The deadline for the procedure “New Models in Manufacturing for SMEs” under the Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises Programme has officially been extended until 5 June 2026, 16:30 EET.
The programme provides significant support opportunities for Bulgarian micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises planning investments in digital transformation, production modernisation, automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
According to the updated information published under the programme, the total budget reaches approximately €96.3 million. Micro and small enterprises can apply for up to €250,000 in funding, while medium-sized enterprises can receive up to €400,000, with funding intensity reaching up to 70%.
The procedure supports projects connected to:
• smart manufacturing systems
• industrial automation
• digital production optimisation
• AI and data-driven manufacturing
• Industry 4.0 technologies
• innovation and technological modernisation
The extension provides additional time for businesses to prepare project proposals, investment plans, and digital transformation strategies.
At the same time, regional innovation initiatives continue to demonstrate the growing role of technology and interdisciplinary cooperation in Bulgaria’s industrial development ecosystem.
One recent example is the AquaSense IoT Hackathon, held on 17–18 May at Prof. Dr. Asen Zlatarov University in Burgas in cooperation with Ruse University and IEEE Bulgaria under the BLUE CRISTAL project. The initiative highlighted the increasing importance of IoT systems, smart technologies, and innovation-driven collaboration between academia, technology communities, and regional stakeholders.
Digital transformation remains one of the key priorities for strengthening industrial competitiveness, resilience, and sustainable economic development both in Bulgaria and across the wider European innovation ecosystem.
At DINT Foundation, we continue supporting initiatives connected to innovation, digitalisation, smart technologies, and collaboration between businesses, research institutions, and regional innovation networks.
Learn more ????
https://eumis2020.government.bg/bg/s/Procedure/Info/4f0e0f2d-0f7f-4b89-a3ff-5f7e6b0e8d9f
https://bluecristal.eu
