We have identified several opportunities related to EU programs that can speed up business development and help startups improve their operations during a period of intense competition in the scene. While information about what exactly is available for startups and entrepreneurs from Serbia in the EU is not so widespread and regular, this short overview focuses on a few key programs that provide financial support to a wide range of businesses, with a focus on IT and new technologies.
‘’Women Tech Europe Support Scheme’’ – EU funded project opportunity
First on the list is the Women TechEU Open Call that is conducted for the second time.
This call is an official call published on a EU Funding & Tenders Portal by the European Commision and it is applicable for Serbia since it is granted for Horizon Europe associated countries.
Direct support will be provided to 160 female entrepreneurs from across the European Union and its affiliated nations through Horizon Europe. Then, over the course of six months, each cohort of prosperous entrepreneurs will also be invited to take advantage of the range of company development services offered. Via cascade financing three million euros are available in total funding and the deadline date is 30 September 2024.
More information on how to apply and whether you meet the requirements can be found at this link.
Submitting ideas and projects to the EIC Accelerator in prospects of winning significant funding
EIC Accelerator is another opportunity to boost your business if you have a game changing product, service or business model that is about to make disruption within your industry.
Applications are welcome from start-ups, SMEs, people looking to start a sME, and small mid-cap companies to propose their innovations and maybe grow and scale up. For innovation projects that must be finished in 24 months, grants of up to € 2.5 million are available. While direct investments as high as €15 million are needed for market deployment in the next seven to ten years.
Applications from innovators in all EU member states and nations affiliated with the Horizon Europe initiative are welcomed, and therefore Serbian entities are welcome to apply. However, candidates from third-world nations may need to relocate their business to qualify.
All further information can be found here, and the first next cut-offs and interviews date is 3 October 2024.
Funding opportunities within the European DIGITAL SME Alliance
The European DIGITAL SME Alliance is the largest network ICT small and medium sized enterprises in Europe that offers opportunities not only to EU member states but neighboring countries such as Serbia, as well.
They have various opportunities in the pipeline and we have noticed an open call for Southern European SMEs and Scaleups that can be found on this list. Among other things, the categorization of startups varies from cyber security to robotics. The amount of financing is not specified and depends on the specific procurement during the process. The deadline is October 30, 2024.
Please note that in order to see the complete tender that attracts your attention, and to receive instructions on related details – especially in relation to financing, you must first officially register as a member of The European DIGITAL SME Alliance.
