Open Call for Proposals “Implementation of Innovations in SMEs in the Territory of Local Action Groups (LAGs)” (BG16RFPR001-1.011)
General Information about the Procedure
On July 10, 2026, the call for proposals “Implementation of Innovations in SMEs in the Territory of Local Action Groups (LAGs)” was opened for applications, with reference number BG16RFPR001-1.011. The procedure is funded by the Ministry of Innovation and Digital Transformation under the “Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises” Programme 2021–2027 (CIEP) and is aimed at enterprises operating in the territory of Local Action Groups (LAGs) with approved Community-Led Local Development (CLLD) strategies that include complementary funding under CIEP.
The total budget of the procedure is nearly EUR 20 million, allocated among enterprises from the territories of 51 local action groups across the country.
Objective of the Procedure
The main objective is to provide support to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for the implementation of innovations based on new or improved products and/or business processes. The aim is to increase the innovation activity and competitiveness of local enterprises, with priority given to projects for implementing smart solutions and products oriented towards new technologies.
Amount of Grant Funding
- Minimum amount: EUR 15,000
- Maximum amount: up to EUR 102,500
- Co-financing intensity: up to 75% of the total project value
Eligible Applicants
Eligible to apply are micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that:
- are traders within the meaning of the Commerce Act or the Cooperatives Act;
- were registered no later than 31.12.2023;
- meet minimum revenue requirements for the period 2023–2025 (micro and small enterprises — at least BGN 50,000; medium-sized enterprises — at least BGN 200,000);
- operate in the territory of a LAG with an approved CLLD strategy that includes complementary funding under CIEP, and are applying for support for activities to be carried out in that territory.
Important note: micro-enterprises are eligible only in settlements located within urban municipalities.
Eligible Territory for the Gabrovo Region
For the Gabrovo region, the eligible territory is that of Local Action Group “Dryanovo – Tryavna – in the Heart of the Balkan”, covering the municipalities of Dryanovo and Tryavna, with an approved CLLD strategy for the 2023–2027 programming period.
Application Periods
Two separate application windows are envisaged:
- First window: until 16:30 on 14.09.2026
- Second window: from 14.01.2027 to 15.03.2027
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted entirely electronically, through the Information System for Management and Monitoring of EU Funds (ISUN 2020):
🔗 https://eumis2020.government.bg
The full set of application guidelines, requirements and document templates is published on the website of the “Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises” Programme:
Recommendation for Applicants
Enterprises wishing to apply under this procedure are advised to contact the team of the relevant Local Action Group in advance (for the Gabrovo region — LAG “Dryanovo – Tryavna – in the Heart of the Balkan”) in order to obtain up-to-date information on the applicable measures, the priorities of the CLLD strategy for the respective territory, and the available budget under the complementary CIEP funding.
