AI EDIH for the North Central Region Bulgaria provides timely and up-to-date information on funding opportunities and new programs for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that wish to implement innovations and support their business development. Within the framework of Work Package 6, a structured database has been developed, containing funding opportunities, programs, and financial instruments for SMEs and public organizations
AI EDIH can assist in establishing contacts with funding bodies, such as banks, business angels, and in exploring opportunities to encourage SME participation in consortia. Such opportunities exist under various national and European programs, including development of Integrated Territorial Investment Concepts – second call, Horizon Europe, the LIFE Programme and the Digital Europe Programme. AI EDIH provides expert assistance in exploring and accessing products and services offered by the Bulgarian Development Bank and the financial instrument Fund Manager of Financial Instruments in Bulgaria, as well as the Guarantee Product financed by InvestEU.
AI EDIH supports businesses in accessing upcoming funding opportunities for the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as in joining the Innovation Accelerator under the European Innovation Council.
For the first time, Bulgarian SMEs can apply for up to EUR 1 billion in funding for production of battery cells for electric vehicles under the LIFE Programme – (Innovation Fund 24 Battery).
Regional Administration of Veliko Tarnovo is the first public body from the North Central Region to use the services of the AI EDIH and gain access to exclusive opportunities for implementing artificial intelligence-based innovations to optimize public services for citizens.
The AI EDIH’S website provides up-to-date information and advice on securing funding for digitalization and innovation in businesses and public organizations.
The project is funded by the Programme “Research, Innovation and Digitalisation for Smart Transformation” 2021–2027, co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund. The project is coordinated by the Regional Innovation Centre “Ambitious Gabrovo”.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. The European Union cannot be held responsible for them.
