The new “Epicheiro Sterea” action has been officially announced and is being implemented under the Sterea Ellada Regional Programme 2021–2027.
With a total budget of €16 million and co-financing from the European Regional Development Fund, the programme aims to support the modernization of regional businesses, strengthen competitiveness, and promote the green transition.
Beneficiaries
Eligible beneficiaries are existing micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises operating within the Region of Central Greece, specifically in the areas of Boeotia, Evia, Evrytania, Fthiotida, and Phocis.
Eligible businesses must:
Have commenced operations with the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) before June 30, 2023. Have at least two completed fiscal years for 2023 and 2024. Operate in an eligible sector and submit an investment plan aligned with the National Smart Specialisation Strategy. Begin project implementation only after submitting the application. Funding Schemes
Applicants are required to select one of the following State Aid frameworks:
De Minimis Regulation Investment budget ranging from €30,000 to €400,000. Funding intensity of 70%, increasing to 75% for green investment projects. General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) Investment budget ranging from €200,000 to €800,000. Funding intensity ranging from 40% to 60%. Eligible Expenses
The programme supports expenses related to:
Equipment, including machinery, transport vehicles, and renewable energy systems. Building works, such as renovations and energy or water efficiency upgrades. Digital transformation, including ERP, CRM, e-shop platforms, and specialised software applications. Consulting services, certifications, branding, and marketing. Personnel and indirect costs, eligible only under the De Minimis scheme for the recruitment of one to three employees. Priority Sectors
Investment plans must fall within one of the following priority sectors:
Agri-food value chain. Materials, construction, and industry. Tourism, culture, and creative industries. Environment and circular economy. Digital technologies. Life sciences, health, and pharmaceuticals. Transport and logistics. Sustainable energy. Application Process
Applications must be submitted exclusively online through the Integrated State Aid Information System (OPSKE).
The submission period runs from May 18, 2026 at 13:00 until September 18, 2026 at 15:00.
The evaluation process is comparative, with a minimum qualifying score of 30 points.
The implementation period for approved investment projects is set at 24 months from the date of approval.
For the proper preparation of your application file, eligibility assessment, and the achievement of the highest possible evaluation score, the team at Entec Consultants is available to undertake the complete planning and support of your investment proposal.