Digi IMM Grants: Opportunities and a Practical Guide to Digitalising Businesses in Romania
The Digi IMM programme is part of Romania's strategic response to the need to accelerate digitalisation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a segment that is essential to the economy…
Todos & Company editorial team · EU funding consultancy since 2006
The context of the Digi IMM Programme and the importance of digitalisation
The Digi IMM Programme is part of Romania's strategic response to the need to accelerate digitalisation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a segment that is essential to the national economy. Supported by funds provided under the PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan), this grant offers up to 100,000 euro, intended to drive the digital transformation of businesses, increase competitiveness and extend companies' presence on domestic and international markets.
Recently, the MIPE (Ministry of Investments and European Projects) held an online consultation session, where entrepreneurs and consultants involved in projects funded through Digi IMM were able to engage directly with the officials responsible. This transparent and collaborative approach adds value to the programme, clarifying key issues for applicants and facilitating the correct implementation of projects.
Who are the eligible beneficiaries and what is the profile of the funded projects?
The Digi IMM Programme is aimed primarily at small and medium-sized enterprises based in Romania that wish to implement innovative digital solutions. Eligibility covers companies from various sectors, such as retail, manufacturing, services or tourism, provided that they have a clear digitalisation plan. For example, companies investing in bespoke software solutions, e-commerce platforms, IT management tools or the automation of internal processes can access the funding.
SMEs must demonstrate their growth potential through digitalisation and the foreseeable positive impact on the business. Last but not least, projects that integrate modern digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence or Big Data, are encouraged as an element of sustainable growth.
The essential documents and conditions for a correct application
Interested companies must prepare a series of standard and programme-specific documents that demonstrate compliance with the eligibility criteria and the feasibility of the investment. The most important include:
- The registration certificate and recent financial statements;
- An updated business plan that justifies the need for digitalisation and the project's objectives;
- A market study and an analysis of the risks associated with implementation;
- Technical documentation detailing the proposed digital solutions;
- Proof of the company's mandatory co-financing;
- Other documents required depending on the specifics of the investment, such as partnership agreements or software licences.
Entrepreneurs are advised to work with specialist consultants to avoid common errors when completing the application file, which can delay or lead to the exclusion of the application.
The impact of digitalisation through Digi IMM on Romanian SMEs
The challenges of the local and global market require SMEs to adapt quickly to technological trends. Digitalisation supported by these grants provides a long-term competitive edge, reducing operating costs, creating new sales channels and improving internal management.
The experience of companies that have already accessed similar grants points to an average increase in turnover and a stronger market position. Digitalisation also helps create more flexible and attractive working environments for employees, with positive effects on productivity and staff retention.
What companies need to prepare and what to watch out for
Companies must pay close attention both when preparing the application file and when carrying out the project. The recommendations for maximising your chances of success are:
- Notify your intention to take part in the online consultation sessions promptly, in order to benefit from clarifications and tailored solutions;
- Carefully check the eligibility criteria and the required documentation, to avoid non-compliance;
- Work with experts in EU funds and digitalisation, who can provide support both in preparing the file and in implementing the investment;
- Plan a realistic budget and secure the necessary co-financing;
- Monitor the stages of the evaluation process and meet the reporting and expense-justification deadlines.
Active participation in the consultations organised by MIPE is a valuable opportunity for applicant companies to understand the nuances of the programme and to adjust their digitalisation strategies so that they meet the funder's requirements.
Want to find out what non-refundable funding you can access?
The Todos Company team helps you with the whole process: from checking eligibility and calculating your score, to preparing the application file and submitting the project.
