The INTERREG VI-A IPA Bulgaria – North Macedonia Programme 2021-2027 is pleased to announce an Open Call for Project Proposals for SME's under Priority3 - Integrated Development of the Border Region with the specific objective (SO) 1: "Increase the competitiveness of the local economy and improve the business environment"
Call Reference: Call No. 2021TC16IPCB006–2025–4
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.
Key Information:
Funding Available: Total budget of €4,990,345 (EU contribution + national co-financing)
Grant Amount per Project: Between €300 000 and €600 000
Grant Amount per SME: Between €100 000 and €300 000
EU co-financing rate: 85% + 15% national contribution;
Project Duration: Between 12 and 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.
Before preparation of the project proposal and electronic filling the application form in Jems, the potential applicant must carefully review the content of the Application Package, available on the following websites:
Programme website: https://ipa-bgmk.mrrb.bg
MA website: www.mrrb.bg
NA website: https://mls.gov.mk/
EU Structural Funds in Bulgaria website: www.eufunds.bg
Jems website: https://jems-bgmk.mrrb.bg/
Jems manual: https://jems.interact.eu/manual/
Deadline: September 15, 2025, 17:00 EET
You can contact the Joint Secretariat of the Programme for additional information: jsipakyustendil@gmail.com
Deadline for Submission of Questions: Questions related to this call may be submitted in writing no later than 21 calendar days before the deadline (by August 26, 2025). Responses will be provided no later than 14 calendar days before the deadline (by September 2, 2025).
Stay Updated!
📢 For more details, application guidelines, and updates on Info Days and the upcoming Partnership Forum, visit our 🌐 Website: https://ipa-bgmk.mrrb.bg and 📍 Follow us on Facebook and Linkedin.
Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your SME’s growth and competitiveness through cross-border cooperation!
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