For questions related to the event:
Due to the strong interest in the first edition of the event dedicated to the “New Models in Production” procedure, we are organizing a second session, where we will build further with even more practical insights and concrete examples.
If you missed the first event or would like to get a sense of the atmosphere and key highlights, you can see how it went here.
When: Tuesday, 28.04.2026, 9:30 – 12:40
Where: TRIA SPACE, Central Park, Burgas
Participation: free for EDIH DIGIHUB clients (with prior registration)
Who is it for: micro, small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises planning an investment in a new product/service or production process.
Procedure: BG16RFPR001-1.010 “New Models in Production for SMEs”, application via ISUN 2020 until 27.05.2026, 16:30.
Funding opportunity: up to EUR 400,000 grant for implementing a “new model in production” (new/improved product/service or new/improved process).
Link to official information in ISUN: link
EVENT
This event is designed specifically for manufacturing companies that want to take advantage of the “New Models in Production” programme but need clear answers and a concrete assessment of their chances of success.
Each participant will receive an individual eligibility report and preliminary scoring under the procedure, prepared by EDIH DIGIHUB experts.
Special highlight: As part of the event, an artificial intelligence solution by Fsas Technologies – a Fujitsu company will also be presented. The presentation topic is “Your data. Fully under your control. With your own artificial intelligence.”, showcasing the Fsas PrivateGPT solution – an approach to AI implementation that works with corporate data under full control and security.
We will cover the key questions that most often arise when preparing a project:
- Is our project suitable, or is it considered “too small a change”?
- What exactly can be funded – machines, equipment, software?
- What costs are most commonly rejected as ineligible?
- How should we describe the “before/after” idea so it is clear and acceptable during evaluation?
- How do you apply for the programme?
We will go through the conditions in a clear and accessible way, with practical examples and concrete preparation steps.
FUNDING
- Minimum grant amount: EUR 25,000
- Maximum grant amount:
- micro and small enterprises: up to EUR 250,000
- medium-sized enterprises: up to EUR 400,000
- Funding intensity: depending on the regime and region, up to 70% (regional exceptions apply – e.g. for Sofia-city, the percentage also depends on the regime (regional aid vs de minimis) and enterprise category.
- Additional limitations may apply depending on revenue size for 2022–2024.
WHAT IS FUNDED
The programme supports real transformation in production, for example:
- a new product or service that the company has not offered before;
- significant improvement of an existing product/service (functions, quality, characteristics);
- a new or improved production process (automation, efficiency, reduced defects, shorter cycle, etc.).
Important: this is not about “cosmetic” changes or routine replacements, but about implementing a new model that is actually operational within the enterprise by the end of the project.
ELIGIBLE COSTS
- Machinery, equipment and assets required for the new model
- Software, patents and licenses when directly necessary for implementation
(Costs must be directly related to the new model and properly justified in the project.)
BENEFITS OF PARTICIPATION
- Individual eligibility report + preliminary scoring based on the procedure criteria, prepared by EDIH DIGIHUB experts
- You will quickly understand whether you are an eligible applicant and whether your idea meets the requirements for a “new model” in production
- You will receive a clear preparation plan (what to collect and how to describe it)
- We will show you the common mistakes that lead to rejection
- Q&A with the opportunity to present a specific case from your company
SPEAKERS
- Nebi Kehaya – Project Manager, DIGIHUB
- Hristo Kovachev – Sales Manager, DIGIHUB
- Stoyan Nikolov – Head of Lab Complex, DIGIHUB
