Support for Medium-Sized and Large Enterprises in Strategic Technologies for Europe (STEP) and Defence & Security Sectors (Defence)

The new Action “Support for Medium-Sized and Large Enterprises in Strategic Technologies for Europe (STEP) and Defence & Security Sectors” under the “Competitiveness 2021–2027” Programme has been officially pre-published.

This action focuses on supporting large-scale investment projects outside the Region of Attica, aiming to foster the development of cutting-edge technologies, strengthen the defence industry, and promote dual-use products and applications.

Financial Details & Funding Rates

Eligible Project Budget: From €2,000,000 up to €6,000,000 per investment project.

Grant Rates

Medium-Sized Enterprises

60% for the STEP sector 50% for the Defence sector

Large Enterprises

50% for the STEP sector 40% for the Defence sector

Key Eligibility Requirements

The action is addressed to existing Medium-Sized and Large Enterprises that meet the following conditions:

Initial Investment Requirement: The project must exclusively concern an initial investment creating new economic activity, such as establishing a new facility or diversifying into a non-related business activity, and must be implemented outside the Region of Attica.
Eligible Business Activity Code (KAD): The enterprise must possess the relevant KAD before the electronic submission date.
Employment Requirement (AWU): At least one (1) Annual Work Unit (AWU) of dependent employment during the previous calendar year (verified through the ERGANI Information System).
Investment Retention Commitment: The investment must remain in the specific region for at least:

5 years for Large Enterprises, 3 years for Medium-Sized Enterprises

Non-Relocation Commitment: Large enterprises must confirm that no relocation to the specific infrastructure took place during the previous two years and commit not to relocate for two years after project completion.

Indicative Investment Sectors & Activities

1. Defence & Security Sector (DEFENCE)

Cyber Defence & Information Security
Threat intelligence
Defence network security
Artificial Intelligence (AI) for decision-making
Electronic Warfare technologies
Systems & Technologies
Autonomous systems and UAVs (Drones)
Radar systems
Satellite communications
Underwater technologies
Command & Control systems (C4ISR)
Defence Industrial Base & Dual-Use Technologies
Dual-use technologies
Defence supply chain solutions
Advanced materials (ballistic protection)
3D Printing for defence applications
Specialized certifications
Training & Human Factors
Simulation & Training systems
CBRN protection
Crisis management technologies

2. Strategic Technologies for Europe (STEP)

Digital & Deep Technologies
Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AI/ML)
Blockchain
Microelectronics & Semiconductors
Quantum technologies
Cloud & Edge Computing
Robotics & Industry 4.0
5G networks
Clean & Green Technologies
Renewable Energy Systems (RES)
Energy storage systems & batteries
Hydrogen technologies
Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage (CCUS)
Circular Economy solutions
Electromobility
Biotechnology & Health
Biomanufacturing
Biological pharmaceutical production
Digital Health (MedTech)
Agricultural biotechnology
Defence Technologies (STEP)
Air defence systems
Missiles and ammunition
Precision strike systems
Space critical infrastructure protection

Eligible Expense Categories

The eligibility start date is defined as the electronic submission date of the application.

Main eligible expenses include:

Construction, modernization of buildings and facilities, and landscaping works
Purchase of modern machinery, instruments, and transport equipment
Software expenses, specialized consulting services, and certifications
Promotion, networking, and participation in exhibitions
Renewable Energy (RES) investments for covering the operational needs of the facility

About Entec Consultants

The successful submission of projects of this scale (up to €6 million) requires advanced technical expertise, strategic planning, and excellent knowledge of the evaluation criteria. The team at Entec Consultants possesses the experience and specialized know-how required to guide your business through every stage of the process from eligibility assessment and investment planning to final submission and implementation monitoring.

For more information and an initial evaluation of your investment project, please contact us.