5 Simple Steps to Access European Funds in 2025
Accessing European Funds can radically transform a business. In the economic context of 2025—marked by accelerated digitalization, automation needs, green transition, and increasing competitiveness—Romanian entrepreneurs have a real opportunity to finance their development through non-reimbursable grants. In this article, we present 5 simple steps to access European Funds in 2025, clearly explaining each stage, offering helpful sources, and practical guidance. This guide is designed for SMEs, startups, and NGOs looking to benefit from European financial support.
Why Apply for European Funds in 2025?
Starting in 2025, Romania has access to a wide range of active financing programs through the 2021–2027 multiannual budget and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). The available funds target the following areas:
- Digitalization of businesses
- Digital transformation of public institutions
- Process automation using RPA and Artificial Intelligence
- Energy efficiency and sustainability
- Rural development and agricultural modernization
- Research, innovation, and development
Applying for such a program is no longer a privilege reserved for large companies or organizations with dedicated project teams. With the right partners, such as ROBORA, any SME can access up to 90% non-reimbursable funding for digitalization and automation projects.
Step 1: Identify the Right Funding Program for Your Business
The first step is to identify the financing program that fits your business goals. In 2025, the most relevant funding lines include:
1.1. PNRR – Digitalization of SMEs
✔️ Grants up to €100,000 for SMEs to acquire software, IT equipment, and automation services (e.g., RPA, ERP, CRM)
📍 Ongoing calls in 2025 – follow https://granturi.imm.gov.ro
1.2. Regional Operational Program (ROP) 2021–2027
✔️ Includes funding for energy efficiency, digitalization, urban and rural development
📍 Details available on https://www.fonduri-ue.ro
1.3. Horizon Europe
✔️ Supports research and innovation projects, especially in IT and AI sectors
Step 2: Check if Your Business Is Eligible
Even if a funding call looks promising, it is crucial to check the eligibility criteria before preparing your application.
2.1. Common Eligibility Criteria for SMEs (valid for most programs):
- The company has a valid eligible NACE code
- No outstanding debts to the state or local budget
- At least 1 year of activity before applying
- Not in financial difficulty
- Not undergoing insolvency, liquidation, or bankruptcy
- Has co-financing capability (usually 10%–30%)
2.2. Other Requirements:
- Headquarters and operational site must be in Romania
- Activity field must be eligible (not all NACE codes are accepted)
- No previous similar financing for the same purpose
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documentation
Documentation is the most important technical stage in the entire process. Incomplete or incorrect files will lead to the project being rejected—even if the idea is valuable.
3.1. Commonly Requested Documents:
- Completed official application form
- Business or investment plan
- Feasibility study (where required)
- Cost-benefit analysis
- Financial statements (balance sheet, income statement)
- Affidavits and declarations
- Detailed project budget
- Fiscal records and tax clearance certificates
3.2. Examples of Eligible Costs:
- Specialized software (ERP, CRM, BI, RPA, etc.)
- IT equipment (servers, computers, licenses)
- Consulting and implementation services
- Employee training
- Project promotion expenses
Step 4: Submit the Application and Monitor the Evaluation Process
After preparing all the documents, the next step is to submit your application. The most frequently used platforms include:
- https://2014.mysmis.ro/ – MySMIS (for most ROP programs)
- https://granturi.imm.gov.ro/ – IMM Grants via PNRR
- Platforms of regional development agencies (e.g., ADR South Muntenia, ADR Bucharest-Ilfov)
4.1. Useful Tips:
- Don’t wait until the deadline: platforms can crash due to high traffic
- Double-check uploaded files
- Make sure you have a valid digital signature (for the company’s legal representative)
📩 Want to get notified when new funding calls are launched? Subscribe to our newsletter with the word “Newsletter” at https://robora.io/en/contact-us/.
Step 5: Implement the Project and Request Expense Reimbursements
Once the project is approved, the next stage is implementation and reporting.
5.1. Common Activities During Implementation:
- Public or direct procurement procedures (according to the program guide)
- Signing contracts with software and service providers
- Installing, testing, and launching solutions
- Staff training
- Preparing progress reports
5.2. Reimbursement Process:
After completing certain stages, you can request reimbursement for expenses. These requests must include:
- Invoices
- Proof of payment
- Financial and narrative reports
- Other annexes required by the managing authority
🔧 ROBORA is your ideal partner during this phase, offering RPA implementation, Digital Transformation tools, and post-implementation support.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The total duration varies depending on the program and project complexity:
| Stage | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Identifying the program | 1–2 weeks |
| Eligibility check | 2–5 days |
| Document preparation | 2–4 weeks |
| Application & evaluation | 1–3 months |
| Implementation & reporting | 6–12 months |
🕒 The earlier you start, the better your chances of success and avoiding bureaucratic delays.
How Can ROBORA Help You Access EU Funds in 2025?
At ROBORA, we offer a comprehensive service for companies seeking European Funds, focusing on digital transformation and automation with sotfware robots. We provide:
- Strategic consultancy for program selection
- Eligibility assessment
- Complete project file preparation
- Implementation of IT solutions: RPA, ChatBots, Websites, Project Management
- Support with procurement and reporting
- Post-implementation mentoring and maintenance
💬 Want real examples of clients who accessed funding and digitalized their operations with our help? Let us a message here and let’s talk.
Conclusion
Accessing European funding in 2025 is not an impossible process—on the contrary, with a clear strategy and a reliable partner, it becomes a real opportunity for accelerated growth. By following these 5 simple steps, you can turn your ideas into a funded project that directly impacts your business competitiveness.
✅ Don’t postpone the decision. Calls are limited by budget and time.
✅ Start today and let us guide you on the road to funding.
📌 Explore all our services here.
