Accelerator Startup Sofia Programme to Invest BGN 100,000 in Innovative Startups and Social Entrepreneurs
Applications for the Accelerator Startup Sofia Programme are still open until 31 January 2021. The Programme aims at supporting companies based in Sofia that develop innovative products, services or processes and demonstrate potential for growth, wide application and impact. The companies will be supported to accelerate access to finance through training sessions on how to develop and present well-founded proposals to potential investors. It will also increase their skills to pitch, negotiate, and partner with funding organizations that will help them further develop high-value-added innovative products and services.
“The Programme will provide BGN 100,000 in grant funding to SMEs based in Sofia. When you are a startup entrepreneur, financing is not the only thing that you need. Your idea has to be presented to the local ecosystem, mentorship and expert assistance, as well as networking for go-to-market activities locally or internationally, are also needed”, CEO at Invest Sofia Maria Hristova commented.
The pilot edition of the Accelerator Startup Sofia was held in 2019 and 13 projects were funded. Sofia-based SMEs can submit their document for participation in the second edition of the Programme until the end of January. Individuals are also allowed to apply, but within 6 months they must set up a company in Sofia. “The application process is easy, fully online. Entrepreneurs can submit their applications on the website of the Europe Programme”, Maria Hristova added.
“Support has always been essential. Micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises tend to have difficulties in terms of competitiveness. Financial mechanisms and expert assistance are the least we could support the companies with, while at the same time considering options for additional funding to the projects showing the highest potential for growth”, Invest Sofia’s CEO said.
https://btvradio.bg/intervuta/za-grada/programata-akselerator-startap-sofija-podpomaga-sas-100-000-lv-inovativni-startirashti-i-socialni-predpriemachi.html
