Croatian local authorities award €279,000 in grants to small businesses

The Istria County government signed contracts to distribute more than €260,000 in non‑repayable grants to 79 small and medium‑sized enterprises that applied under the 2026 public call. The funding, part of a €350,000 programme, targets digitalisation, processing‑industry upgrades and project preparation for national and EU funds. County leader Boris Miletić highlighted strong interest, with 108 applications received.

In the nearby municipality of Punat, officials awarded €18,998.89 in grants to local start‑ups and hospitality operators for equipment purchases, early‑stage entrepreneurship and off‑season restaurant support. Recipients include IPM Krk d.o.o., Orao, La Vitta e Bella and two hospitality firms. Both initiatives aim to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of Croatia’s micro‑business sector.