How to register a company in Romania?

In order to register a company in Romania, you need to choose the type of company form you want to incorporate, to prepare the necessary documents and to submit the application to the Romanian Trade Registry. Most common forms of companies in Romania are the Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (SA) and sole trader (PFA).

How long does it take to open a company in Romania?

The company formation in Romania process will take 2 working days, since the date the incorporation application is submitted to the Romanian Trade Registry.

What is the main advantage to open a company in Romania?

One of the lowest taxation in EU: 1% turnover tax for the companies whose turnover does not exceed EUR 60,000 and have at least one employee or 3% turnover tax if the companies has a revenue exceeding EUR 60,000 or the companies is engaged in some specific activities.

Can I start a company in Romania as a foreigner?

Foreign citizens and legal persons can quickly and easily incorporate their own company in Romania, without any restrictions. There is no need for a Romanian shareholder and director

Top 7 Non-Refundable Funds & Business Grants in Romania 2025

Starting and growing a business can be challenging, especially when it comes to securing funding. For entrepreneurs in Romania, 2025 presents an array of opportunities through non-refundable grants and funding programs designed to support businesses at all stages. From the renowned StartUp Nation program to European, National Recovery and Resilience Plan PNRR and Norwegian grants, there are multiple ways to access financial support. In this guide, we’ll explore top 7 non-refundable funding sources available in 2025, helping you tap into the resources needed to fuel your business growth

Are you ready to take your business to the next level in 2025? Romania offers a wealth of non-refundable funds designed to fuel innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth. From the highly anticipated Start Up Nation 2025 program to key opportunities through European funds for Romania, Norwegian funds Romania, and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR Romania), there’s never been a better time to tap into these resources. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established MSME, these non-refundable grants from programs like EEA Grants Romania, Norway Grants Romania, and EU-backed initiatives under the PNRR Next Generation EU can be game-changers for your success.

Discover how these EU funds for Romania and other strategic funding programs administered by the Ministry of European Funds Romania can help you scale your business, innovate, and thrive in a competitive market. Dive into our curated list of the top 7 sources and learn how to secure your share of these transformative opportunities. Let’s explore the roadmap to your entrepreneurial growth in Startup Nation 2025!

1. StartUp Nation 2025: Empowering Entrepreneurs in Romania. Why Choose Start Up Nation 2025?

The StartUp Nation program remains one of the most popular funding sources for new and growing businesses in Romania. Designed to stimulate entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation, this program offers substantial financial support to eligible businesses. The Start Up Nation Romania program has been a game-changer for aspiring entrepreneurs. This government-backed initiative provides non-refundable grants to cover a wide range of startup expenses.

Startup Nation 2025 program was established through Government Ordinance 29/2024, published in the Official Gazette on August 14, 2024. The program officially began with the registration phase for entrepreneurial training providers, launched on September 2024. Officialy, it will be launched in March 2025. With its simplified application process and focus on economic development, StartUp Nation 2025 offers a clear path for entrepreneurs looking to kickstart their business ideas.

Non-Refundable Funding Value StartUp Nation 2025: 250,000 RON in non-refundable grants for the creation and maintenance of 2 jobs for two years and co-financing rates: 10%, 15%, 20%

How to Access Startup Nation in 2025? The 2025 edition of the Startup Nation program will be held in two phases:

First Phase: Enrollment in entrepreneurial skills courses. These courses will also be available online. In order to submit a business plan under Startup Nation 2025, it is mandatory to take the entrepreneurial skills courses, even if you have previously attended such courses or have an economic background. To register for the entrepreneurial courses, the Ministry of Economy will provide an online platform from where you can select a training provider.

Second Phase: Submission of registration documents by those who successfully completed the training courses.

Who Can Access Startup Nation 4 in 2025? The 2025 edition of Startup Nation has two pillars, as follows:

Pillar 1: Activation of Entrepreneurial Potential Among Young People

Eligible Applicants: Young people under 30 years old.
Regions: All regions of Romania (București-Ilfov, North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre).
Budget: 29,750,000 EUR for the București-Ilfov region, 266,000,000 EUR for the rest of the regions in Romania (North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre).
Entrepreneurial Skills Course: Mandatory through the Startup Nation program.

Pillar 2: Support for Developing Entrepreneurship Among Target Groups

Eligible Applicants: Young people under 35 years old, Unemployed people, Long-term unemployed individuals or inactive people, People from disadvantaged groups in the labor market, People returning to Romania.
Regions: North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre.
Budget: 150,435,295 EUR for the following regions: North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre. Companies from the București-Ilfov region cannot access funding under Pillar 2.
Entrepreneurial Skills Course: Mandatory through the Startup Nation program.

Eligibility Conditions for the Startup Nation Program in 2025

The company must be established following the entrepreneurial skills course.
The company must have its headquarters and implement its business in the region where the eligible person resides.
The company must qualify as an SME (Small or Medium Enterprise).

More information about non-refundable funds in the StartUp Nation 2025 programme will be available on the Ministry of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Tourism web site.

2. European Funds for Romania: Opportunities through EU Grants

Romania benefits from a range of European Union funding programs, aimed at boosting economic growth, innovation, and sustainability. These funds are channeled through initiatives like the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and the Next Generation EU framework. Romania benefits significantly from European Union (EU) funds, offering a wealth of opportunities for businesses. Available EU funds and programs:

PNRR Romania: Offers financial support for digital transformation, green energy projects, and infrastructure improvements. as we will see below.

European Structural and Investment Funds: Targets MSMEs, startups, and large enterprises with grants tailored to innovation and competitiveness.

Non-Refundable Grant for MSMEs: Specifically designed for small and medium enterprises to expand their operations.

Innovation Romania: With a total funding of 106.7 million euros, the program is supported by the "Smart Growth, Digitization, and Financial Instruments 2021-2027" Program (PoCIDIF), using European structural funds. The new program "Innovation Romania," designed as a fund of funds, aims to create financial instruments tailored to the needs of the local market, which have so far been underdeveloped. As such, three types of equity funds will be launched:
1. The Technology Transfer Fund – aimed at capitalizing on research and innovation results through partnerships with research and development organizations;
2. The Co-investment Fund with "business angels" – designed to strengthen the community of private investors and facilitate their involvement in the development of Romanian entrepreneurship;
3. The Entrepreneurial Acceleration Fund – dedicated to supporting startups and stimulating their growth.

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the relevant section of the website of Ministry of European Funds in Romania.

3. The Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2025. Grants of €25,000–€300,000 for Bucharest-Ilfov Region, Dedicated to Supporting Sustainable Growth and Technological Modernization of Micro-Enterprises

These European grants program offering €25,000–€300,000 for micro-enterprises looking to make investments in the Bucharest-Ilfov urban area, under the Project Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2024 - Support for Sustainable Growth and Technological Modernization of Micro-enterprises! The funding line for micro-enterprises in Bucharest and Ilfov County currently has a budget of €37,627,723.75, with €15,051,089.48 contributed by the European Union and the remainder from the state budget. The value of the non-refundable grant ranges from a minimum of €25,000 to a maximum of €300,000.

Co-Financing Requirements:

(i) at least 10% of the eligible investment value for projects with non-refundable funding of up to €200,000 and

(ii) at least 20% for projects with non-refundable funding between €200,001 and €300,000.

Micro-enterprises (with fewer than 10 employees) can submit their projects via the MySMIS2021 electronic system between January 27, 2025, at 12:00 PM and February 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM.

More info about these non-refundable funds in the Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2025 are available on the official public authority webpage section Project Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2024 - Support for Sustainable Growth and Technological Modernization of Micro-enterprises!.

4. Norwegian and EEA Grants for Romania: A Gateway to Growth

The Norwegian Funds Romania and EEA Grants Romania are part of Norway’s commitment to reducing economic disparities in Europe. These grants support a variety of projects, including green innovation, cultural heritage, and social inclusion. Through the EEA Grants and Norwegian Grants, Romania receives financial support from Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. These non-refundable grants prioritize: environmental protection, civil society and culture and national cultural heritage preservation.

