NEARLY €310 MILLION WILL BE INVESTED IN BUSINESS MODERNIZATION IN 2026 UNDER THE MINISTRY OF INNOVATION AND GROUTH (MIG) PROGRAM
The Ministry of Innovation and Growth (MIG) will invest nearly €310 million in the modernization of Bulgarian businesses in 2026. The funds will be distributed across five procedures under the “Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises” Program. They will be aimed at strengthening the industrial capacity of companies, developing clean and resource-efficient technologies of critical importance, and introducing new and more environmentally friendly models in production.
In the coming days, a measure will be opened for applications to support the development of companies producing defense-related products or dual-use items. Such products include, for example, high-performance computers and microprocessors, radar systems, lidars, cryptographic software, drones, other unmanned vehicles, etc. The latter can be used both for reconnaissance and surveillance, as well as for goods delivery, agriculture, or the creation of photos, videos, and films. The budget for this procedure will be €70.6 million. Eligible applicants will include micro, small, medium, and large enterprises.
This month, a measure worth €96.3 million will also be launched for the introduction of new production models. Almost half of its budget—€46 million—will be directed toward companies in the less developed regions of Northern Bulgaria. Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises will be able to apply. The funds can be used to purchase machinery, facilities, equipment, specialized software, etc. The goal is for enterprises to increase their innovation activities.
Companies in the territories of local initiative groups will also be supported with €28.6 million. They too will be able to invest in modern machinery, facilities, or equipment, as well as specialized software, leading to the creation of new or improved existing products.
Another €30 million will be allocated to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises for the development or production of clean and resource-efficient technologies of critical importance. Under this procedure, investments that contribute to strengthening value creation chains will also be eligible.
In 2026, MIG will continue to support the introduction of green technologies in production. Through the integrated territorial investments (ITI) approach, nearly €83 million will be provided to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises for the purchase of new equipment, machinery, and facilities. With these, companies must reduce waste, optimize the use of raw materials, increase product durability, etc. Expenses for specialized software and other types of intangible assets (patents, licenses, or know-how) will also be eligible.
