The first call for applications under the LEADER Imathia 2023–2027 Local Development Programme for Private-Sector Projects offers new funding opportunities for businesses and investors in the Imathia region of Greece.
The programme is implemented under Intervention P3-77-4.1, which supports community-led local development through LEADER. Its aim is to strengthen the local economy, encourage entrepreneurship and support sustainable business investment.
Eligible investment budgets can reach €300,000 for most business categories, with a higher ceiling of €400,000 for certain agricultural product processing projects.
Applications opened on 1 October 2026, and the submission deadline is 14 January 2027.
Which Areas Are Covered by LEADER Imathia?
The programme covers designated eligible areas within the regional unit of Imathia in Central Macedonia, Greece.
Areas within the approved urban plans of Veria, Naousa and Alexandreia are excluded.
As a result, the exact location of a proposed investment must be verified before an application is prepared. Being located in Imathia does not automatically make a business eligible for funding.
Which Businesses Are Eligible?
LEADER Imathia supports a range of business activities that contribute to the development of the local economy. Depending on the relevant funding category, opportunities may be available to both existing businesses and new ventures.
Eligible sectors and activities may include:
- Agricultural product processing, including the establishment or modernisation of processing facilities.
- Manufacturing and processing of non-agricultural products, subject to the programme's eligibility criteria.
- Small-scale manufacturing, crafts and traditional production, supporting local businesses and producers.
- Tourism-related activities, subject to specific conditions and geographical restrictions.
- Service businesses, where the proposed activity falls within an eligible category.
- Energy and water efficiency projects and circular economy initiatives, in accordance with the requirements of the relevant funding category.
Eligibility depends on the business activity, the applicable Greek Activity Code (KAD), the investment location and the specific conditions of each funding category.
What Is the Maximum Eligible Investment Budget?
The maximum eligible investment budget varies depending on the type of project.
For most investments aimed at strengthening the local economy, the maximum eligible budget is €300,000.
For certain projects involving the processing of agricultural products, the eligible investment budget may reach €400,000.
For projects consisting exclusively of intangible investments, the maximum eligible budget is €40,000.
Important: These figures represent the maximum eligible investment budgets, not the grant amounts businesses will receive. The actual public funding available depends on the applicable grant rate, eligible costs and the conditions of the relevant funding category.
What Expenses Can Be Funded?
LEADER Imathia can support the establishment of new business facilities, the expansion of existing operations and investments aimed at improving productivity and operational efficiency.
Depending on the funding category, eligible expenses may include:
- Construction work, building improvements and the adaptation of commercial premises.
- Purchase and installation of production machinery and equipment.
- Professional equipment required for business operations or modernisation.
- Energy efficiency improvements and resource-saving measures.
- Other investment-related expenses explicitly permitted under the relevant funding category.
The eligibility of each expense is assessed according to the nature of the proposed investment and the programme's specific requirements.
What About Tourism Investments?
LEADER Imathia also offers potential funding opportunities for businesses operating in the tourism sector.
However, tourism investments are subject to additional eligibility requirements and geographical restrictions, particularly when they involve the establishment of new tourist accommodation facilities.
Before preparing an application, investors should verify the proposed location, the type of tourism activity and the specific requirements applicable to their project.
Who Can Apply?
Depending on the funding category, eligible applicants may include existing businesses, newly established entities and individuals or legal entities planning to establish a business, provided they meet the relevant requirements.
This means the programme may support both the expansion or modernisation of an existing business and the launch of a new business venture.
However, eligibility is not automatic. Each application is assessed based on the proposed activity, the relevant Greek Activity Code (KAD), the investment location, the project budget and the other criteria specified in the call.
When Is the Application Deadline?
The application period is as follows:
Applications open: 1 October 2026
Application deadline: 14 January 2027
Applications must be submitted electronically through OPSKE, Greece's Integrated State Aid Information System, together with the required supporting documents and investment proposal.
Early preparation is particularly important, as some projects may require technical studies, permits or additional documentation.
What Are the Main Eligibility Requirements?
To qualify for funding, both the applicant and the proposed investment must meet the requirements of the relevant funding category.
Key eligibility considerations include:
- The business activity and its corresponding Greek Activity Code (KAD).
- The precise location of the investment.
- The nature of the project and its eligible investment budget.
- Any necessary permits, approvals and technical documentation.
- The applicant's ability to cover the required private contribution.
- A complete investment proposal with all required supporting documents.
Applications are evaluated and selected according to the assessment criteria established in the call.
Why Is Early Preparation Important?
Applying for LEADER funding involves considerably more than completing an online form.
Businesses need to confirm their eligibility, develop a realistic investment budget, gather the necessary documentation and prepare a complete application.
Projects involving construction work, permits or technical studies may require additional preparation time.
Starting early allows investors to identify potential eligibility issues, address outstanding requirements and prepare a stronger, more complete application before the deadline.
How AFS Can Support You?
AFS provides comprehensive support to businesses and investors seeking to benefit from the LEADER Imathia 2023–2027 programme,managing the application process from the initial eligibility assessment through submission and support during project implementation.
Our services include:
- Eligibility assessment of your business and proposed investment.
- Preparation and organisation of the application dossier, in line with the programme's requirements.
- Submission of the funding application through the designated online system.
- Ongoing guidance and support during project implementation.
Our goal is to help businesses understand their funding options, meet the programme's requirements and move forward with a well-prepared investment proposal.
Planning a new investment or looking to expand your business in Imathia?
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the funding available for your project. Contact AFS to assess whether your investment may qualify for LEADER Imathia funding.
📅 Application deadline: 14 January 2027
Contact us:
📞 210 831 7702
Alternatively, complete our contact form, and a member of the AFS team will get back to you.
