Greece launches employment subsidies for regions affected by lignite phase-out

The Greek Public Employment Service (DYPA) has launched a new round of applications for business subsidies aimed at creating 2,700 full-time jobs. The program is part of the Just Transition Plan for regions affected by lignite phase-out, specifically targeting Western Macedonia, Megalopoli and its surrounding municipalities, and small islands in the North and South Aegean and Crete with populations under 3,100.

Supported by the European Union’s Just Transition Fund and national funding, the initiative provides subsidies for 12 months. For general unemployed individuals, the subsidy covers 70% of salary and contributions, totaling approximately 9,954 euros. For those specifically defined under the Just Transition Plan—such as former workers in declining sectors like lignite mining and conventional power production—the subsidy covers 100%, reaching up to 14,220 euros per person.