Every spring, farmers, hunters, and fawn rescuers face the same task: searching meadows before mowing to find fawns in time. Thermal imaging drones have established themselves as the fastest and safest method for this – and the federal government continues to subsidize their purchase. Here you'll find a concise overview of who is eligible for funding, which technologies are permitted, the process, and what is already foreseeable for 2026 .
Good to know: We at Vistatechshop are happy to personally assist you with the selection, the assembly of an eligible set, and – if desired – with the application preparation. In our shop, you will find a curated selection of suitable thermal imaging drones and complete sets for fawn rescue.
The federal program in brief (current guidelines)
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Subsidy: up to 60% of eligible costs, max. €4,000 per drone (one drone per applicant).
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Eligible applicants: registered, non-profit associations with a focus on hunting/wildlife rescue (e.g. district hunting associations).
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Minimum technical standards: Thermal imaging (integrated/compatible), ≥ 20 min flight time , Return-to-Home , CE class marking (EU drone law).
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Only new equipment , no double funding with other public subsidies, purchase only after approval .
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Purpose-bound for 3 years ; report deployment figures annually.
(The specific announcement for 2026 will follow as usual via the Federal Gazette/BLE; until then, the last round will serve as a guide.)
Here's how to get the funding – step by step
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Check the association and its statutes (non-profit status, the purpose of the statutes is appropriate).
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Select drone setup according to minimum criteria (see above).
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Submit your application online as soon as the round opens (typically in spring).
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Wait for the notification , then obtain it.
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Submit proof of use on time, report deployment figures .
Shopping guide: What you should look out for when choosing fawn rescue drones
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Dual camera (RGB + thermal imaging) with live image and useful thermal resolution for twilight/dawn.
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Battery concept for serial flights (interchangeable batteries, charging hub, possibly a case).
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Reliable connection & RTH , CE-C class clearly documented.
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Accessories : Landing pad, searchlight (where useful), spare propeller, monitor/tablet mount.
New: Our help & suitable drones at Vistatechshop
We make the path to funding as easy as possible for you:
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Free initial consultation : We clarify the deployment scenario, budget and eligibility for funding.
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Model recommendation & set configuration : Drone + thermal imaging, batteries/charging hub, transport case, spare parts – all in accordance with the directive.
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Documentation package for the application : Offer with clear CE class and technical specifications.
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On request: Instruction (remote or on site) for safe operations during the season.
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Service & spare parts : Quick help if something is needed during operation.
In the shop you will find a selection of suitable models and complete sets for fawn rescue.
2026: What you can prepare for now
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Provide the statutes and documents (register of associations, non-profit status) as PDFs.
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Planning the team and training (UAS rules, safety, operational procedures).
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Obtain quotes so that you are ready to apply immediately when the program starts.
Conclusion
Federal funding makes purchasing a thermal imaging drone for fawn rescue significantly easier – with clear technical specifications and a subsidy of up to €4,000 . We are happy to support you from model selection to the complete set, so that you are ready to start in time for the season and your application goes smoothly.