Hungarian SMEs prepare for upcoming EU development funds

Hungarian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are preparing for upcoming European Union development funds, which are expected to target productivity, digitalization, energy efficiency, and green transitions. Experts suggest that instead of simple equipment purchases, upcoming funding may focus on complex development packages. Programs such as GINOP Plusz, DIMOP Plusz, KEHOP Plusz, and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) are expected to be key vehicles for this support.

Recent data indicates growing optimism within the sector. While approximately one-third of Hungarian SMEs applied for EU funds in the past year, over 52% of business leaders now view winning such grants as a realistic goal, up from a previous stagnation around 40%. Furthermore, 62% of businesses anticipate an expansion in EU funding opportunities over the next one to two years.

To increase participation, business leaders are calling for simplified application conditions, more diverse funding opportunities, faster evaluation processes, and the ability to utilize external grant writers. The funding is seen as critical for overcoming recent challenges, including rising operational and energy costs, as well as technological gaps in automation and digitalization.