By adopting eco-friendly and digital solutions across production, operations, administration, marketing, and sales, businesses can reduce their environmental impact while enhancing and market appeal. Embrace these efficiency strategies to position your company at the forefront of the green economy. Embrace these strategies to position your company at the forefront of the green economy.
OUTBOUND LOGISTICS
Activities involved in converting the inputs into finished products and services. This includes manufacturing, assembling, packaging and testing.
National grants are government-backed financial supports designed to encourage business growth, innovation and economic development within a specific country. Unlike loans, grants are typically non-repayable, making them an attractive funding source for startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and organizations working on projects that align with national priorities.
Governments use grants to support key industries such as technology, renewable energy, healthcare, research & development and social enterprises. These funds can help businesses cover expenses like product development, expansion, hiring, sustainability initiatives and digital transformation.
Where Can You Apply for National Grants?
National grants are usually available through government agencies, ministries and public institutions that oversee business development, innovation and industry growth. The best ways to track available grants include:
Official government websites (e.g., national ministries of economy, innovation, or trade),
Business support agencies and development funds,
Chambers of commerce and industry associations,
Public grant databases and funding portals,
EU or regional funding bodies (for countries within the European Union).
How to Apply?
Applying for national grants often requires a detailed business proposal, including a clear project description, expected impact and financial planning. Some grants may require co-financing, meaning businesses need to contribute a percentage of the project’s total cost; this means a grant might cover 60–80% of costs, while the applicant must fund the remaining amount.
Why Consider National Grants?
National grants offer non-repayable funds that help businesses scale without incurring debt, while the government-backed credibility can attract additional investors. Many grant programs also provide access to industry networks and expert mentorship, offering valuable support for innovation and sustainability projects aligned with national economic strategies. For SMEs and startups, these grants represent a vital funding opportunity to develop innovative projects, drive long-term business success and contribute to the country’s economic and technological advancement.
Slovenian Enterprise Fund (Slovenski podjetniški sklad - SPS) - Slovenia
The Slovenian Enterprise Fund (SPS) is a national funding body that provides financial support to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Slovenia. It offers a mix of grants, seed capital, microloans and venture capital to boost innovation, growth and competitiveness. Notable grant schemes include support for innovative startups through the “P2” program, which funds the development of MVPs and market validation. SPS also runs accelerator and scale-up programs that combine mentoring with financial incentives. Its aim is to strengthen entrepreneurship and help Slovenian companies succeed domestically and globally.
FFG (Austrian Research Promotion Agency) - Austria
The FFG is Austria’s national funding agency for industrial research and innovation, supporting businesses, universities, and research institutions. It offers a wide range of grants covering applied research, technology development, and market-oriented innovation. Key programs include “Basisprogramm” (Basic Program) for company R&D and “Bridge” for collaborative research between science and industry. FFG supports startups, SMEs, and large enterprises, often with co-financing models. The agency also facilitates participation in international programs like Horizon Europe.
HAMAG-BICRO (Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovation and Investments) - Croatia
HAMAG-BICRO is the national agency in Croatia that supports entrepreneurship, innovation, and SME growth through grants, guarantees, and financial instruments. It offers innovation grants through programs such as the “Proof of Concept” and co-financing R&D projects. The agency focuses on encouraging commercialization of innovations, technology transfer, and startup development. HAMAG-BICRO also manages EU structural funds for business support. It’s a key partner for Croatian businesses seeking to innovate and grow.
The National Innovation Fund (NIF) is a Bulgarian government program managed by the Bulgarian Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion Agency (BSMEPA). It supports innovation projects focused on creating new or significantly improved products, processes, or services. Grants are awarded to SMEs and research organizations working individually or in partnership, with funding covering R&D costs, staff, and equipment. Priority is given to high-tech industries and sectors with export potential. The fund aims to boost Bulgaria’s technological competitiveness and reduce the innovation gap with the EU.
National Research, Development and Innovation Fund (NRDI Fund) - Hungary
The NRDI Fund is Hungary’s core national funding mechanism for research, development, and innovation, managed by the National Research, Development and Innovation Office (NKFIH). It finances basic research, applied research, and industrial R&D through various competitive calls. Programs include support for university–industry collaboration, startup R&D, and large-scale industrial innovation. The fund is 100% public and aligns with Hungary’s national innovation strategy and smart specialization goals. It’s the main driver of science and tech development in the country.
