Romanians living abroad who want to start businesses in Romania will be able to receive grants of up to 200,000 euros through a new program launched by the Ministry of Finance.
The program is called „Diaspora Invests at Home” and has a total budget of 100 million euros. The funds will be granted between 2026 and 2029 through the Investment and Development Bank to support investment loans taken by newly established companies.
According to the Ministry of Finance, grants can cover up to 60% of the investment loan amount, but not more than 200,000 euros for each eligible beneficiary.
Investment loans can range from 5,000 to 500,000 euros. The maximum loan period will be 10 years, with the final maturity date not exceeding December 31, 2037.
"The Ministry of Finance is making 100 million euros available for Romanians living abroad who want to invest in Romania and develop local businesses. Through 'Diaspora Invests at Home,' the first program aimed at Romanians living abroad, newly established companies by Romanian citizens residing abroad will be able to receive grants of up to 200,000 euros through the Investment and Development Bank, the institution responsible for granting, monitoring, and disbursing grants," the institution stated.
Who Can Receive the Funds
The program targets start-ups founded by Romanians living abroad. An important condition is that the companies must be majority-owned by Romanian citizens who have had their domicile or residence abroad for at least 12 consecutive months in the last 18 months.
Beneficiaries must also have at least one year of relevant professional experience or studies in the field for which they are seeking funding.
Additionally, the investment and shareholding structure must be maintained for at least three years after the investment is completed.
Lower Own Contribution for Young People
Entrepreneurs entering the program must provide a minimum own contribution of 10% of the investment project's value.
For those under 35 years old, the minimum contribution will be reduced to 5%.
Minister of Finance, Alexandru Nazare, argues that the program aims to turn the experience and resources of Romanians abroad into an advantage for the local economy.
"Through this program, we aim to transform the professional experience, skills, and resources of Romanians living abroad into an engine for economic development in Romania. We are sending a signal that we support entrepreneurial initiatives and investments made by Romanians who want to actively contribute to the development of the national economy. The program means sustainable investments, new opportunities for local communities, and job creation," stated Alexandru Nazare.