A new programme with a 70% grant has been launched to support the modernisation of businesses established before 2022 and operating or planning to operate in the North Aegean Region. The programme is entitled "Action 1.3.1" and focuses on the implementation of innovations with emphasis mainly on non-technological solutions, in the context of the National Smart Specialisation Strategy.

One of the key conditions for joining the programme is to be in paid employment in 2023. In particular, the enterprise must have employed at least one full-time equivalent of at least one FTE (Annual Work Unit), which is the equivalent of 300 8-hour days. However, this requirement can also be met on a part-time basis.

The programme is open to businesses operating in sectors such as:

• tourism (e.g. hotels, tourist agencies),
• catering (e.g. restaurants, cafés),
• processing (e.g. bakeries, distilleries),
• wholesale food trade,
• services (e.g. engineers, doctors, lawyers, garages, gyms).

Budget and Grant

The budget of each proposal can range from €60,000 to €400,000, but cannot exceed three times the company's turnover for 2022 or 2023. The subsidy rate is up to 70%, while the remaining amount is covered by private participation, which can come either from own resources or through bank loans.

Conditions of Participation

To join the programme, businesses must meet the following conditions:
- They are established before 2022.
- They are active in an eligible KAU of economic activity.
- They had at least one EME (300 8-hour increments) in 2023.
- They have secured 30% of the total budget as private participation.
- They operate legally and have the necessary licensing documents.
- They are not in bankruptcy, liquidation or administration.

Eligible Expenses

Eligible costs include:
- **Construction or improvement of buildings**
- **Environmental design**
- **Equipment**
- **Transportation means**
- **Staff**
- **Consultancy and engineering fees**
- **Logic and programs**
- **Promotion, promotion & networking**
- **Indirect costs**

The starting date for eligibility of expenditure is 23/09/2024.

Deadline and Completion of the Investment
Applications can be submitted until 05/12/2024, and the investment must be completed within 24 months from the date of the decision.

To express your interest please fill in the form below: