Skopje, 4 February 2026 (MIA) - The Agency for Innovation, Scientific and Technological Development and Entrepreneurship (INOVA) launched Wednesday a new project to be implemented over the next four years, which includes grants of EUR 5,000 - 300,000 for green transformation of companies. The EUR 25 million project will be implemented in the 2026 - 2030 period and is expected to support at least 300 small, micro and medium-sized enterprises.

The total value of the grant scheme amounts EUR 22 million, and companies, depending on the instrument, will have to participate with 20 - 50 percent of their own financing.

The first calls as part of the project will be announced in mid-2026, alongside a campaign to be implemented in cooperation with municipalities, chambers of commerce, regional centers and associations to ensure that support reaches the companies.

Participants in Wednesday's event noted that multiple financial instruments will be applied depending on the size and needs of the companies. Public calls will enable companies to apply for technical and advisory support, standardization, as well as financial support in the procurement of equipment, technologies, and development of new products. 

INOVA director Daniela Dimovska said Wednesday marked the beginning of an important transformation of the Macedonian economy, adding that INOVA will drive the change not as an administration, but as true partner of business.

Dimovska pointed out that the grants are intended for companies investing in sustainable, ecological and innovative solutions. The target group, she noted, are small, micro and medium-sized enterprises, especially from the manufacturing sector, but also other sectors that can contribute to reducing waste and increasing the use of green energy. The focus is on companies that have the potential for real green transformation, Dimovska noted.

"Our ambition is to create a new generation of companies that will not only follow European standards, but will be one step ahead of them. We are building a concept of green leaders - companies showing that green transition is not a cost, but an investment in the future. In parallel, we are creating a knowledge hub, as a living platform for sharing experiences, practices and lessons learned, and the effects are clear - sustainable and efficient companies, lower costs, greater competitiveness, new green jobs and an economy that grows without threatening the future of next generations," said Dimovska. 

The project, she added, directly contributes to the European Green Deal and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

"We expect this support to significantly contribute to swift implementation of green practices, as well as increasing awareness of the economic benefits of green transition," Dimovska pointed out.

The project's EUR 25 million value breaks down as EUR 18 million EU support, and EUR 7 million Budget funds.

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski addressed the event, noting that the EUR 25 million are not just a number in the Budget, but a direct investment in Macedonian companies and their competitiveness, in the European future and in the economy that the country is building for the generations yet to come.

"Today we send a strong and clear message that we are moving forward towards a sustainable, modern and competitive economy that grows responsibly, with care for the environment and with a clear European vision," said Mickoski. 

He noted that the project is not just a financial intervention, but a strategic investment in the future of the Macedonian economy.

"With financial support from the EU and funds provided by the Government, a significant project to support companies in the process of green transformation is now starting. It will support investments that mean less waste and pollution, greater use of renewable energy sources, reduction of the carbon footprint, more efficient use of natural resources and introduction of international environmental standards that are a prerequisite for entering global markets. Over 300 companies will be supported in the next four years, and additional private investments will be activated through co-financing mechanisms. Around 200 companies will receive support for the preparation and implementation of international standards for environmental protection and sustainable operations, which is a direct pass for participation in European and global supply chains," the PM pointed out. 

The aim of the project, he added, is to support the country in meeting the climate neutrality goals set out in the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans by strengthening the private sector and encouraging responsible and sustainable business practices.

"This Government invests where the economic and social impact is greatest. Green transformation is not a cost, but an investment in a stronger economy, a healthier environment and a higher quality of life for citizens. The Government remains a strong partner of the business community and a driver of the country's European future. Together we build a sustainable, competitive and European economy, together we build a future that lasts," Mickoski said. 

Photo: screenshot