On 12 March 2026, at TRIA SPACE – Central Park Burgas, DIGIHUB held a practical workshop dedicated to the funding opportunities for manufacturing enterprises under the procedure BG16RFPR001-1.010 “New Models in Manufacturing for SMEs”.
The event brought together representatives of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises planning investments in new products, services or manufacturing processes and seeking clarity regarding the requirements and steps for successful application.
During the meeting, participants received structured information about the opportunities for grant funding of up to €400,000, as well as practical guidance for preparing project proposals.
Clear presentation of the programme and application process
The main presentation was delivered by Nebi Kehaya – Project Manager of DIGIHUB, who presented the key parameters of the procedure, the eligible applicants and the specific steps for submitting an application through the ISUN system.
During the session, participants received answers to the most frequently asked questions from businesses, including:
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how to define a “new model in manufacturing”;
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what investments can be financed – machines, equipment, software and technologies;
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which costs are most often considered ineligible;
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how to clearly describe the “before/after” concept in the project proposal;
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how to structure the project budget and activities.
The presentation by Nebi Kehaya can be viewed here:
Presentation – “New Models in Manufacturing”
From idea to implementation – what can actually be financed
In the second part of the event, Hristo Kovachev – Sales Manager at DIGIHUB presented practical examples of investments and solutions that can be supported under the programme.
Participants reviewed real scenarios for implementing new manufacturing models, including:
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automation of manufacturing processes;
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implementation of new equipment and technologies;
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improving product quality;
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optimization and acceleration of production cycles.
Participants were also introduced to the opportunity to receive support from DIGIHUB in the preparation of project proposals, as well as during the implementation of technological solutions after project approval.
Practical discussion and individual questions from businesses
The final part of the meeting was dedicated to an open discussion, where participants had the opportunity to present specific ideas and investment plans from their enterprises.
DIGIHUB experts provided guidance on:
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the eligibility of project ideas;
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how to properly justify investments in the project;
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preparation of the required application documentation.
The discussion focused on the real challenges faced by manufacturing companies – how to formulate innovation within the project, how to avoid common mistakes and how to structure the investment so that it meets the programme’s evaluation criteria.
DIGIHUB – a partner of businesses in innovation and digitalisation
The event confirmed the strong interest of manufacturing companies in the opportunities for financing technological investments and implementing new manufacturing models.
Through such practical events, DIGIHUB continues to support businesses in Southeast Bulgaria with expert knowledge, consulting services and access to European programmes aimed at increasing competitiveness, digitalisation and innovation in enterprises.
