The Ministry of Economy and Labor today launched a Public Call for Financial Support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Artisans, within the framework of the Entrepreneurship and Competitiveness Development Program for 2026.
MKD11.34 million have been provided for the implementation of this measure, and the support will be realized through co-financing of 40 percent of the proven costs for the purchase of new machines and tools, but not more than MKD200 thousand per applicant.
"With this measure, we are directly helping domestic companies and artisans to invest in modernization, new equipment and increased productivity. Our goal is to create a more competitive domestic economy and provide real support for small businesses, which are the drivers of economic growth," said Minister of Economy and Labor Besar Durmishi.
The right to participate in the Public Call is granted to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with majority domestic capital, as well as artisans registered in accordance with the Law on Crafts.
The support applies to costs incurred during 2025 and 2026, and all applicants who meet the conditions set out in the Public Call will be covered by the measure.
The Ministry of Economy and Labor has also announced two new Public Calls within the framework of the Program for Support of the Processing Industry and Social Responsibility for 2026.
The first Call concerns the reimbursement of part of the costs for the introduction and certification of standards in the processing industry, for which MKD 2 million have been provided. Companies will be able to receive co-financing of up to 70 percent of the costs, but not more than MKD200 thousand.
"By introducing international standards, we help companies to more easily position themselves in foreign markets, increase their competitiveness and become part of global supply chains," Durmishi said.
The second Public Call is intended to strengthen cooperation between companies in the manufacturing industry and Universities through the implementation of joint projects. MKD5 million are foreseen for this measure, and co-financing will amount to up to 70 percent of the costs, but not more than MKD500 thousand per project.
"Investment in knowledge, research, innovation and cooperation between business and academia is key for technological development, green and digital transition and the creation of products with higher added value," said Minister Durmishi.
All details of the Public Calls, conditions and required documentation will be published on the website of the Ministry of Economy and Labor.
The deadline for applying for the Public Call for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and artisans is June 30, 2026.
