Deadline Date: March 31, 2026
The Interreg VI-A Bulgaria–Serbia Programme 2021–2027 has launched the Second Call for Project Proposals for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) under Priority 1 “Competitive Border Region”, with Specific Objective RSO1.3 – Enhancing sustainable growth and competitiveness of SMEs and job creation in SME’s including by productive investments.
The EU-funded programme aims to support the accession process while strengthening territorial cohesion between Bulgaria and Serbia. Recognizing the importance of preserving cultural, social, and economic links across the border, the programme seeks to foster sustainable development and enhance collaboration between the regions.
The current call falls under Priority 1: Competitive Border Region, which focuses on enhancing the growth and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and creating jobs through productive investments. The initiative is designed to boost enterprise productivity, support SMEs in navigating economic transitions, and provide a favorable environment for integration into regional and international value chains.
The programme has a total funding allocation of EUR 4,226,498 to support SME-focused projects through direct investments. Individual project budgets must range from EUR 100,000 to EUR 400,000, with grants per project partner set between EUR 50,000 and EUR 200,000. The specific objective is to promote sustainable growth, strengthen competitiveness, and generate employment opportunities within SMEs operating in the cross-border area.
Eligible applicants must be legally established entities according to national legislation and must have been registered and operating in the programme area between Bulgaria and Serbia no later than December 31, 2021. Applicants must meet the EU definition of micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises as outlined in EU Recommendation 2003/361 and relevant national legislation.
Potential applicants are not eligible if they fall under exclusion criteria defined in Article 138 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509, which governs financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union. Subsidy contracts will only be signed with applicants who have no pending financial obligations to the Managing Authority or National Authority, ensuring that projects are supported by financially compliant partners.
This call provides a unique opportunity for SMEs in the border region to access funding that enhances productivity, promotes job creation, and strengthens their participation in regional and international economic networks.
For more information, visit Interreg VI-A Bulgaria–Serbia.
