What types of IT projects are eligible for non-reimbursable European Funds?

Ce tipuri de proiecte IT sunt eligibile pentru Fonduri Europene nerambursabile?

Undoubtedly, non-reimbursable European Funds represent an exceptional opportunity for Romanian companies to accelerate their development, and the IT sector is one of the priority areas for funding. Digital transformation is no longer a whim but a strategic necessity to remain competitive. In this context, understanding the types of IT projects that can attract European funding is the first step towards innovation and sustainable growth.

This detailed article, optimized to provide you with the most relevant information, serves as a complete guide for entrepreneurs and managers who wish to successfully navigate the landscape of non-reimbursable funding for technology in the 2021-2027 period.

The Context of European Funding for IT in Romania

For the 2021-2027 programming period, the European Union, through various operational programs, places a strong emphasis on digitalization. Programs such as the Smart Growth, Digitalisation and Financial Instruments Programme (PoCIDIF) and the digitalization components of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) are the main vehicles through which funds reach companies in the technology sector. The objective is clear: to stimulate innovation, increase the competitiveness of SMEs, and transition to an economy based on data and technology. 

Who Can Apply for Funding? General Eligibility Criteria

Before exploring the types of projects, it is essential to check if your company meets the general eligibility conditions. Although each applicant’s guide has its peculiarities, most funding axes for IT target are:

  • Company Type: Applicants must generally be micro-enterprises, small, or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). According to European rules, a medium-sized enterprise has fewer than 250 employees and an annual turnover not exceeding 50 million euros or a total annual balance sheet not exceeding 43 million euros. 
  • Financial and Legal Status: The company must not be in difficulty, insolvency, bankruptcy, or liquidation. It must also have all taxes and duties paid up to date. 
  • Co-financing: Most funding programs require a personal contribution from the beneficiary. The percentage varies depending on the program and the size of the company, and can be between 10% and 50% of the project’s eligible value. 
  • Alignment with the Field of Activity: The proposed project must fall within the fields of activity (NACE codes) specified in the funding guide as eligible or priority. 

Top 5 Types of IT Projects Eligible for Non-Reimbursable Funds

Top 5 Types of IT Projects Eligible for Non-Reimbursable Funds

Once the general criteria are met, the focus shifts to the nature of the project. Here are the main categories of IT investments that have a high chance of receiving funding:

1. Custom Software and Innovative Application Development

Creating new software products, whether we are talking about web applications, online platforms, mobile apps, or specialized software for a specific field, is one of the most funded activities. Projects that propose innovative solutions, solve a specific market problem, or integrate cutting-edge technologies are particularly attractive to evaluators. Activities related to NACE Code 6201 – Custom software development activities are frequently awarded extra points in evaluation grids. 

2. Digitalization and Automation of Internal Processes (RPA, CRM, ERP)

The implementation of software solutions for optimizing a company’s internal workflows is another important pillar of digitalization. Projects may include:

  • Business Process Automation (BPA) and Robotic Process Automation (RPA) to reduce repetitive manual work.
  • Implementing a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to manage customer relationships and streamline sales and marketing processes.
  • Implementing an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system to integrate all company departments (production, sales, accounting, inventory).

These investments lead to increased productivity, reduced human errors, and better-informed business decisions.

3. Information Technology Consulting and Management

Funding covers not only the acquisition of hardware and software but also related services. Companies can obtain funds to contract specialized IT consulting services, essential for a correct digital transformation. These projects can fall under NACE Code 6202 – Information technology consultancy activities or NACE Code 6209 – Other information technology and computer service activities. Examples of eligible activities include cybersecurity audits, developing a digitalization strategy, designing the architecture of an IT system, or managing the implementation of a complex IT project. 

4. Innovation through Advanced Technologies (AI, IoT, Cloud)

Funding programs, especially those within PoCIDIF, strongly encourage the adoption of advanced technologies. Projects that aim to integrate components of: 

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
  • Internet of Things (IoT)
  • Big Data & Analytics
  • Cloud Computing
  • Blockchain
  • Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

often benefit from a competitive advantage in the selection process. An example would be the development of a predictive analysis platform for production optimization or the implementation of IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of a supply chain.

5. E-commerce Platform Creation and Digital Marketing

Developing an online presence is vital for any business. European Funds support the creation or modernization of online stores, booking platforms, or other types of web portals that facilitate e-commerce. In addition to the technical development of the platform, some funding lines can also cover related digital marketing expenses, such as SEO strategies, online promotion campaigns, or traffic analysis tools. 

The Decisive Role of NACE Codes

In almost all project calls, the applicant’s NACE code plays a crucial role. The IT field is considered a sector with high growth potential, and certain NACE codes are advantaged, receiving additional points. The most relevant codes for IT projects are those in the 620 class, such as : 

  • 6201: Custom software development activities
  • 6202: Information technology consultancy activities
  • 6203: Computer facilities management activities
  • 6209: Other information technology and computer service activities

It is recommended to carefully check the specific guide for each funding axis to see which NACE codes are eligible and which ones benefit from preferential scoring.

How ROBORA Can Help You Access European Funds

How ROBORA Can Help You Access European Funds

With proven experience in digital transformation projects, ROBORA can support Romanian companies in preparing and implementing projects eligible for European non-reimbursable funds.

Our team can assist in identifying the most suitable funding lines for your business’s specific needs, evaluating project eligibility, preparing technical documentation and the funding application, as well as in the effective implementation of the funded IT solutions. Expertise in RPA software automation, CRM systems, ChatBot & Conversational AI, website development, and applied Artificial Intelligence technologies position ROBORA as the ideal partner for companies seeking to access European Funds for digitalization and innovation.

By collaborating with us, you benefit from personalized consultancy for structuring the project according to funding program requirements, modern technological solutions compliant with European standards, and continuous support throughout the entire implementation period. Digital transformation backed by European Funds thus becomes accessible and efficient, contributing to the growth of your business’s competitiveness on the Romanian and European market.

At ROBORA, digital transformation is not a cost—it is an opportunity. Request a FREE consulting session for your IT project now, click here.