UPDATE: Microenterprises in the Bucharest-Ilfov region have launched a massive funding push, submitting a staggering 960 applications totaling 799.95 million lei under the Regional Operational Program (ROP) 2021-2027. This urgent demand far exceeds the 187.25 million lei allocated by Brussels, raising concerns about financing availability.
Authorities at the Bucharest-Ilfov Regional Development Agency (ADBRI) report that applications include 592 from Bucharest and 368 from Ilfov County, with projects primarily in the medical field, particularly dental practices, as well as software, engineering, and advertising industries. The urgent need for funding underscores the competitive landscape as these microenterprises strive to innovate amidst economic challenges.
Simona Curpăn, Head of the Regional Promotion Service at ADBRI, confirmed that 330 applications have already been evaluated, with ongoing assessments expected to conclude by September. The results will be published on the ADBRI website, where the public can see which projects will receive funding.
Curpăn emphasized the possibility of appealing for increased allocations if any high-scoring projects are identified that bring significant value. “I cannot estimate when the first contracts will be signed, but we hope it will be as soon as possible,” she stated during a recent press conference outlining the eight regional priorities for the current financing period.
The overall budget for the ROP 2021-2027 in the Bucharest-Ilfov region is set at €1.46 billion. However, ADBRI officials warn that the funding for most priorities is insufficient compared to the overwhelming number of requests. For instance, 66 applications seeking funding for residential energy efficiency projects total 3.24 billion lei, dwarfing the available allocation of 485.15 million lei by 669.2%.
Similar discrepancies are noted in green infrastructure projects, where ten submitted applications worth 320.4 million lei are vying for just 111.98 million lei, representing a shortfall of 286.14%. The Ilfov County Council’s request for the rehabilitation of county roads exceeds a billion lei, yet only 186.61 million lei is earmarked for this initiative—over 540% less than required.
Currently, ADBRI has signed 63 financing contracts but aims to significantly increase this number by the end of 2025. This is crucial, as it will enable timely disbursement of funds to kickstart project implementations. Notably, only 40% of the financing for projects under the ROP will come from European funds, with the remaining 60% sourced from state budgets and beneficiaries, reflecting the region’s economic status.
As the deadline for application evaluations approaches, microenterprises and stakeholders remain on high alert, hoping for swift action from authorities to address the significant funding gap. The outcome of this process will undoubtedly shape the future of innovation and competitiveness in the Bucharest-Ilfov region.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
