Bulgarian urban development and economic transition funding

Bulgaria has initiated significant funding programs aimed at urban development and a transition toward a climate-neutral economy. Under the ‘Regional Development’ program, the government has earmarked over €1 billion, with €400 million designated for urban investments through long-term loans for 50 municipalities to support green infrastructure, energy efficiency, and social facilities. An additional €600 million is allocated for a ‘just transition’ to assist regions most impacted by the shift to a low-carbon economy, such as Pernik, Kyustendil, and Stara Zagora.

In a specific regional application of these development goals, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Pulev announced €120 million in urban development funds specifically for the Sliven region and its surroundings. These resources, facilitated through the Bulgarian Development Bank and the Fund of Funds, are intended to improve energy and transport connectivity, as well as social and cultural infrastructure. Pulev noted Sliven’s potential to become a central economic hub due to its proximity to the Kapitan Andreevo border crossing and the Port of Burgas.