EBEP proposes lowering minimum budget threshold for business support

The Chamber of Commerce and Craftsmen of Rhodope (EBEP) has submitted a proposal to the Eastern Macedonia and Thrace Regional Administration, requesting a modification to the "Support for Existing Businesses within the Smart Specialization Strategy (RIS3)" (Action RSO1.3.b) call.

As part of this proposal, EBEP has suggested lowering the minimum supported budget from €50,000 to €25,000.

This initiative aims to address the growing needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Rhodope region. Businesses in the area face numerous challenges, including high energy costs, digital transformation, cash flow difficulties, and limited consumer purchasing power. The current €50,000 threshold makes it difficult for smaller enterprises or those with more modest expansion plans to benefit from the support program.

By reducing the minimum budget requirement to €25,000, more businesses will be able to participate in the program and receive essential funding for modernization and development. This change is also expected to strengthen the local economy by enhancing the sustainability and competitiveness of small businesses.

EBEP continues to monitor the needs of its members closely and strives to develop solutions that support local entrepreneurship and long-term business viability. In this context, the Chamber calls on the Regional Administration to consider the proposal favorably and make funding more accessible and effective for businesses.