Förderpunkt

Förderpunkt is a German term used in public administration, nonprofit work and policy contexts to denote a focal point for the allocation, administration or coordination of funding, subsidies or support measures. The expression does not have a single universal definition and its exact meaning varies depending on the program, institution or policy area in which it is used.

In practice, a Förderpunkt may refer to a designated office, department or contact point within a government agency, foundation or funding program that handles information, guidance and processing of funding opportunities. It can also denote a specific funding track or stream within a larger program, with its own application procedures, eligibility criteria and reporting requirements.

The primary functions of a Förderpunkt include informing potential applicants about available funding, assessing eligibility, overseeing the application and selection process, distributing funds and monitoring compliance. Applicants typically submit proposals to the Förderpunkt, which evaluates them according to published criteria and, if successful, dispenses the funds in one or several installments.

The concept is part of broader funding instruments (Förderinstrumente) such as grants, subsidies or loans. In policy documents and program guidelines, the term may appear alongside calls for proposals, evaluation criteria and implementation deadlines. Because its exact role depends on context, a Förderpunkt should be understood in relation to the specific program or institution that uses the term.

Related concepts include general grant administration, funding programs, subventions and the governance of public or philanthropic financing.