European Funds for the Digital Transformation of Companies

Fonduri Europene pentru Transformarea Digitală a Companiilor

Digital transformation has become an essential factor in increasing the competitiveness and efficiency of companies, regardless of the industry. To support this transition, the European Union provides non-reimbursable funds that enable businesses to implement advanced technologies, optimize processes, and adapt to new market demands.

Accessing these funds can make the difference between stagnation and accelerated growth for a company. Implementing digital solutions can bring considerable benefits, such as reducing operational costs, increasing productivity, and improving customer relationships.

The Importance of Digital Transformation

Digital transformation is not just about adopting new technologies but about a fundamental change in how businesses operate and interact with customers. Key advantages of digitalization include:

  • Process Automation – Technologies like RPA (Robotic Process Automation) eliminate repetitive tasks, reduce human errors, and optimize workflows.
  • Access to Advanced Data – Digitalization allows companies to collect and analyze data to make better strategic decisions.
  • Flexibility and Scalability – Digitized businesses can respond more quickly to market changes and scale operations more easily.
  • Increased Customer Satisfaction – Implementing digital solutions enhances customer interaction by providing personalized and fast experiences.
  • Access to New Markets and Business Opportunities
  • Strengthening Competitive Market Position

Companies that do not adopt modern technologies risk falling behind the competition. European funds provide access to non-reimbursable financing of up to 90% for such projects.

To explore in more detail how digital transformation can benefit your business, we invite you to visit our dedicated Digital Solutions page on the ROBORA website.

European Funding Programs for Digitalization

The European Union offers various funding programs that support the digital transformation of businesses. The most relevant include:

  1. Digital Europe Program 2021–2027
    This program supports companies through funding for emerging technologies, including:
    • Artificial intelligence and big data
    • Cybersecurity
    • Advanced digital skills
    • The use of digital technologies in the economy and society
  2. PNRR Funds for Digitalization
    Romania’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) includes a component dedicated to SME digitalization. This program covers investments including:
    • ERP and CRM systems
    • Software automation
    • E-commerce platforms
  3. Regional Program Bucharest-Ilfov 1.7
    This program supports SMEs in adopting advanced digital solutions, including:
    • Cloud computing
    • Software automation
    • Resource management systems
    • Presentation Websites

Opportunities for SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) receive special attention in European funding programs. Grants for SME digitalization provide significant financial support for adopting digital technologies:

  • Funding amount: Between €30,000 and €100,000
  • Non-Reimbursable funding percentage: Up to 90% of eligible expenses
  • Application areas: IT equipment acquisition, software, licenses, website development, implementation of customized digital solutions (e.g., RPA implementation), as well as staff training in digital skills

These grants represent an excellent opportunity for SMEs looking to modernize their operations and become more competitive in the digital market.

Steps to Access European Funds

Accessing European funds involves several essential steps:

  1. Identifying the appropriate program – Analyze the criteria of each funding program.
  2. Developing a solid project – Draft a detailed business plan that justifies the need for digitalization.
  3. Submitting the funding application – Complete the documentation and submit it to the managing authority.
  4. Implementing the project – After funding approval, the company must implement solutions according to the approved plan.

It is recommended to collaborate with consultants specialized in European Funds to maximize success chances in obtaining financing.

ROMANIAN Success Stories in Digital Transformation Through European Funds

ROMANIAN Success Stories in Digital Transformation Through European Funds
Photo Source – 123RF Stock Photo

Romania has demonstrated that European Funds can be a significant catalyst for companies’ digital transformation. Below are some relevant examples from various industries that have benefited from these funds:

  1. Industrial Production Company – ERP System Implementation
    A company in industrial production obtained a €75,000 grant through the “SME Digitalization” program for implementing an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system. This system integrated production processes, managed inventories, and optimized supply chains, resulting in a 30% increase in operational efficiency and reduced delivery times.
  2. E-commerce Start-up – Development of a Customized Online Platform
    An e-commerce start-up received €50,000 in non-reimbursable funding to create an e-commerce platform integrated with CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and BI (Business Intelligence) solutions. This investment led to a 40% increase in sales and better customer relationship management through advanced data analysis.
  3. Livestock Farm – Process Automation via IoT
    A rural livestock farm accessed European Funds through the Just Transition Program to implement IoT (Internet of Things) sensors for daily activity management. Automated systems monitored animal health and environmental conditions, reducing losses and increasing productivity by 25%.
  4. Logistics Company – Route Optimization via TMS
    A Romanian transport and logistics firm implemented a TMS (Transport Management System) with a €60,000 grant. This digital solution optimized routes, reduced fuel costs, and improved delivery times, resulting in annual operational cost savings of 15%.
  5. Food Industry Company – Digitalizing Production Processes
    A food industry factory used European Funds to acquire an MES (Manufacturing Execution System), which monitors production processes in real-time. This system increased product traceability and compliance with EU food safety regulations, enabling them to expand exports into international markets.
  6. Construction Sector SME – Automating Bidding via Specialized Software
    A small construction firm accessed a grant for acquiring software dedicated to automating bidding and planning processes. This digital tool allowed them to manage projects more efficiently and participate in complex public tenders, increasing their client portfolio by 20% within a year.

Conclusion

European Funds for Digital Transformation represent a unique opportunity for companies across various industries to modernize operations and remain competitive in an increasingly digitalized economy. By accessing these non-refundable funds and implementing advanced digital solutions, companies can significantly improve performance while avoiding financial strain on their budgets.

To learn more about how you can benefit from our expertise in implementing digital transformation projects, we invite you to explore our Services or Contact us on ROBORA‘s website for a personalized assessment of your digitalization needs.

Investing in digital transformation supported by European Funds is key to staying relevant and competitive in the digital age. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to propel your business into the future!

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