Greece is launching a comprehensive framework of two investment incentive schemes designed to support investments in the sectors of Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), Defence and Security.
The programmes are aimed at companies already operating or planning to operate in Strategic Technology sectors, as well as in the Defence & Security industry. Particular emphasis is placed on investments related to defence manufacturing, advanced technologies and the development of dual-use products and technologies.
Through these schemes, eligible businesses can secure significant state funding for investments that contribute to technological innovation, industrial competitiveness, energy transition, digital transformation and Europe’s strategic autonomy.
Beneficiaries & Eligibility Requirements
Eligible companies must:
- Have completed at least one (1) full tax year, meaning they must have commenced operations no later than 31 December 2024.
- Employ at least one full-time employee during 2025.
- Hold the eligible business activity code(s) prior to the electronic submission of the application. Additionaly, the proposed investment must exclusively concern eligible and funded business activities.
Programme Overview
| Programme | Beneficiaries | Aid Intensity | Eligible Investment Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| A. Grant Scheme for SMEs | Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) | 50% – 67% | €50,000 – €400,000 |
| B. Grant Scheme for Medium and Large Enterprises | Medium and Large Enterprises investing outside Attica | 40% – 60% | €2,000,000 – €6,000,000 |
Indicative Areas of Eligible Investment
A. Strategic Technologies (STEP)
Digital Technologies & Deep Tech
- Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning and MLOps
- Generative AI Applications
- Cybersecurity, Blockchain & Critical Infrastructure Protection
- Microelectronics & Semiconductor Design
- Cloud & Edge Computing
- Data Engineering & Advanced Data Architectures
- Robotics, Automation & Industry 4.0
- 5G, Advanced Connectivity & Next-Generation Networks
- High-Performance Computing (HPC)
Clean & Green Technologies
- Renewable Energy Production
- Energy Storage Technologies & Advanced Battery Systems
- Hydrogen Technologies & Fuel Cells
- Industrial Energy Efficiency Solutions
- Circular Economy Applications
- Green Supply Chain Technologies
- Electromobility & EV Charging Infrastructure
Biotechnology & Health Technologies
- Bio-manufacturing & Bioprocessing
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing & Biopharmaceuticals
- Medical Technologies (MedTech)
- Digital Health Solutions
Defence-Related Strategic Technologies
- Drones and Counter-Drone Systems
- Artillery Systems and Precision Strike Capabilities
- Air Defence & Missile Defence Systems
- Missiles and Ammunition
- Military Mobility Systems
- Cyber, Artificial Intelligence & Electronic Warfare Applications
- Air and Maritime Operational Support Systems
- Advanced Microelectronics for Defence Applications
B. Defence & Security
Cyber Defence & Information Security
- Cyber Defence & Threat Intelligence
- Security of Defence Networks, Communications & C4ISR Systems
- Artificial Intelligence for Defence Applications
- Electronic Warfare & Signals Intelligence (SIGINT)
- Semiconductors & Chiplets for Defence Systems
- Advanced Active & Passive Sensor Technologies
Defence Systems & Technologies
- Autonomous Systems & Drones (UAS/UAVs)
- Advanced Sensors, Radar & Surveillance Systems
- Space Technologies & Satellite Communications
- Naval Systems & Underwater Technologies
- Command & Control Systems (C4I, C4ISR, C5ISR)
- Propulsion & Energy Systems
- Critical Infrastructure Protection Systems
Dual-Use Technologies & Defence Industrial Base
- Dual-Use Technologies
- Defence Supply Chain & Logistics
- Energy Resilience Solutions for Defence Facilities
- Advanced Materials, Ballistic Protection & Nanomaterials
- Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) for Defence Applications
- Situational Awareness, Surveillance, Command & Control Technologies
- Advanced Processing of Metallic and Composite Defence Materials
- Defence & Security Sector Certifications
Human Factors, Training & Operational Readiness
- Simulation & Training Systems
- CBRN Protection & Defence Medical Countermeasures
- NATO Standards & Allied Forces Interoperability
- Operational Support & Logistics Systems
- Military Mobility & Logistics Solutions
Eligible Expenditure
Eligible investment costs include:
- Production and industrial equipment
- Machinery and technological equipment
- Buildings, facilities and site infrastructure
- Salaries of newly recruited personnel
- Technical studies and consulting services
- Software under Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and cloud computing models
- Software licences and intellectual property rights
- Environmental protection and energy-efficiency equipment
- Circular economy equipment and technologies
- Renewable energy, renewable hydrogen and high-efficiency cogeneration equipment
- Certification of products, services and processes according to national and international standards
Evaluation Process
Applications will be assessed through a comparative evaluation process.
The minimum score required for the approval of an investment project is 50 points.
How VK PREMIUM Can Support You
VK PREMIUM provides end-to-end support throughout the investment lifecycle, including eligibility assessment, investment planning, application preparation, project monitoring and grant management.
Our business growth consultants can help you identify the most suitable funding opportunity and maximize the chances of successful approval and implementation.
📩 Contact us today to explore how we could support your investment project!
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