1. Federal Subsidy (BAFA)

• Eligibility Area: Nationwide (Germany)
• Eligible Applicants: Private companies, cooperatives, and public legal entities (e.g., universities). Private individuals and non-profit associations are currently excluded.
• Subsidy Amount: 25% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of €3,500 per E-Cargo bike or trailer.
• Key Conditions:
  • The application must be submitted before the purchase.
  • Minimum usage period: 3 years.

Further info and application: BAFA – E-Cargo Bikes

2. State and Municipal Subsidies (Examples)

Bremen

Subsidy: Up to 40% of the purchase price, max. €1,000.

Source: Alltricks Overview

Bavaria (e.g., Munich)

Subsidy: 25% of net costs up to max. €500 (E-Cargo bike) or €750 (Cargo Pedelec).

Source: Alltricks Overview

Berlin

Currently no municipal subsidy; however, the federal BAFA subsidy remains applicable.

Source: Berlin Cargo Bike Funding

Brandenburg

Grants up to €4,000 for E-Cargo bikes, available for both private and commercial users.

Source: GreenBike Overview

3. Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Obtain a formal quote from the dealer (do not purchase yet).
2. Submit an online application via the BAFA Portal (for federal funding).
3. Wait for the official grant approval (Bewilligungsbescheid).
4. Complete the purchase and obtain the final invoice and proof of payment.
5. Upload the "Proof of Usage" (Verwendungsnachweis).
6. Subsidy payout following successful verification.

4. Important Reminders

• Apply before purchase – otherwise, the application will be rejected or funds reclaimed.
• Verify the eligibility of the specific model (e.g., minimum payload, electric drive type).
• Note the approval period (usually 12 months from the date of approval).
• Keep all documents digitally (PDF) to accelerate the verification process.