On 15.02.2023, 3 recent programs were announced to support the Digital Transformation of SMEs through NSRF.
Importantly, before you start reading below, for Action 1 to be eligible, among other things, the business must have had three full-time employees in the previous year or its equivalent (3 FTE).
Similarly, the minimum required annual work units for Action 2 is 5 FTE & for Action 3 is 9 FTE.
The urgency of the matter is that for the above 3 actions, there will be a FiFo out order, which means that all actions by you and by us, must be done as soon as possible!
An additional issue that we must deal with is that the three new projects, will be submitted to the new platform, called IPSKE (Integrated State Aid Information System) with all the “teething problems” that a new infrastructure presents.
Action 1 – BASIC DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION of SMEs
The priority of Action 1 “Basic Digital Transformation of SMEs” is to meet the basic needs of SMEs with modern information and communication technologies (ICT).
Opening of applications: 23/02/2023 at 12:00.
Minimum/maximum grant budget: €18,000 to €30,000.
Aid rate: from 50% to 60% depending on the region.
Budget for the action: €90 000 000.
ACTION 2 – ADVANCED DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION of SMEs
The priority of Action 2 “Advanced Digital Transformation of SMEs” is to upgrade micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) of medium digital maturity, through the use of advanced systems and technologies, with which they can improve their position in international markets, enhance operational flexibility, improve the production process, but also upgrade their competitiveness.
Opening of applications: 23/02/2023 at 12:00.
Minimum/maximum grant budget: €50,000 up to €650,000.
Aid rate: from 10% to 50% depending on the region, the size of the enterprise and the eligible expenditure.
Budget for the action: €150 000 000.
ACTION 3 – DIGITAL RESTRUCTURING OF SME’s
The priority of Action 3 ‘Digital transformation of cutting-edge SMEs’ is the upgrading of SMEs with innovative technologies or advanced digital systems of the 4th industrial revolution and, in addition, the coverage of specific needs in information and communication technologies (ICT) that enhance their productivity and competitiveness.
Opening of applications: 23/02/2023 at 12:00.
Minimum/maximum grant budget: €200,001 up to €1,200,000. Aid rate: from 25% to 60% depending on the aid scheme, the region of the country and the size of the enterprise.