with a focus on sustainable local growth.

All programs are delivered through regional actors—such as business hubs, innovation environments, and clusters—with national coordination and oversight.

When and how can you apply?

Calls for funding are announced throughout the year, depending on the program. Each call will specify the focus area, eligibility, and deadline.

In most cases, companies submit a short application through a regional or national portal. Applications are evaluated on business potential, growth or transition capacity, and project feasibility.

If you’re planning a project that involves scaling up, testing a new solution, entering new markets, or becoming more sustainable—there’s likely a relevant funding path for you.

Want to apply or learn more?

If your company is looking to grow, innovate, or navigate the green or digital transition, the Danish business development programs can offer tailored support.

Contact 1st Mile for a free screening of your idea—we’ll help you understand which programs fit your needs and how to position your project.

You can also read the full 2024–2027 strategy (in Danish) on erhvervsfremmebestyrelsen.dk or read the calls here.

Want to know more? Contact Søren Houmøller at +45 40 44 67 14 or at soren@1stmile.dk.