The Ministry of Economy is funding the operationalisation of DMOs in Romania with 10 million euro
The Ministry of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism launched on 16 March 2026 a call for proposals with a total value of 10 million euro, dedicated to supporting the operationalisation…
Todos & Company editorial team · EU funding consultancy since 2006
Context and importance of funding for DMOs
On 16 March 2026, the Ministry of Economy, Digitalisation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism launched a call for proposals with a total value of 10 million euro, dedicated to supporting the operationalisation of Destination Management Organisations (DMOs). This initiative follows government policies for developing tourism and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem by strengthening the structures that manage integrated tourist destinations.
Destination Management Organisations play a key role in promoting and developing local tourism by coordinating strategies, attracting investment, promoting services and facilitating collaboration between market players. The funding offered is essential for turning these structures into functional entities, capable of developing competitive tourist destinations through modern and sustainable management models.
Who can access these funds and eligibility conditions
The eligible beneficiaries of the call are mainly DMOs, which must demonstrate that they are organised in accordance with national legislation and have a clear operationalisation plan. Other conditions include the capacity to run projects funded from EU or national funds, transparency in managing funds, and adequate administrative and technical skills.
Other associated entities, such as public-private partnerships with a role in developing local or regional tourism, may be involved, but direct funding is aimed at the institutions that provide integrated destination management. This type of funding is not intended for individual tourism companies, but for the structure that provides support and coordination for the entire local tourism ecosystem.
Documentation and steps required to apply
Applicants must prepare extensive documentation that includes: a diagnosis of the DMO's current situation, a detailed plan of activities for operationalisation, a clearly justified budget, the implementation timetable, and evidence of administrative capacity. It is also mandatory to present a mechanism for collaboration with local tourism stakeholders and a strategy for attracting investment or sustainable partnerships.
In addition to managerial and strategic plans, applications must meet the eligibility criteria relating to legality, finance and tax, in line with European and national regulations. DMOs are advised to have solid partnerships and support from local authorities and the private sector to increase their chances of success.
Expected impact on tourism and entrepreneurship
The operationalisation of the funded DMOs translates into the development of tourist destinations that can attract more visitors and stimulate the growth of local businesses in areas such as hospitality, gastronomy, transport and leisure. Professional destination management will create a more predictable and more attractive business climate for investors, thereby facilitating entrepreneurs' access to external markets and new opportunities.
In addition, providing DMOs with financial and administrative resources makes it possible to implement effective marketing programmes, develop themed destinations and increase regional and national visibility. This is an important step towards turning Romanian tourism into a competitive sector, firmly anchored in European trends of sustainability and innovation.
What applicants need to prepare and what to watch out for
Entrepreneurs involved in DMOs, or who wish to support projects to transform tourist destinations, must ensure that funding applications are complete, correctly prepared and reflect the reality of the local environment. A rigorous assessment of needs and coherent strategic planning that mobilises all available resources are essential.
Applicants must pay attention to the technical eligibility criteria, check the submission deadlines and comply with the formal requirements on partnerships and financial transparency. Specialist EU funding consultancy thus becomes a valuable ally in maximising the chances of approval and ensuring correct and efficient implementation.
I recommend that the entrepreneurs and institutions involved constantly monitor the official information issued by the Ministry of Economy, so as to stay up to date with any changes or additions, and prepare in good time a realistic plan for carrying out the activities after obtaining the funding.
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.
