Of the RON2.2 billion amount, the Government has secured RON520 million so far and is expected to provide the rest under the budget revision.
Companies that participated in past editions are not eligible, according to Cursdeguvernare.ro. The micro-enterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) established after January 1, 2020 are deemed eligible companies.
The program is managed by the Ministry of Entrepreneurship and Tourism and has two pillars: the classic one, similar to those of the previous years, and a second pillar, with a budget of RON200 million intended for the diaspora.
Grants of up to RON200,000 (EUR40,000) are extended to projects generating at least two jobs, while projects generating only one job will get RON100,000 (EUR20,000). However, the number of jobs created will no longer be a criterion for ranking the projects. Instead, the activities with added value in Romania, new investments, green energy, digitalization and entrepreneurial training will be favored.
The program aims to stimulate entrepreneurs to set up and develop SMEs, improve the economic performance of their businesses, the sustainable development, as well as smart, sustainable and inclusive economic growth based on digitalization and innovation, according to Constantin-Daniel Cadariu, Romania’s minister of entrepreneurship and tourism.