MIPE announces 292 calls for funding for 2026, 43 of them dedicated to SMEs
The Ministry of Investments and European Projects (MIPE) has recently published the indicative calendar of calls for proposals for 2026, indicating the launch of 292 funding calls.
Todos & Company editorial team · EU funding consultancy since 2006
The context of EU programmes and the role of MIPE
The Ministry of Investments and European Projects (MIPE) has recently published the indicative calendar of calls for proposals for 2026, announcing the launch of 292 funding calls. Of these, 43 are aimed exclusively at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a segment that is essential to the Romanian economy. The announcement comes at an important moment, when Romania must make the most of the EU funds available through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), the Regional Operational Programme (POR) and other complementary programmes to stimulate economic growth and innovation.
Who can apply and which projects are eligible
SMEs from a wide range of sectors, from industry, services, technology and agriculture to the green economy and digitalisation, will find a rich offer of dedicated calls designed to support strategic investments and adaptation to the demands of the modern market. Innovative start-ups are covered, as are somewhat more established firms with clear plans for medium- and long-term development.
Besides SMEs, a significant share of the 292 calls targets public administrations, non-governmental organisations, cultural institutions and entities in the education and health sectors, each with specific lines designed to cover various development needs and priorities at regional and national level.
Documentation and access conditions
To prepare a solid application, companies need to focus on rigorous documentation: coherent business plans, proof of cost eligibility, relevant certifications, impact studies and technical feasibility studies, including sustainability and innovation strategies. Access to EU funds requires compliance with strict criteria on the eligibility of beneficiaries, such as legal form, size, field of activity and stage of the project.
It is also important to follow the launch calendar, as calls have clearly defined opening and closing periods. Planning the entire application process in good time is a competitive advantage. Carefully checking the funding guides issued for each specific call is essential to avoid errors and the rejection of applications.
The expected impact on Romanian SMEs
The funds allocated to SMEs through these calls have the potential to accelerate digitalisation, increase production capacity, modernise equipment and reduce environmental impact. Sectors such as information technology, the circular economy and manufacturing can benefit directly, thereby strengthening the position of SMEs on the domestic and international markets.
Another important effect will be the creation of new jobs, the professional training of employees and the opening up of new markets. With EU funding, companies can become more competitive and more resilient in the face of global economic challenges.
What companies need to prepare and what to watch out for
- Constantly monitoring the official websites, in particular those of MIPE and the bodies involved in implementing EU programmes.
- Preparing a complete file with the mandatory documents, including validated financial statements, tax returns, and tax and legal certificates.
- Consulting the funding guides for each call and clearly understanding the conditions and selection criteria.
- Allocating internal resources or turning to specialised consultants for help with writing and submitting projects, to increase your chances of success.
- Planning the budget and the investment timetable in line with the eligible deadlines.
- Carefully checking that initial and subsequent costs comply with EU funding rules.
Entrepreneurs must be prepared to invest time and resources in the application process, but the results can radically transform their potential for growth and adaptation to a globalised, sustainable economy. 2026 will be a year of real opportunities for Romanian companies that manage their access to EU funds intelligently.
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.
