Deadline Date: May 07, 2026
The Challenge2Collaborate (C2CoLab) grant fund under the SPRING program has opened a public call for concept proposals aimed at supporting export-oriented SMEs in Bosnia and Herzegovina in their transition toward smarter and more sustainable business models.
The focus areas, objectives, priorities, and themes of this call include innovations and improvements that contribute to greater added value, digital and green transformation, improving human resources and knowledge management, and developing cooperation with knowledge-based business service providers. The program is further oriented toward strengthening export-oriented enterprises operating in key sectors such as plastics production and processing, metal and electrical industries, wood processing, the food industry, and the ICT sector.
This initiative is designed to support the structural transformation of the economy by encouraging a shift from low-value exports toward innovation-driven and high-value-added production. It places strong emphasis on fostering competitiveness, resilience, and sustainable growth among SMEs operating in international markets.
The total available funding under this call is 600,000 KM, with individual grants ranging from 30,000 KM to 60,000 KM per project. In addition to financial support, selected applicants will also receive expert assistance to strengthen project implementation and impact.
The program also aims to strengthen collaboration between the private sector, academia, public institutions, and international partners, with the goal of enabling technology transfer, product innovation, and the commercialization of research outcomes. Through such cooperation, businesses are expected to gain better access to knowledge, skills, and innovation ecosystems that support long-term development.
Additional attention is given to early-stage entrepreneurs and growth-oriented companies, including women-led and marginalized groups, in order to promote inclusive innovation and broaden participation in economic development. The program also highlights the importance of engaging diaspora networks and international partners to improve access to global markets and investment opportunities.
Through mentoring, innovation-focused networking, and challenge-based approaches, the program seeks to build a stronger culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Ultimately, this initiative contributes to creating decent employment opportunities, supporting youth retention, and enhancing the overall resilience and competitiveness of the economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
For more information, visit EDA.
