Hamburg Launches New Hydrogen Funding Program

Hamburg is supporting investment across the entire hydrogen value chain through a new funding programme. Companies can submit applications until 30 October 2026. Grants of up to €4 million are available per project.

Launched on 24 September, the programme aims to accelerate the practical deployment of innovative hydrogen technologies. It supports investment in hydrogen production, storage, distribution and use. Eligible projects include electrolysers, storage, transport and distribution infrastructure, as well as applications in industry, mobility and logistics.

For the hydrogen sector, the programme creates additional opportunities to implement projects and generate local value in Hamburg. As an industrial hub and port city, Hamburg combines potential for hydrogen production and imports with the development of network infrastructure and hydrogen use. Hydrogen is particularly needed in sectors where direct electrification is difficult.

Up to €5 million is available for the first funding round in 2026. Further rounds are planned for 2027 and 2028, subject to approval of the 2027/2028 biennial budget by the Hamburg Parliament. The programme is intended to provide a total of up to €15 million through 2028.

Funding will take the form of non-repayable grants covering a proportion of project costs, with a maximum of €4 million per project. Companies must submit their applications before work begins. Projects will be selected through a competitive process. Assessment criteria include their contribution to Hamburg’s climate and transformation targets, degree of innovation, technical feasibility, economic viability and benefits for Hamburg as a business location.

The application deadline is 30 October 2026. Funding conditions and application documents are available on the website of Hamburg’s Ministry of Economy, Labour and Innovation.