Public Consultation – Call No. 2021TC16IPCB006–2025–4

The Managing Authority of the Interreg VI-A IPA Bulgaria – North Macedonia Programme 2021–2027 is pleased to announce the launch of public consultations for the Upcoming Call for Project Proposals No. 2021TC16IPCB006–2025–4, under Priority 3: Integrated development of the border region, and Specific Objective 1 (SO1): “Increase the competitiveness of the local economy and improve the business environment.” This call is developed within the framework of the Territorial Strategy of the Interreg VI-A IPA Bulgaria – North Macedonia Programme, with the active support of the Strategy Board."

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), legally registered and operating in the Programme area as of 31 December 2022, with at least 51% private ownership. Eligible sectors include manufacturing, waste management, ICT, professional services, and more, as defined in the NACE Rev. 2.1 classification.

Available Funding:

Total available budget for SO1: €4,990,345;

Grant per project: €300,000 – €600,000;

Grant per partner SME: €100,000 – €300,000;

EU co-financing rate: 85% + 15% national contribution;

Project duration: 12–24 months

Eligible Activities:

Projects must consist of at least 65% investment activities (e.g., equipment, eco-innovation, circular economy technologies, smart manufacturing systems), and may include up to 35% soft measures, such as training, advisory services, digitalization, and internationalization support.

All projects must demonstrate direct cross-border impact, including joint development and joint implementation by partners from both countries.

Public Consultation Details:

All stakeholders, including SMEs, business support organizations, local authorities, and the wider public are invited to provide comments on the Guidelines for Applicants.

Consultation deadline: 20 May 2025, 17:00 EEST

Submit feedback via email to:  jsipakyustendil@gmail.com

Reference: “Public Consultation –Call No. 2021TC16IPCB006–2025–4”

The Managing Authority encourages all eligible and interested parties to take part in this consultation process and to actively contribute to the design of impactful, sustainable, and cooperative projects across the Bulgaria–North Macedonia border.

GUIDELINES FOR APPLICANTS - OPEN CALL FOR PROJECT PROPOSALS No 2021TC16IPCB006– 2025 – 4, SO1 “Increase the competitiveness of the local economy and improve the business environment” under Priority 3: “Integrated development of the border region”