How to Apply for Norwegian Grants and EEA Funds in Romania? Research open calls for applications on the Norway Grants website or through the Ministry of European Funds Romania. Work with local partners or consultant StartUp Nation to develop a strong application.

Success Story: Many Romanian startups have leveraged Norwegian grants to scale their operations and access international markets.

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the EEA and Norway Grants web page.

5. Non-Refundable Funds Supporting Investments in the Development of Electricity Storage Capacities (Batteries)

The Ministry of Energy launched a project call on November 19, 2024, under Key Program No. 1 - Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Storage, titled “Support for Investments in Developing Electricity Storage Capacities (Batteries) with Financing from the Modernization Fund”.

Eligible companies can submit their applications until February 17, 2025. The competitive bidding procedure aims to fund projects focused on implementing new behind-the-meter energy storage capacities (batteries) connected to existing renewable energy production facilities.

Eligible Investments. The financed investments will focus on storing energy derived from:

Exclusively renewable energy produced by the facility directly connected to the storage system.
A mix of renewable energy from the connected facility and energy drawn from the National Energy System, provided the storage system absorbs at least 75% of its annual energy from the renewable facility to which it is connected.

Who Can Apply? Eligible applicants include: economic operators such as micro, small, medium, and large enterprises (excluding newly established businesses), as well as autonomous administrations legally established under national or EU-specific legislation and registered with the Romanian Trade Register (ONRC) before the first state aid payment.

Budget and Funding Details

Total Budget: €150 million (non-refundable funds).
State Aid Structure:
- Reimbursement of eligible expenses in RON.
- Up to 100% of eligible costs, capped at €10 million per enterprise per project.
- Funding for storage capacity: maximum €100,000 per installed MWh.

Application Process. Applications must be submitted through the MySMIS2021 electronic platform. Comprehensive guidelines and explanations for completing the funding request can be accessed within the platform.

This program offers an excellent opportunity for businesses to invest in innovative energy storage solutions, ensuring a sustainable and efficient energy future. Don’t miss the chance to secure funding for your energy storage projects!

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the relevant section of the website of Ministry of Energy.

6. Swiss Funds within SME Eco-Tech Program for Romanian Companies

SME Eco-Tech funding was announced in September 2024 by the Ministry of Finance, while in December 2024, the Ministry of Economy provided detailed information about the program. The Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism (MEAT) is preparing a new funding program – SME Eco-Tech, aimed at the green and digital transformation of SMEs in the manufacturing industry. The program will be funded through the second Swiss contribution to Romania, in accordance with the Implementation Agreement signed between MEAT and the Ministry of Finance in early December.

The SME Eco-Tech program will be implemented by MEAT, in partnership with selected banking institutions, and its objective is to improve the environmental footprint of these businesses and support their adaptation to climate challenges, in line with the European Union's strategic directions. Our institution will prepare both the IT infrastructure and the procedural steps, with the program expected to launch next year.

The total budget of the SME Eco-Tech program is 53,924,286 CHF (approximately 289 million RON), of which 70% represents the Swiss contribution, and 30% is the contribution from MEAT, from the state budget. Eligible SMEs will be able to access grants of up to 50,000 CHF (equivalent to approximately 268,000 RON), representing a maximum of 40% of the eligible expenses related to investment projects.

Investment projects may include equipment, technologies, solutions, or systems specific to energy savings, which use or generate renewable energy, equipment for collection, recycling, reuse, as well as other conventional technological equipment. At least 60% of the eligible expenses will be covered by bank loans, accessed under favorable market conditions through partner financial institutions.

The SME Eco-Tech program is expected to run until June 2029.

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the Romanian Government website relevant section.

7. National Recovery and Resilience Plan. 28,5 Billion Euro as Non-Refundable Funds Granted in PNRR Romania

The PNRR Romania is part of the Next Generation EU initiative, a significant financial package designed to support economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan offers non-refundable grants for:

Digital Transformation: Funding for digital infrastructure, e-government, and digital skills development.
Green Transition: Support for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation.
Social and Territorial Cohesion: Investments in education, healthcare, and regional development.

