It is no longer a surprise: both EU and Romanian public programs are investing heavily in business digitalization.
If you run an SME or plan a startup, 2025 offers major non-reimbursable funding windows. PNRR and startup-focused programs remain the main channels.
[!IMPORTANT] Many funding calls open early and are competitive. Preparation done in advance usually makes the difference between approval and rejection.
1. SME Digitalization Program (PNRR)
This is one of the most important funding lines for companies moving to the next operational stage.
Typical grants can cover substantial digital investments, often with co-financing requirements.
What these budgets can support
- Hardware: workstations, servers, network equipment.
- Software: productivity, accounting and business-management systems.
- Web/eCommerce: online store or modern business website.
- Cloud services: migration and operational infrastructure.
- Automation/AI: workflow automation, intelligent support systems.
Eligibility logic and DESI criteria
Funding is usually tied to measurable digital-intensity outcomes.
Projects are evaluated on whether investments actually transform operations, not just purchase tools.
Practical scoring logic often rewards:
- broad digital adoption across teams;
- process integration (ERP/CRM/eCommerce/analytics);
- modern connectivity and data usage;
- digital channel contribution to revenue.
2. Startup-focused program lines (2024/2025 window)
Startup schemes continue to emphasize innovation and tech-enabled execution.
Common characteristics:
- capped grant amount per project;
- minimum co-financing from applicant;
- pre-application training/compliance steps depending on call rules.
Projects with clear technology leverage usually perform better in competitive scoring.
3. How to prepare: practical sequence
- Assess real business needs
- avoid buying tech only to fill budget lines.
- Validate eligibility early
- confirm CAEN and program fit with updated call rules.
- Collect technical offers
- request realistic implementation and infrastructure quotes.
- Plan co-financing and cash flow
- include non-eligible costs in planning assumptions.
- Design measurable outcomes
- define what operational improvement looks like post-implementation.
[!TIP] Including cybersecurity and resilience components often improves both practical value and evaluation strength.
4. Common strategic mistake
Many teams focus on procurement list first and operating model second.
That inversion causes adoption problems later.
A stronger approach:
- map process bottlenecks first;
- define target workflow;
- choose software/infrastructure that fits that target.
Funding should accelerate a clear digital strategy, not replace it.
Conclusion
2025 funding can be a major growth catalyst if projects are designed around real process transformation and measurable outcomes.
The best projects do not just spend grant budget. They build durable operating advantage.
If you need technical scoping support for eligible implementation offers (web, software, automation, infrastructure), contact CreativDigital.
