The Albanian Investment Development Agency (AIDA) has announced a call for support and development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) for the year 2024. This initiative aims to foster the growth and competitiveness of MSMEs across the country through a well-structured program funded by the state budget.
Purpose and Objectives
AIDA administers the fund “For the development of enterprises,” in alignment with Article 11, letter a, of Law No. 43/2022 “On micro, small and medium enterprises.” The call is designed to bolster the development of MSMEs by:
- Increasing their competitiveness
- Developing new products and services
- Fostering innovation and technology renewal
- Promoting craftsmanship
- Supporting women entrepreneurs
- Encouraging exports
- Enhancing skills related to sustainable market services and products
Eligibility and Funding
The call targets MSMEs operating within Albania’s territory, and project proposals must adhere to the specific criteria and conditions for 2024. AIDA offers two main funding schemes under the “Business Development Support” program:
Scheme 1: Financial Support for Activity Development
- Maximum Funding: Up to 2,500,000 ALL
- Coverage: 100% of eligible costs
Eligible costs under this scheme include:
- Certification of production/service standards (including relevant consultancy)
- Participation in capacity-building training
- Participation in international fairs with ready-made stands
- Brand promotion through digitalization
- Creation and construction of applications and/or platforms for e-Commerce
- Preparation of promotional materials (not more than 20% of the total project value)
Scheme 2: Financial Support for Investments
2.1. Innovation Projects
- Maximum Funding: Up to 1,000,000 ALL
- Coverage: 100% of eligible costs
Eligible costs include:
- Technological development/improvement of the product
- Purchase of applications for customer service or data management
- Purchase of various computer programs or packages
2.2. Competitiveness Projects
- Maximum Funding: Up to 1,500,000 ALL
- Coverage: 100% of eligible costs
Eligible costs include:
- Purchase of machinery and/or work equipment that impact the increase of production and improvement of product quality
2.3. Start-Up Projects
- Maximum Funding: Up to 800,000 ALL
- Coverage: 100% of eligible costs
Eligible costs include:
- Purchase of machinery and/or work equipment
- Purchase of e-commerce applications and/or programs
2.4. Craftsmanship Projects
- Maximum Funding: Up to 800,000 ALL
- Coverage: 100% of eligible costs
Eligible costs include:
- Purchase of traditional and/or technological work machinery and/or equipment
- Purchase of e-commerce applications and/or programs
Application Process
The call for project proposals will be open from July 12, 2024, to August 11, 2024. Projects must be implemented within the budget year, with activities taking place between October and December 2024. Applicants are allowed to submit only one project proposal under one of the specified call directions.
Applications and required documentation must be submitted via email to: [email protected]. The necessary documents for application include:
- Completed application form
- Budget form
- Registration certificate in the commercial register
- Historical extract of registration in the National Business Center (NBC) with active status
- Declaration for the MSME category as per Article 5 of Law No. 43/2022
- Certificate proving payment of all tax/social and health insurance obligations (downloaded from e-Albania)
- Certificate from the General Directorate of Customs proving that customs duties have been paid (if applicable, downloaded from e-Albania)
- Income declaration form/financial statements for the last year, certified by the MSME administrator
- Copy of the MSME administrator’s ID or power of attorney and the ID of the representative (if the applicant is not the MSME administrator)
- A refreshed criminal record certificate (not more than 30 days old, downloaded from e-Albania)
- Any other document supporting the application
For detailed information and to download application documents, visit Application Documentation.
Conclusion
This call represents a significant opportunity for Albanian MSMEs to access financial support and enhance their business operations. By participating in this initiative, MSMEs can achieve technological advancements, improve competitiveness, and promote their products and services both domestically and internationally.
