The Start-Up Nation Program
About this good practice
Start-Up Nation is a national program running and improving for the past 10 years, designed to stimulate the Romanian economy by creating new jobs by supporting early-stage business growth.
The program managed by the SMEs Territorial Agencies of the Ministry of Economy has two components, one supporting Romanian startups and another targeting Diaspora entrepreneurs returning in the country to start a business.
Startup SMEs can apply for a one year project, benefitting from the financial support for purchasing technological equipment, acquiring workspaces, production facilities and spaces for production, services and commerce, as well as vehicles, furniture, office equipment, digital packages or specialized training courses. The applicants are also required to follow an entrepreneurship as well as a digital training course.
The last edition of the program in 2024 provided de minimis grants of up to 50.000 euro to approximately 7.500 beneficiaries, within an estimated total budget of 2 billion euro over a period of 7 years. The grants cover up to 95% of the eligible project costs, provided that a minimum of two new jobs are created and maintained.
Start Up Nation provides entrepreneurs with a significant opportunity to access funding, reduces financial risks associated with starting or growing a business and contributes to the broader goals of economic development.
Resources needed
The program’s successful implementation requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes a substantial financial commitment, the mobilization of human and administrative resources from government agencies and SME networks, strong partnerships, comprehensive training programs and monitoring tools.
Evidence of success
The Start-Up Nation Program empowers SMEs by providing them with access to financial assistance and industry networks. In 2022, the program experienced a surge in participation, attracting 15.319 applicants, and resulting in approximately 6.500 signed contracts translated into new supported businesses.
Potential for learning or transfer
Start Up Nation offers valuable lessons that can be applied to other regions aiming to promote entrepreneurship, create jobs and stimulate economic development.
Its targeted support for early-stage SMEs highlights the importance of focusing on businesses that form the backbone of local economies, fostering innovation at the grassroots level.
The program’s emphasis on job creation ensures that businesses selected contribute to reducing unemployment. Additionally, the simplified funding and reimbursement process provides an efficient and accessible model for entrepreneurs, reducing bureaucratic barriers.
Another key takeaway is the program's focus on technological innovation, with many businesses using grants to modernize processes and adopt digital tools. Finally, the integration of training courses supports entrepreneurs in developing the skills needed for their business. Other regions can learn from these aspects to design programs that foster a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Further information
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Agenția pentru Întreprinderi Mici și Mijlocii (Cluj-Napoca)
