EU grants 2026: up to 200,000 EUR for SME digitalisation in the Centre Region
In 2026, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the counties of Brașov, Sibiu, Alba, Covasna, Harghita and Mureș will have access to a new funding call through the Centre Regional Programme 2021-2027.
Todos & Company editorial team · EU funding consultancy since 2006
The context of funding for SME digitalisation in the Centre Region
In 2026, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the counties of Brașov, Sibiu, Alba, Covasna, Harghita and Mureș will have access to a new funding call under the Centre Regional Programme 2021-2027. It aims to support investment in digitalisation, including advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality. The proposed grants range from 15,000 to 200,000 euro, offering a relevant opportunity for non-IT firms that want to boost their competitiveness and efficiency through innovative technologies.
This initiative is part of a broader European Union effort to catalyse the digital transformation of the private sector, a fundamental pillar of the smart and sustainable development strategy for the regions.
Who the eligible beneficiaries are and what the funding priorities are
The main beneficiaries are non-IT SMEs, that is, firms in sectors such as industry, agriculture, tourism, trade and services that want to implement digital solutions to optimise their processes and innovate their products or services. This is crucial, because the funds are not aimed directly at IT companies, but at businesses that can integrate digital technologies into their operational workflow.
The investments eligible for funding include the development and implementation of systems based on artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, cloud platforms, automation solutions, the digitalisation of production or service processes, and the development of new ways of interacting with customers through digitalisation.
These priorities reflect the pressing need to adapt to an increasingly technology-driven and competitive economic environment, where innovation is becoming a decisive driver of growth and sustainability.
What the eligibility conditions and key criteria for accessing the funds are
In addition to the geographical criterion – activity carried out in the counties of the Centre Region – firms must be SMEs as defined by the EU (that is, they must have fewer than 250 employees and an annual turnover below 50 million euro or a balance sheet total below 43 million euro).
Applicants will have to demonstrate the feasibility and sustainability of the proposed projects, highlighting the impact of digitalisation on operational efficiency and competitiveness. Standard supporting documents are also important, such as the registration certificate, recent financial statements, the technical documentation for the investment and, in some cases, partner agreements or contracts for implementation.
Firms must prepare clear, solid documentation that justifies the need for the investment, its alignment with European and regional priorities, and the plan for using the funds obtained for digitalisation.
The impact of digitalisation on SMEs in the Centre Region
Digitalisation enables SMEs to increase productivity, reduce operating costs and access new markets or create innovative sales channels. In the counties of the Centre Region, which have a diversified economy, this transformation can accelerate the development of local businesses while helping to consolidate the counties as regional poles of economic growth.
Digital innovations, such as using artificial intelligence to automate processes or virtual reality for training and simulation, add value. This helps SMEs respond more quickly to market demands and handle competitive challenges more effectively.
What companies need to prepare and what to watch out for
- Project documentation: clear project proposals with concrete objectives, well-defined performance indicators and a realistic budget.
- Strict eligibility: careful checking of the required criteria to avoid rejection at the formal evaluation stage.
- Implementation planning: setting a realistic timetable for the investment and ensuring the necessary technical and managerial support.
- Specialist consultancy: can be useful for optimising your application file and meeting all the programme's requirements.
- Post-award sustainability: demonstrating that the investment will deliver results in the medium and long term, including through maintenance and training plans.
SMEs should consult the final applicant's guide for the call and follow the official publication deadlines in order to prepare their application. Accessing these funds is a chance to secure a competitive advantage in an increasingly digitalised and demanding market.
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.
