European Funds – what support can you get to start and grow your business?

Support for people with a business idea

Let’s start with the good news. If you have an innovative business idea, but lack the knowledge, experience or resources to get started, there are programs to help you get to market. One of them is Startup platforms for new ideas. This is an excellent option for people who want to turn their vision into a viable business. Startup platforms offer comprehensive support in turning your idea into a product (product or service). From consulting, to helping you refine your business model, to the possibility of getting a startup grant.

Each startup that is accepted into the program will participate in an individual development process – tailored to its needs and led by a project mentor. Startups will receive free space to work, legal assistance, accounting, tax advice and marketing support, among other things. They will also be able to perfect the technology of their product and benefit from experts who will help refine the product and business model. The best ones will have a chance for a non-refundable grant – for first sales and further development.

How to grow an already existing business?

Are you already running a business and want to expand? Great! European funds are not only support for start-ups. There are many opportunities to help you finance innovation, purchase equipment or expand into foreign markets.

If you want to grow your business by investing in research and innovation, the SMART Path is worth looking into. This is an excellent solution if you are planning to introduce new technologies, automate production or modernize services. This way you can not only increase the competitiveness of your company, but also attract new customers and investors.

Under the SMART Track, you can currently apply for funding for projects that will help solve the problems of people with special needs – this is the SMART Track “Accessibility” thematic call. And starting May 6, you can apply in the SMART Path general call.

Or maybe you dream of international development? If so, check out the competition offer Brand promotion of innovative SMEs. Funding allows you to participate in trade fairs and conferences abroad, so you can present your products and services to the global market. This is an ideal opportunity to establish business contacts and gain new customers.

Or do you have a company operating in tourism or related industries in Eastern Poland? Do you run, for example, a catering establishment, accommodation facility, sports equipment rental? You can finance investments in, among other things, the expansion of accommodation and catering facilities, infrastructure (sports, recreation, tourism, culture), transportation of tourists, but also the offer of organic products, regional and traditional products, and the restoration of handicrafts and handicrafts thanks to EU funds. You can obtain up to PLN 1 million in loans, with an interest rate of 2% per year and a maximum repayment period of 7 years, under the Loans for tourism development. The main advantage of the loan is that it is tailored to the specifics of the tourism industry and can take into account the seasonal nature of the business in the installment schedule.

Not just money – free support for entrepreneurial people

Remember that European Funds are not only grants. You can also take advantage of free services to help you evaluate your idea and prepare to apply for support.

If you are unsure whether your innovative project has a chance of funding, use the tool STEP – Preliminary Verification of Project Idea. It’s a free solution that will help you see if it’s worth applying for funds.

On the other hand, if you want to develop your company’s innovation, but have no experience in this area, as well as in obtaining European funds, use the service of the Innovation Coach. This is a free consulting service that will help you better understand the process of innovation in your company and choose the best solutions for your business.

And don’t forget about the European Funds Information Points, where you can take advantage of free consultations. Specialists will help you find the right support program and guide you through the process of applying for EU funds.

This is your time – reach for European funds and develop your business!

Everyone has great potential for action. Whether you are just starting out in business or want to expand an existing company – European Funds are for you. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support and take advantage of available opportunities. Your business deserves to grow and you deserve to succeed. Check out the available opportunities and get started today!

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