Deadline: October 17, 2025
Applications are now open for Marketing Strategy for Micro and Small Enterprises scheme to support businesses through non-repayable grants to enhance their marketing efficiency and competitiveness.
The scheme aligns with Policy Objective 1, “A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity,” under the SFC2021 Programme 2021-2027. It particularly addresses PO1, promoting entrepreneurship by facilitating the economic exploitation of new ideas and fostering the creation of new firms, including through business incubators, and RSO1.3, enhancing sustainable growth and competitiveness of SMEs and job creation in SMEs, including by productive investments.
The Marketing Strategy for Micro Small Enterprises scheme operates until 31st December 2026, with an initial budget allocation of 500,000 euros. Managed via an open rolling call, grants are awarded on a first-come-first-served basis subject to budget availability. The maximum grant value is capped at 10,000 euros, with aid intensities varying by enterprise status—60% for startups up to five years old and 50% for older enterprises.
Eligible undertakings include micro and small enterprises engaged in economic activities, regardless of legal form, subject to exclusions such as undertakings in difficulty, public entities without economic activities, and specific industries like tobacco manufacturing. The scheme finances the procurement of marketing strategies from external, unrelated service providers registered with the Intermediate Body.
The marketing strategy report must encompass executive summaries, business overviews, market analyses, marketing goals aligned with SMART criteria, positioning and branding approaches, marketing tactics including digital marketing, financial overviews, implementation plans, risk management, and sustainability considerations. The strategy aims to provide comprehensive plans that enable enterprises to attract, engage, and retain customers effectively.
Applications require detailed documentation, such as audited financial statements, compliance certificates, evidence of private match financing, and quotations from service providers. The scheme emphasizes compliance with EU regulations, state aid requirements, and promotes equal opportunities throughout project implementation.
Applicants undergo a gateway criteria assessment to ensure complete documentation, eligibility, and match financing capacity. The grant agreement sets legally binding terms, with project managers responsible for day-to-day implementation and communication with authorities. Monitoring, auditing, and reporting mechanisms ensure financial management integrity and compliance.
Benefits include financial support to micro and small enterprises to access expert marketing strategies, enabling them to improve their market positioning and competitiveness. Publicity obligations require grantees to acknowledge EU co-financing in their reports and outreach activities.
For more information, visit FONDI.eu.
