Table of contents
Einstiegsgeld (German start-up subsidy for Bürgergeld recipients) is the most important funding tool for people on Bürgergeld (German basic welfare benefit since 2023, formerly ALG II) who want to start a business. As the state capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (MV), Schwerin offers a particular practical advantage: the Jobcenter Landeshauptstadt Schwerin and the Agentur für Arbeit Schwerin (Federal Employment Agency office in Schwerin) share the same building (Am Margaretenhof 14-16, 19057 Schwerin) — one appointment is enough if you need to handle ALG-I and Bürgergeld matters in parallel.
1. What is Einstiegsgeld?
Einstiegsgeld under § 16b SGB II is a Jobcenter benefit for Bürgergeld recipients who want to become self-employed. The key advantage: your Bürgergeld continues to be paid alongside it.
| Feature | Einstiegsgeld |
|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 24 months |
| Amount | Up to 75 % of the standard rate (approx. EUR 430/month) |
| Bürgergeld | Continues to be paid in parallel! |
| Additional option | Investment cost subsidy up to EUR 5,000 |
2. Requirements — who in Schwerin qualifies?
- Bürgergeld status: You currently receive Bürgergeld (SGB II) from the Jobcenter Landeshauptstadt Schwerin
- Viable business idea: Your venture must be economically viable
- Main occupation: The self-employment is expected to contribute to your living costs
- Discretionary decision: The Jobcenter decides at its discretion
3. How much money will you receive?
Example calculation Schwerin
Bürgergeld: EUR 563/month (standard rate 2026)
+ Einstiegsgeld: approx. EUR 300–430/month
+ Investment cost subsidy: up to EUR 5,000 one-off
= Double safety net during the start-up phase
4. Where to apply in Schwerin
Jobcenter Landeshauptstadt Schwerin
Address: Am Margaretenhof 14-16, 19057 Schwerin
Phone: 0800 4 55 55 00 (toll-free) · public authority hotline 115
Note: Responsible for the city of Schwerin. If you live in the Landkreis Ludwigslust-Parchim (Ludwigslust-Parchim district), a separate Jobcenter is responsible.
Practical advantage in Schwerin
The Jobcenter Landeshauptstadt Schwerin and the Agentur für Arbeit Schwerin share the same building (Am Margaretenhof 14-16). If your situation is currently changing (e. g. your ALG-I entitlement is ending, transition into Bürgergeld), you can settle matters with both authorities in a single appointment.
5. Investment cost subsidy (§ 16c SGB II)
On top of the Einstiegsgeld, the Jobcenter can grant subsidies or loans under § 16c SGB II for essential business assets:
- Machinery and tools
- Office equipment and IT
- Vehicles (if required for the business)
- Inventory
Tip: Combine with MV funding
For larger investment needs, the Mikrodarlehen MV (microloan from Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, up to EUR 25,000) administered by the GSA Schwerin is also worth considering — located at Werkstraße 213, 19061 Schwerin, right on your doorstep.
6. AVGS coaching for Bürgergeld recipients
As a Bürgergeld recipient, you are entitled to an AVGS (Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein — German activation and placement voucher). This makes start-up coaching including the business plan 100 % free of charge for you.
How to combine optimally
1. Apply for the AVGS voucher at the Jobcenter Landeshauptstadt Schwerin
2. Free coaching with business plan from us
3. Apply for Einstiegsgeld + investment cost subsidy
4. Launch your business with a double safety net