More info about the projects financed with the non-refundable funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan are available on the website of the Ministry of European Funds and European Projects in Romania.

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Tips for Maximizing Your Chances of Securing Non-Refundable Funds

Develop a Solid Business Plan: A clear, detailed plan is essential for demonstrating your project’s feasibility and impact.
Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Ministry of European Funds Romania and other relevant organizations.
Leverage Expertise: Partner with consultants or agencies specializing in grant applications.
Be Persistent: Rejections are common; refine your approach and reapply.

Conclusion on StartUp Nation 2025, Non-Refundable European Funds, Norwegian Grants and PNRR Romania

Securing non-refundable funding can significantly accelerate the growth of your business in Romania. By exploring the opportunities presented by programs like StartUp Nation Romania, European Funds, Norwegian Grants, the PNRR, and leveraging the support of the Ministry of European Funds, you can access valuable resources to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.

The year 2025 is ripe with opportunities for Romanian businesses to thrive through non-refundable funding sources. Whether you’re launching a new venture with StartUp Nation 2025, scaling operations through EU funds, or exploring innovative projects with Norwegian and EEA grants, there’s a program tailored to your needs.

By leveraging these funding sources and following expert advice, you can secure the financial support needed to turn your business vision into reality. Don’t miss out on the chance to grow your business with the help of these game-changing grants!

Top Non-Refundable Funds for Business Growth in Romania StartUp Nation

1. StartUp Nation 2025: Empowering Entrepreneurs in Romania. Why Choose Start Up Nation 2025?

Non-Refundable Funding Value StartUp Nation 2025: 250,000 RON in non-refundable grants for the creation and maintenance of 2 jobs for two years and co-financing rates: 10%, 15%, 20%

How to Access Startup Nation in 2025? The 2025 edition of the Startup Nation program will be held in two phases:

Second Phase: Submission of registration documents by those who successfully completed the training courses.

Who Can Access Startup Nation 4 in 2025? The 2025 edition of Startup Nation has two pillars, as follows:

Pillar 1: Activation of Entrepreneurial Potential Among Young People

Eligible Applicants: Young people under 30 years old.

Regions: All regions of Romania (București-Ilfov, North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre).

Budget: 29,750,000 EUR for the București-Ilfov region, 266,000,000 EUR for the rest of the regions in Romania (North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre).

Entrepreneurial Skills Course: Mandatory through the Startup Nation program.

Pillar 2: Support for Developing Entrepreneurship Among Target Groups

Eligible Applicants: Young people under 35 years old, Unemployed people, Long-term unemployed individuals or inactive people, People from disadvantaged groups in the labor market, People returning to Romania.

Regions: North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre.

Budget: 150,435,295 EUR for the following regions: North East, South East, South Muntenia, South West Oltenia, West, North West, Centre. Companies from the București-Ilfov region cannot access funding under Pillar 2.

Entrepreneurial Skills Course: Mandatory through the Startup Nation program.

Eligibility Conditions for the Startup Nation Program in 2025

The company must be established following the entrepreneurial skills course.

The company must have its headquarters and implement its business in the region where the eligible person resides.

The company must qualify as an SME (Small or Medium Enterprise).

More information about non-refundable funds in the StartUp Nation 2025 programme will be available on the Ministry of Economy, Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Tourism web site.

2. European Funds for Romania: Opportunities through EU Grants

PNRR Romania: Offers financial support for digital transformation, green energy projects, and infrastructure improvements. as we will see below.

European Structural and Investment Funds: Targets MSMEs, startups, and large enterprises with grants tailored to innovation and competitiveness.

Non-Refundable Grant for MSMEs: Specifically designed for small and medium enterprises to expand their operations.

The Technology Transfer Fund – aimed at capitalizing on research and innovation results through partnerships with research and development organizations;

The Co-investment Fund with "business angels" – designed to strengthen the community of private investors and facilitate their involvement in the development of Romanian entrepreneurship;

The Entrepreneurial Acceleration Fund – dedicated to supporting startups and stimulating their growth.

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the relevant section of the website of Ministry of European Funds in Romania.

