Greek Tourism Sector to Benefit from 2014-2020 NSRF Funds

Greece’s tourism entrepreneurs will be able to tap into three new National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) operational programs to be announced next month, according to finance ministry planning.

The three keys areas of focus of the NSRF 2014-2020 program are startups, the upgrade of tourism infrastructure and facilities, and boosting employment opportunities for higher education graduates.

According to ministry planning, interested parties will be able to apply for the first round of funding in December through to March, with effect in June 2016. Funds must be put to full use within 24 months of allotment date. 

More specifically, funding between 30,000 euros and 300,000 euros will be distributed to micro and small tourism sector enterprises so that they can modernize facilities, improve the quality of services, enrich products and improve their position in the domestic and international tourism market.

In order to be eligible, tourism sector businesses should focus on the upgrade of building and other infrastructure, energy/water saving interventions, expanding products/services offered, including accessibility for people with disabilities,  as well as ensuring infrastructure and service certification.

Other areas include total funding amounting to 50 million euros (broken down in two cycles) for destination promotion to target markets, which includes consultancy fees and wages for existing or new staff.

The ministry estimates that some 600-700 micro and small enterprises will benefit from the NSRF funds.

Indicatively, the new funding program also aims to boost employment opportunities for the following professional fields: doctor, dentist, veterinarian, physiotherapist, biologist, psychologist, midwife, lawyer, architect, engineer, surveyor, chemist, agronomist, geologist, forester, oceanographer, designer, journalist, writer, interpreter, guide, translator, artist, sculptor, painter, cartoonist, engraver, actor, musician, dancer, choreographer, director, set designer, costume designer, decorator, economist, analyst, developer, researcher or business adviser, accountant or tax adviser, sociologist and social worker.