“We aim to help companies operating in the regions by encouraging them to form export-oriented clusters. Together, we will enable businesses to grow, discover new export markets or diversify them, and gain a foothold in them. In this way, we are creating more opportunities for Lithuanian business,” said Aušrinė Armonaitė, Minister of Economy and Innovation.
The potential applicants under the “Expo Cluster” measure are cluster coordinators, which can be one of the cluster companies (SME), a business association, or a chamber of commerce, industry and crafts. Partners can be members of the cluster, i.e. SMEs.
The maximum amount of funding available for a project is EUR 320 000 and the minimum is EUR 170 000.
Under the “Expo Cluster” measure, investments will be made to strengthen SME partnerships and clustering, for the SME network to participate in international networks and international exhibitions, to engage in international partnerships, to develop marketing strategies, and to purchase export manager services.
“The funding of export-oriented clusters will further boost Lithuanian exports which grew significantly last year despite the challenges faced. It will also further strengthen the position of Lithuanian companies in the international market and allow more Lithuanian products to be sold,” said Iveta Paludnevičiūtė, Chancellor of the Ministry of Economy and Innovation.
Applications are accepted by the Innovation Agency and can be submitted by 7 August 2023.
The Ministry of Economy and Innovation has prepared a plan of almost EUR 1 billion to strengthen the Lithuanian economy. Around EUR 365 million has been earmarked for business, innovation and investment, EUR 320 million for the digitisation of the state and business, and EUR 268 million for the greener economy by the end of 2023.
The full terms of this call can be found on the EU investment website.
