The focus is on smart transformation, support for research and development, and building a green and digital economy. Under the annual development program, numerous funding schemes will be launched – relevant not only for Bulgarian beneficiaries but also for international partners such as Hungarian companies, universities, and consultants. The development program outlines in detail the available schemes, funding allocations, and eligible activities.
1. Scientific Research and Innovation (Total budget: EUR 57,8 million)
The “Scientific Research, Innovation and Digitalization for Smart Transformation” program aims to strengthen the R&D ecosystem:
- Support for HORIZON Teaming and ERA Chairs (WIDERA 2023): Bulgarian research institutes can count on support from European partners with successful Horizon Europe project experience.
- ERA Chairs program: Offers up to 100% funding to attract top researchers and build research teams.
- Hydrogen Valley project: Led by the University of Thrace (Stara Zagora), this initiative aims to introduce hydrogen-based technologies with a budget of EUR 8 million.
2. Green and Digital Transition (EUR 30,35 million)
- Green and digital partnerships: SMEs can jointly apply with research institutes and universities to test and develop innovative solutions and business models.
- Eligible activities: Prototype development, technology validation, competitive analysis, business planning, IPR protection – a wide range of opportunities are available.
3. Knowledge and Technology Transfer
- Industrial cooperation and cluster development: Up to EUR 86 million available for consortia implementing industrial R&D programs and establishing regional technology networks.
- Support for innovation clusters: Aims to strengthen active regional clusters, encourage knowledge sharing, and attract new members.
4. Regional Knowledge Development and Digital Excellence Programs
- Regional research support: Scientific organizations in less developed regions receive targeted support for applied research, particularly within the framework of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Smart Specialization Strategy. Funding covers 100% of costs, with a total budget of EUR 39,1 million.
- Participation in European partnerships: Bulgarian business and research networks can access EUR 40 million to encourage participation in Horizon Europe partnership projects.
- Seal of Excellence – national funding: Bulgarian innovative companies awarded the EIC Seal of Excellence receive national co-financing based on their original project proposals.
- Digital Europe – phased financing: In addition to co-financing existing DEP projects (e.g. CitiVerse, DeployEMDS), new projects led by Bulgarian research institutions can also enter the national co-financing framework. The co-funding rate typically ranges from 50% to 100%.
5. Digital Infrastructure and Public Service Development
- Data-driven services and digital transformation in the public sector: EUR 101,5 million is allocated to support the creation of data platforms, software development, and training within the public sector.
- Cybersecurity: Multiple projects focus on building cybersecurity capacity, with a total budget of EUR 75 million, including:
- Centralized security systems for energy companies
- Development of the State Agency for National Security (DANS)
- Cybersecurity training for small enterprises and public administration
The Bulgarian annual work program for 2025 offers a wide range of opportunities for digital transformation in science, business, and public administration. For Hungarian participants, calls that promote international partnerships, European networking, or technological cooperation are particularly valuable. Whether it’s R&D, cluster development, or digital innovation – it is worth monitoring and proactively engaging with the Bulgarian development frameworks.
For more information or consultation, please fill out our contact form.