How Romanian SMEs can access PNRR funds for digitalisation
The National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) is one of the most extensive European funding programmes for the modernisation of Romania, with an emphasis on digital technologies, development…
Todos & Company editorial team · EU funding consultancy since 2006
The context of PNRR funding and SME digitalisation
The National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) is one of the most extensive European funding programmes aimed at modernising Romania, with a focus on digital technologies, sustainable development and structural reforms. A key part of this plan is supporting SMEs, an essential pillar of the national economy, in adopting digital technologies that can radically transform their competitiveness and efficiency. A concrete example is the recent project implemented by S.C. Titi Aur S.R.L., which received a grant of up to 100,000 euro through call PNRR/2022/C9/MIPE/I3, the scheme dedicated to SME digitalisation.
Who the eligible beneficiaries are and which technologies they can adopt
The grants are aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises active on the Romanian market, particularly those that want to implement innovative digital solutions. These technologies may include, but are not limited to, the automation of operational processes, the implementation of ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software, the digitalisation of the supply chain, advanced customer relationship management (CRM) systems, e-commerce platforms, and solutions that facilitate remote working and cybersecurity. PNRR grants aim to promote the adoption of technologies that increase operational efficiency and, in turn, competitiveness on the market.
Key eligibility conditions and required documentation
To access the funds, companies must meet a clear set of conditions: they must be SMEs under the European definition, be registered and economically active in Romania, and present a feasible project that includes a clear digitalisation component. The documents requested include a business plan adapted to digitalisation, quotes from technology suppliers, financial statements and other documents certifying the legality and viability of the entity.
The project must also be aligned with the PNRR objectives of sustainable growth and administrative reform, and the company must provide a minimum co-financing, in line with the specific requirements of the call. The beneficiary must demonstrate that implementing the digital solutions will have a significant impact on competitiveness, productivity growth and adaptability in the medium and long term.
Market impact and competitive advantages
The digitalisation of SMEs is not just a trend but a necessity in a globalised economy. By adopting digital technologies, we can see immediate positive effects in cost optimisation, faster decision-making based on relevant data, and far more efficient resource management. It also opens access to new markets through e-commerce and innovative services. Businesses that have started the digitalisation process are much more resilient in the face of economic crises and more attractive to investors and strategic partners.
The project carried out by Titi Aur S.R.L. is a telling example of how a traditional company can take the step towards sustainable development by integrating digital technologies, automating processes and optimising the value chain. It opens a clear path for other companies to access similar financial support and adapt to market requirements.
What companies need to prepare and what to watch out for
Entrepreneurs interested in accessing these funds should begin with a rigorous internal assessment of their digitalisation needs, identify the processes with automation potential and clearly define their short- and long-term objectives. We recommend working with consultants who specialise in EU funds and information technology to develop competitive and feasible projects.
The documentation must be prepared carefully, in compliance with all the requirements of the PNRR call, and companies should be prepared for rigorous checks and for monitoring of the investment's impact. Particular attention should be paid to submission deadlines, evaluation criteria and implementation conditions, in order to maximise the chances of success.
In a rapidly changing economic environment, accessing such grants can be a decisive moment for business growth. Digitalisation is no longer an option but a strategic necessity for the survival and long-term development of SMEs in Romania.
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.