3. The Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2025. Grants of €25,000–€300,000 for Bucharest-Ilfov Region, Dedicated to Supporting Sustainable Growth and Technological Modernization of Micro-Enterprises

Co-Financing Requirements:

(i) at least 10% of the eligible investment value for projects with non-refundable funding of up to €200,000 and

(ii) at least 20% for projects with non-refundable funding between €200,001 and €300,000.

Micro-enterprises (with fewer than 10 employees) can submit their projects via the MySMIS2021 electronic system between January 27, 2025, at 12:00 PM and February 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM.

More info about these non-refundable funds in the Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2025 are available on the official public authority webpage section Project Call PR BI P1/1.8/1/2024 - Support for Sustainable Growth and Technological Modernization of Micro-enterprises!.

4. Norwegian and EEA Grants for Romania: A Gateway to Growth

How to Apply for Norwegian Grants and EEA Funds in Romania? Research open calls for applications on the Norway Grants website or through the Ministry of European Funds Romania. Work with local partners or consultant StartUp Nation to develop a strong application.

Success Story: Many Romanian startups have leveraged Norwegian grants to scale their operations and access international markets.

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the EEA and Norway Grants web page.

5. Non-Refundable Funds Supporting Investments in the Development of Electricity Storage Capacities (Batteries)

The Ministry of Energy launched a project call on November 19, 2024, under Key Program No. 1 - Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Storage, titled “Support for Investments in Developing Electricity Storage Capacities (Batteries) with Financing from the Modernization Fund”.

Eligible companies can submit their applications until February 17, 2025. The competitive bidding procedure aims to fund projects focused on implementing new behind-the-meter energy storage capacities (batteries) connected to existing renewable energy production facilities.

Eligible Investments. The financed investments will focus on storing energy derived from:

Exclusively renewable energy produced by the facility directly connected to the storage system.

A mix of renewable energy from the connected facility and energy drawn from the National Energy System, provided the storage system absorbs at least 75% of its annual energy from the renewable facility to which it is connected.

Budget and Funding Details

Total Budget: €150 million (non-refundable funds).

State Aid Structure:

Reimbursement of eligible expenses in RON.

Up to 100% of eligible costs, capped at €10 million per enterprise per project.

Funding for storage capacity: maximum €100,000 per installed MWh.

Application Process. Applications must be submitted through the MySMIS2021 electronic platform. Comprehensive guidelines and explanations for completing the funding request can be accessed within the platform.

This program offers an excellent opportunity for businesses to invest in innovative energy storage solutions, ensuring a sustainable and efficient energy future. Don’t miss the chance to secure funding for your energy storage projects!

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the relevant section of the website of Ministry of Energy.

6. Swiss Funds within SME Eco-Tech Program for Romanian Companies

The SME Eco-Tech program is expected to run until June 2029.

More info about these non-refundable funds are available on the Romanian Government website relevant section.

7. National Recovery and Resilience Plan. 28,5 Billion Euro as Non-Refundable Funds Granted in PNRR Romania

The PNRR Romania is part of the Next Generation EU initiative, a significant financial package designed to support economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan offers non-refundable grants for:

Digital Transformation: Funding for digital infrastructure, e-government, and digital skills development.

Green Transition: Support for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation.

Social and Territorial Cohesion: Investments in education, healthcare, and regional development.

More info about the projects financed with the non-refundable funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan are available on the website of the Ministry of European Funds and European Projects in Romania.

Tips for Maximizing Your Chances of Securing Non-Refundable Funds

Develop a Solid Business Plan: A clear, detailed plan is essential for demonstrating your project’s feasibility and impact.

Stay Informed: Follow updates from the Ministry of European Funds Romania and other relevant organizations.

Leverage Expertise: Partner with consultants or agencies specializing in grant applications.

Be Persistent: Rejections are common; refine your approach and reapply.

Conclusion on StartUp Nation 2025, Non-Refundable European Funds, Norwegian Grants and PNRR Romania

By leveraging these funding sources and following expert advice, you can secure the financial support needed to turn your business vision into reality. Don’t miss out on the chance to grow your business with the help of these game-changing grants!