The Interreg VI-A Bulgaria–Serbia Programme 2021–2027 launches 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 Call is addressed to Bulgarian and Serbian micro, small and medium-sized enterprises wishing to implement joint cross-border investment projects aimed at increasing productivity, modernization, digitalisation and expansion of market opportunities.
Who can apply?
Under this Call, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises may apply provided that they:
• are registered and/or effectively operate within the eligible cross-border territory of Bulgaria (Vidin, Vratsa, Montana, Kyustendil, Pernik and Sofia District) and Serbia (Niš, Zaječar, Pirot, Toplica, Jablanica, Pčinja and Bor districts);
• carry out activities in the eligible economic sectors, in accordance with the Guidelines for Applicants, namely:
C – Manufacturing (C.10, C.11, C.13–C.33);
E – Waste management (E.38.11, E.38.32, E.38.21, E.39);
J – Information and communication (J.58, J.59);
K – Telecommunications, computer programming, consulting, computing infrastructure and other information services (K.60–K.63);
N – Professional, scientific and technical activities (N.71, N.72, N.74);
I – Accommodation and food service activities (all codes);
H – Transportation and storage (all codes);
R – Human health and social work activities (all codes);
S – Arts, sports and recreation activities (all codes, except S92 – Gambling and betting);
• apply in partnership, with each project mandatorily involving at least one SME from Bulgaria and one SME from Serbia.
Important clarification:
It is not mandatory for an enterprise to be registered within the eligible cross-border territory. Enterprises that effectively operate or carry out economic activities within the eligible territories are also entitled to participate, in line with the Guidelines for Applicants.
Main financial parameters
• Project budget: from EUR 100,000 to EUR 400,000
• Grant per project partner: from EUR 50,000 to EUR 200,000
• Project duration: from 12 to 24 months
• Financing:
o 85% EU grant
o 15% co-financing (national co-financing from the state budget for Bulgarian SMEs / own contribution for Serbian SMEs)
• Advance payment: 10% of the total grant amountEligible activities
Projects must be investment-oriented, with at least 60% of the total budget allocated to investments, including but not limited to:
• modernization of production processes;
• introduction of new technologies and equipment;
• digitalisation and ICT solutions;
• improvement of quality and competitiveness;
• expansion of capacity and participation in value-added chains.Deadlines and information
Project proposals shall be submitted electronically via the JEMS system. Prior to submission, applicants are strongly encouraged to carefully review the Application Package.
The deadline for submission is March 31, 2026, 17:00 EET
Full information, the Guidelines for Applicants and updates are available on the official Programme website:
Consultations
Interested enterprises may benefit from individual consultations regarding project development or partner search by sending a request to the Joint Secretariat of the Programme at the following email address:
